A Wine Cellar to Call Your Own

It’s harvest time for your local Vineyards…does that have anyone else daydreaming about their very own wine cellar? What a luxury! I have found a couple local homes on the market right now that boast their own wine cellars and tasting rooms, cheers!

Swansea, MA

This stunning waterfront property at 222 Bay Point Road in Swansea, MA has 12,000 square feet, 4 beds, 8 baths and a 3000 bottle wine cellar and tasting room along with every other amenity you can think of! An oasis like enclosed pool area with fountain and 8 person hot tub. A gym, ballet barre studio and 6 person sauna. Outside, 1.2 lush acres roll down to the water. Launch your kayak from the floating dock on protected Cedar Cove! Asking $2,750,000.

South Kingstown, RI

At 2625 - B Commodore Perry Hwy South Kingstown, “Indian Beacon” is a magnificent hilltop estate in Matunuck Hills. With 5 beds and 6 baths, it is nestled on 2.64 acres with distant panoramic views of Block Island Sound. Built in 1953 for the heiress to the Ballantine Beer fortune, this home's exterior is solidly built of granite and brick, with a slate roof. Beautiful stone patios front and rear. Gorgeous natural landscape, flowering gardens, and stone walls. Views of, and access to, pristine Wash Pond… a wonderful place to canoe, kayak, or fish. The lower level has a lovely family/tavern room with stone fireplace, billiards room, full bath, wine tasting room, workshop, and access to an integral 3 car garage.

To view these or similar homes please contact Lisa Pagano at lisa.pagano@mottandchace.com or 401.447.9505.

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3 Waterfront Homes

A home on the water is a dream come true and we have no shortage of water here in our lovely little ocean state. Below I have put together 3 homes with waterfront property currently on the market right now. Read on for a little slice of heaven.

South Kingstown $7,495,000

This incredible property at 527 Ministerial Road in South Kingstown is a lake front family compound in Matunuck Hills and is also called “Long Pond Farm.” Long Pond is a freshwater lake teeming with large-mouth bass and perch for excellent fishing, ideal for kayaking, paddle-boarding and swimming. The 1929 stone-end colonial is 6400 square feet and has 8 bedrooms as well as an outdoor sleeping porch overlooking the lake. There is a private 6 bedroom, c.1900 Adirondack-style guest house on a hill overlooking the lake with three fireplaces. An additional charming one bedroom, one fireplace cabin is found on the lake shore. Original 6 stall horse barn, generous fenced paddock, a network of riding/walking trails, chicken coops, aviary, vegetable garden, a private Sporting Clays area, miles of stone walls and open fields all surrounded by 51 private acres. Truly a once in a lifetime offering!

Warwick $2,795,000

This architectural beauty at 28 Narragansett Bay Ave in Warwick is nestled on 1.78 park-like acres. The epitome of elegant coastal living that preserves the feel of yesteryear with every modern amenity. A complete architect renovation was done with designer details, custom millwork and high end finishes throughout. The main level exceeds every expectation for entertaining whether it be intimate or grand scale. The well appointed kitchen features a large center island, a gas fireplace, a built-in breakfast banquette and gathering area. Generously proportioned living/dining rooms exude character and each have gas fireplaces. Soak up the sunlight and stunning views in the breath taking enclosed screened porch with vaulted ceilings, the East facing farmers porch or the sun parlor that feels like a jewel box. Private Beach access is the cherry on top!

North Kingstown $1,500,00

In Historic Wickford Village at 90 West Main Street sits this waterfront property built in 1833 for Captain John Gardiner. The house is on 1.94 lush acres with an inground saltwater pool surrounded by curated landscaping, lending itself to happy entertaining. First floor oversized rooms with high ceilings and beautiful original wood floors with lots of natural light and windows. 1st level primary bedroom option with attached bathroom and office/study/studio or oversized closet space. Lots of closet and storage space that is rare in homes from this era. Discover a 3rd floor surprise widow’s peak with a stunning view and private, quiet space.

To view these or similar homes please contact Lisa Pagano at lisa.pagano@mottandchace.com or 401.447.9505.

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Cozying Up For Fall

Have you noticed the nights are getting chillier and even the sunny afternoons have a crisp feeling these days? We can mourn the fading summer days or we can embrace the new season with hope and joy…and pumpkins, of course! I have put together some autumnal eye candy to get you inspired and excited about celebrating the change of season, inside and outside of your home.

