8 Stylish And Welcoming Outdoor Spaces From Rhode Island Homes
Rhode Island homes are known for their charming outdoor spaces that blend coastal vibes with New England character. From Newport mansions to cozy Narragansett cottages, these outdoor areas showcase the unique style of Ocean State living.
I’ve gathered eight stunning examples that might inspire your next backyard renovation or simply give you a glimpse into Rhode Island’s outdoor design aesthetic.
1. Coastal Charm
You’ll feel the ocean breeze just looking at this stunning Newport patio. White Adirondack chairs surround a circular fire pit, creating the perfect gathering spot for chilly evenings.
The weathered cedar decking extends toward unobstructed water views, while potted hydrangeas add splashes of blue and purple. Native grasses create movement in the landscape, mimicking the nearby waves.
String lights overhead provide a magical ambiance when the sun sets over Narragansett Bay.
2. Historic Garden Oasis
Hidden behind a colonial-era home in Providence’s East Side neighborhood, this garden retreat feels like stepping back in time. Brick pathways wind through meticulously maintained boxwood hedges and heirloom roses.
The centerpiece is a vintage wrought-iron table set beneath a pergola draped with wisteria. During summer months, the purple blooms create a fragrant canopy for outdoor dining.
Antique lanterns and period-appropriate plantings maintain the historical integrity while providing modern comfort.
3. Modern Waterfront Deck
Minimalism meets maritime in this sleek Jamestown deck. The homeowners opted for clean lines and contemporary furnishings that don’t compete with the panoramic bridge views.
Low-profile sectional seating in weatherproof gray fabric provides ample room for entertaining. An integrated lighting system illuminates the space after dark without light pollution affecting the stargazing experience.
The glass railing system was an ingenious choice—it preserves unobstructed sightlines while providing essential safety for this elevated deck.
4. Cottage Garden Retreat
Bursting with color year-round, this Little Compton garden showcases the homeowner’s passion for native plant species. Wildflowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds, creating a living tapestry that changes with the seasons.
A hand-built stone wall creates natural seating areas, complemented by a small lily pond that reflects the sky. The gravel pathways crunch pleasantly underfoot as you wander through this informal paradise.
My favorite touch is the repurposed driftwood sculpture that serves as both art and a habitat for beneficial insects.
5. Cliffside Entertaining Space
Perched dramatically above the Atlantic, this Watch Hill terrace makes the most of its breathtaking location. The homeowners worked with local artisans to create a custom bluestone patio that seems to float above the crashing waves below.
A built-in kitchen with weatherproof cabinetry makes outdoor cooking a breeze. The dining area features a massive teak table that can seat twelve for lobster dinners under the stars.
Nautical-inspired lighting fixtures complement the coastal setting without feeling clichéd.
6. Farmhouse Porch
Rocking chairs and sweet tea come to mind when seeing this charming farmhouse porch in Tiverton Four Corners. The wraparound design offers views of rolling pastures and distant bay waters.
Vintage milk cans repurposed as planters hold cheerful geraniums that pop against the white porch railings. A porch swing hung from exposed beams invites afternoon naps or morning coffee moments.
The homeowners preserved the original wide-plank flooring, applying marine-grade sealant to withstand Rhode Island’s variable weather conditions.
7. Zen Garden Sanctuary
Finding peace is effortless in this Japanese-inspired garden retreat behind a Barrington colonial. Carefully raked gravel surrounds strategically placed boulders, creating a meditative landscape that changes with the light throughout the day.
A small wooden bridge crosses over a koi pond where orange and white fish dart between water lilies. The covered pavilion provides shelter for yoga practice regardless of weather conditions.
Rhode Island’s coastal influence appears subtly through locally-sourced stones and salt-tolerant plantings that thrive in the bayside environment.
8. Rooftop Oasis
Urban living doesn’t mean sacrificing outdoor space, as proven by this ingenious rooftop garden atop a converted mill building in downtown Providence. Container gardening reaches new heights with raised beds producing vegetables and herbs year-round.
Custom weather-resistant furniture provides comfortable seating around a gas fire table that becomes the heart of evening gatherings. The industrial aesthetic honors the building’s history through exposed brick and steel elements.
Solar-powered lighting reduces energy costs while illuminating nighttime city views of the Providence skyline.