Fall Stoop

Decorating your porch, patio or stoop for Fall is just about as easy as it gets. Pick up a few pumpkins and gourds of different sizes and a colorful mum or two and set them out front, done! It could be a symmetrical display or just a cheerful pile, either way is festive and welcoming. A seasonal wreath always looks good as do decorative lanterns.

Fall Mantle

You can keep your fall mantel very minimalist and still make a statement. A few spooky additions like the skulls above make it fun, still classy, and the kids will love it!

Fall Table

Natural elements always help a table look sophisticated. This time of year there is no shortage of flowers and grasses, dried or fresh, that you can make use of. Small gourds, pinecones, and candles all add to the ambiance.

Fall Texture

Now is the time to bring out all your cozy blankets and throw pillows. Especially those richly hued and extra chunky pieces. Not only do they look good, they feel great. Your furry friends will probably appreciate the cuddle factor too!

I hope you enjoy ushering in this new season in your home and find time to relax and enjoy the little things.

Please contact Lisa Pagano at lisa.pagano@mottandchace.com or 401.447.9505 for all of your real estate needs.

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Fall Fun in New England

The weather may not be cooling off too much just yet but that doesn’t mean you can’t start enjoying all those classic fall New England traditions. Apple picking, hay rides, pie baking, corn mazes, pumpkin picking! There are so many gorgeous, local, family run farms that you could check out a different one every weekend. I have put together a few favorites from around the state to get you started on your RI Fall Bucket List.

Barden Family Orchard, North Scituate

Barden Family Farm was founded in 1931 and has been in the Barden family ever since. They began full time farming in 2005 and today offer a wide range of farm grown produce at their farmstand as well as cider, donuts, and honey. If you are looking for a true farm experience you can pick your own apples, peaches, berries, pumpkins and even flowers! This is a great excursion for the whole family. They are open every day August 1- October 31. You can head to their facebook page to see exactly what is open for picking on any given day: https://www.facebook.com/bardenfamilyorchard

Salisbury Farm, Johnston

Salisbury Farm was founded in the 1800’s and has been owned and operated by 5 generations of the Salisbury Family. In the summer they offer pick your own strawberries and raspberries. This time of year you can pick your own tomatoes and sunflowers as well as shop their fresh produce at their farm stand. Salisbury may be best known for their iconic corn maze. Every year for the past 23 years they have created a unique and challenging maze that is fun for young and old alike. You can also take a hayride, pick your own pumpkin and pet and feed the animals! Check out their Facebook page before you head out to see what is happening today: https://www.facebook.com/salisburyfarm

Escobar Farm, Middletown

On Aquidneck Island, Escobar Farm is another family run business that offers a unique yearly corn maze, hayrides, and pumpkin picking. You can even tag a Christmas tree to be cut and picked up later in the year!

Jaswells Farm, Smithfield

Started in 1899 by Nicholas Jaswell after immigrating from Italy, the farm is currently being run by the fourth generation of Jaswell’s. They offer pick your own apples, and have a large farm stand where you can purchase their fresh produce, donuts, cider and fresh baked pies. You can go to their website to reserve a time slot for apple picking: https://www.jaswellsfarm.com/picking-schedule.html

Whatever your plans, I hope you have a wonderful weekend and find some fun ways to welcome in the new season!

Please contact Lisa Pagano at lisa.pagano@mottandchace.com or 401.447.9505 for all of your real estate needs.

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Green Spaces at Home

What is better than slicing up a ripe and juicy tomato freshly picked from your own backyard? How about picking a basket of your own grapes or, one of my very favorites, arranging a vase of flowers snipped from your own garden beds? Summer may be winding down but the growing and harvesting season isn’t over yet and perhaps you need some inspiration to plan next years garden or just think about the possibilities of what you could do with your own green spaces. I’ve put together some outdoor eye candy below for daydreaming.

Providence

This incredible estate in Providence at 460 Rochambeau Ave has over 3 acres of gorgeous grounds and winding paths, complete with multiple greenhouses and arbors covered in twisting grapevines. Asking $7,900,000

Little Compton

9-11 Brookside Lane in Little Compton is a Farmcoast compound with a 1750 Farmhouse and barn/ garage/ apartment on over 2 acres. A gorgeous, established perennial garden with stone pathways and a picket fence is the stuff dreams are made of! Asking $1,350,000

South Kingstown

35 acres of peace and tranquility in South County complete with a magical stone “playhouse” that boasts an outdoor fireplace and is situated next to a grape vine arbor. 480 Gravelly Hill Road, Asking $1,395,000

Barrington

In Barrington, 11 Bluff Road, also known as the Samuel Peckham house, is surrounded by lush perennial beds and a private stone patio on over half an acre. Asking $829,000

Wishing you a wonderful end-of-summer, hoping you are able to enjoy the fleeting magic this time of year has to offer.

Please contact Lisa Pagano at lisa.pagano@mottandchace.com or 401.447.9505 to view any of these or similar homes.

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Spotlight on East Greenwich

East Greenwich is one of the really lovely towns here in Rhode Island to live, work and play. Nestled right in the middle of the state, not too far from the beaches, Providence, or even Boston. There is a beautiful waterfront with ample boat parking and a public dock for fishing and eating. The classic and charming main street is lined with shops, boutiques, bars and restaurants. There is something to eat, see and do pretty much all year long as well as fantastic schools and a wonderful sense of community.

History

East Greenwich was incorporated on October 31, 1677 and is the 8th oldest town in the state. The town has a long and rich history, with no shortage of historic homes and buildings throughout. A couple of interesting ones are the East Greenwich Odeum and Windmill Cottage. The Odeum was originally known as The Greenwich Theatre and was founded in 1926 as a Vaudeville House. Today you can catch a classic movie, play or live music show at the Odeum, which is a 100% volunteer run theatre. Windmill Cottage was originally built in 1818. It got its name in 1860 when famous American poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, attached an actual windmill to a house for his good friend, George Washington Greene. He gave this unusual house to his friend as a gift. Windmill Cottage is still standing today.

Events and Community

Every summer you can enjoy Main Street Strolls in East Greenwich. They are on Thursday evenings from 5-8 pm and feature live music along with the lively shops and restaurants along the street. Each one has a different theme; “Dogs on Main”, “Arts on Main/ Chalk the Block.” “Music on Main” and “Taste of EG” are still coming up this summer! In past years, the Association of East Greenwich has held free outdoor movie nights throughout the summer at Academy Field as well as various parades and concerts. Nearby State Park; Goddard Park, holds a Farmers Market every Friday from 9am-1pm from May through October.

If you are thinking about calling East Greenwich home you have a lot of incredible options! I have highlighted a couple of properties currently on the market below.

Old Farm Middle Hollow Neighborhood

This Manor style home at 3 Old Farm Road is truly turn key and has 4 Bedrooms and 5 Bathrooms. Asking $2,400,000

Quail River Neighborhood

35 River Run was designed by Architect Richard Morris and sits on 2.15 lush acres. 4 Beds, 6 Bathrooms and over 6,000 square feet including a sunroom with an inground pool! Asking $1,050,000

Please contact Lisa Pagano at lisa.pagano@mottandchace.com or 401.447.9505 to view any of these or similar homes.

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Historic Homes

As one of the original 13 colonies of our country, Rhode Island has a long history and with it many incredible historic properties. It takes a special kind of homeowner to embrace the history, quirks and stewardship that come with owning a Historic Home. There is also incredible, unique beauty to be found living in one of these special homes, each with their own story to tell. I have put together a handful of Historic properties currently on the market in Rhode Island. Are you interested something new (old) and completely unique?

George C. Mason House in Newport

The George Champlin Mason House in Newport, RI was the private estate of Newport’s most famed native architect whose works include The Eisenhower House, Chepstow and the Naval War College. This 1873 Victorian Mansion is currently operating as a boutique hotel. Aptly named “The Architect’s Inn” it features 11 en-suite guest rooms, innkeepers accommodations and a modern commercial kitchen. The main level of the mansion has been meticulously restored and offers a library with wood burning fireplace, a large formal dining room serviced by a butlers kitchen and a parlor that opens through double doors to a gracious covered porch. Impressive design elements include an elaborate gable ended porch, Swiss chalet style- filigree wood trim, carved fireplace mantles and intricate parquet flooring. The tranquil grounds are comprised of lush gardens, a terrace for alfresco dining and beautiful specimen trees. 31 Old Beach Road, Newport. Asking $4,500,000

Windover Mansion in Watch Hill

This one-of-a-kind home is less than a mile from Atlantic Ocean beaches, Watch Hill's quaint seaside village, and the distinguished Ocean House. Built in 1890, the Powers family saved this structure from being demolished and had it moved from Massachusetts to Watch Hill in 1915, where it was reconstructed into the “Windover” mansion. Later known as the “Lion Gate Inn,” this property has 19th Century character with modern appeal. This is an ideal spot for a family retreat, “corporate” get-away, or for an investor with a taste for history and the knack for making all things possible. The owner's living quarters offers privacy that captures the essence of graceful simplicity that stands the test of time. Absorb enchanting sunsets from a screened-in porch, one of the two decks, or throughout the kitchen and living areas. Luxurious master suite and an on-suite bedroom also have custom built-in closets. There is potential here for separate guest quarters, returning property back to its original grandeur, or to continue use for rental income. These much sought after apartments are tucked into and around the perimeter of the building and offer four 1-bedroom, 1-bath studios that come with a strong rental history. Plenty of spaces in this home to relax, work, and live! Come and be captivated by this turn-key opportunity, summer or year-round, located just minutes from downtown Westerly. 215 Watch Hill Road, Westerly. Asking $3,395,000

Rumstick Point Victorian

Magnificent Rumstick Point Victorian with Deeded Water Access! Built in 1887, Architectural elegance of the past meets every modern amenity in this stunning 5 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath home set on over an acre of idyllic manicured grounds. The lofted front porch and fireplaced foyer with majestic spiral mahogany staircase greets you with the very definition of a grand entrance. Beyond that a stunning Ian Thompson designed eat-in chef's kitchen with flawless custom inlaid cabinetry, gorgeous granite countertops with slab marble backsplashes and Wolf and Subzero appliances will thrill any gourmet. A chic adjacent dining room has French doors overlooking an expansive deck that runs the full length of the back of the house, perfect for al fresco dining and seamless indoor/outdoor living and entertaining. An elegant living room with wood burning fireplace leads into a charming den with yet another fireplace, custom shelving, and glass doors that open to a delightful screened porch. Ascend to the second floor where you will find a primary suite with gas fireplace and spa bathroom complete with steam shower and jetted tub. This floor has two additional bedrooms as well as a full bathroom with laundry. The third floor offers two more bedrooms and full bath. In addition, a guest cottage with open floorplan and full bath presents endless potential for in-laws or a separate office. Walk your kayak out to Smith's Cove and live every day like vacation in this truly turnkey one of a kind gem! 298 Rumstick Road, Barrington. Asking $1,998,000

Period Colonial in Warwick

1800 Colonial combines charm of the past with present day amenities. Updates include siding, windows, heat, central air-conditioning, sewers, etc. 8 fireplaces, beautiful grounds, incredible stone walls, stream, 2 driveways, fabulous location…prior law office/ family home. Zoning allows multiple uses for land and property. 4365 Post Road, Warwick. Asking $1,300,000

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Please contact Lisa Pagano at lisa.pagano@mottandchace.com or 401.447.9505 to view these and other Rhode Island homes.

Beauty Blooms

I’ve talked before about the ease and joy of growing your own flowers in a cutting garden. Maybe you started one this year and have more blooms than you know what to do with! Or maybe you can’t pass up all the beautiful flowers this time of year at your local market (Trader Joes and Whole Foods always have a fantastic array to choose from!) Either way I thought it might be a good time to talk about arranging all of that gorgeous color with some tips and tricks to help your bouquets stand out and last longer.

When to cut your flowers? Cut in the early morning. The day is not yet hot and the flowers have had a night of cool air and morning dew. Their stems are filled with water and will be firm to the touch. As the day wears on and the sun comes up, flowers start to dehydrate. They wont last as long inside if cut when hot and stressed.

How to Cut? Use Sharp Snips or shears. Cut at a 45 degree angle, this provides a larger area for water intake. Bring a vessel of water with you outside. This doesn’t have to be the vase you plan on displaying your flowers in, just a container of cool water that you can immediately immerse the stems in as you go. Remove all of the foliage that will be below the water line. This helps slow down bacteria growth in the water which will extend the life of your bouquet. Cut your stems long, right above a set of leaves. You can always make them shorter if necessary once arranging them in your vase.

What to Cut? I have mentioned before that fantastic cutting flowers are Zinnias, Cosmos and Dahlias as they are all easy to grow and cutting them will encourage more blooms. It is always nice to add in other stunners for texture and color like Hydrangeas, Sunflowers, Daisies, and Roses. You can also round out your arrangements with leafy greens. Look around your yard; Hosta leaves make a beautiful addition, as do many different herbs. Basil, mint, lavender, lemon balm will all look (and smell) beautiful with your flowers!

Arranging your Bounty. I would encourage you to have fun playing around with your options. Don’t worry about having the perfect vase. A simple glass jar or ceramic pitcher can make a beautiful statement. You could cluster several small jars or bud vases together to make a tableau. If you have large vessels and enough flowers to fill them, by all means, make a masterpiece! Think about the colors you are using. Monochromatic bouquets can be very visually pleasing and peaceful. If you are feeling playful, put together a riot of color!

Shopping When shopping for cut flowers to arrange remember to include some extra greenery.  Eucalyptus can add a lot of interest and texture and there are many different kinds to choose from. Also; ferns, ivy and lemon leaf are great options. One of my go-to favorites for store bought flowers are Alstroemeria, also known as Peruvian Lilies. They come in all shades and colors all year long, with strong sturdy stems and a very long shelf life. If you change the water often they could last you a couple of weeks!

I hope you fully enjoy the rest of this gorgeous growing season and find peaceful moments in the beauty all around you; both inside and outside of your home.

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Please contact Lisa Pagano at lisa.pagano@mottandchace.com or 401.447.9505 for all of your Real Estate Needs!

Maximalism and Color

You have probably heard of Minimalism before. It has been a trend in the home design and decor world for quite a while and encourages us to pare down to the bare essentials; keeping our living spaces clean and clear and somewhat sparse. While clean and clear are never bad things, you may be ready for something a bit more comfortable, easy and exciting. Say Hello to Maximalism! Maximalism encourages you to use your space in the boldest way; welcoming in a range of patterns and colors, large displays and collections, comfy furniture and lots of artwork. A huge foundation of Maximalism is the abundant use of color. I’ve collected some inspiring examples to spark your creativity below!

Bold Wall Color

Using a bold wall color will anchor your space and give you a dramatic canvas for your artwork and other accent pieces. Whether you are going with paint, wallpaper or a raw material like brick they will all work to make that statement and help your space feel cohesive and warm.

Gallery Wall

A Gallery Wall is a welcome addition to any Maximalist space. There really aren’t any hard and fast rules, you don’t need to worry about coordinating frames, colors or subject matter. Just fill your wall with memories that make you happy and images you love!

Book Lovers Rejoice!

Hurray, there is no need to pare down your collection or keep boxes of books hidden in your garage anymore! Bookshelves of all shapes and sizes work well for displaying your library and you can also keep stacks on side tables throughout your home. The wonderful thing about books as décor is the spines and jackets add interest and pops of color to your space while also being completely functional.

The most important thing to remember about Maximalism is that it’s not about perfection. Surround yourself with beautiful things that you love and create a haven in your home.

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Please contact Lisa Pagano at lisa.pagano@mottandchace.com or 401.447.9505 for all of your Real Estate Needs!

At Home with Natural Elements

Spending more time outdoors these days might have you thinking about bringing that relaxing natural vibe to some of your indoor spaces. Incorporating natural elements into your home design is a pretty easy and foolproof way to warm up any room. I have put together some ideas and inspiration below to get you started!

Textures and Textiles

A simple place to start is with something like a natural fiber rug. Some popular options are jute, sisal, sea grass and hemp. They each have pros and cons and determining which works best depends on the space you want to use it in. For example, Jute is imperfect by nature and will add an instant earthy feel to your space. It is also very soft but less durable so you may want to use it in a medium to low traffic area (not as a front entryway rug.) Sisal, on the other hand, is very durable but not as soft underfoot but makes a great high traffic area rug (but maybe not your living room lounge on the floor spot.) You can also layer rugs for a cool, relaxed look.

Jute Sisal

Another place to add in natural texture besides your floors are your walls. There are really endless options for decorating with woven art. Baskets, wall hangings, macramé are all easy, low commitment options for mixing things up.

Wood

Adding warm wood is a pretty simple way to bring a natural element in. Besides your run of the mill wooden tables and other necessary furniture think about a unique statement making piece. Use reclaimed wood or driftwood to make a lovely mantle or add driftwood to a mirror for raw texture.

Plants

Of course we cant forget the plants! This may be the easiest and most statement making way to bring the outdoors into any space. For those of you whose thumbs may be less than green, faux plants are actually making a big comeback. You can find very reasonably priced and realistic looking options at many stores these days.

Go ahead and try something new in your space, experiment and have fun!

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Please contact Lisa Pagano at lisa.pagano@mottandchace.com or 401.447.9505 for all of your Real Estate Needs!