Windows to the World

A coastal Rhode Island estate brings the outdoors in.

A dream realized, this compound-style home in coastal Rhode Island sits atop a 50-acre stretch of farmlands and rolling hills overlooking the ocean. The site, with its commanding 360-degree views and high ocean winds, posed both challenges and opportunities for homeowner/designer Karen Clarke and trusted distributor Horner Millwork, who provided top-grade windows, exterior and interior doors, custom stairs, and more.

(Photography: Anthony Crisafulli)

“It is a beautiful but windy site,” Clarke notes. “We always envisioned being able to take advantage of the views of the ocean, pond, and farmlands.” By leveraging the flexibility of Kolbe product lines, Horner Millwork integrated the Ultra Series and ultra-modern VistaLuxe® line of windows to frame the diverse land and sea vistas, inviting nature to become an integral part of the living experience. 

The home blends traditional and modern architecture, with expansive floor-to-ceiling glass elements that create transparency throughout the home. A west-facing screen porch offers an open-air retreat with sunset views, featuring motorized Phantom Screens provided by Horner Millwork. The horizontal screens are a departure from typical vertical screens, and blend seamlessly with the overall design. Though clean lines create a sleek aesthetic throughout the home, fieldstone accents offer a touch of rustic coastal charm. 

(Photography: Anthony Crisafulli)

A protected courtyard, nestled strategically between the home’s distinct wings, features a contemplative garden filled with lush plantings and stone features sourced from the property itself. “In the garden, each window features an operable awning to allow ventilation in a protected area to avoid high ocean breezes on the other three sides,” shares Peter Landolfi, Architectural Sales Representative at Horner Millwork. “We take a lot of pride in the details.”

(Photography: Anthony Crisafulli)

A proponent of sustainable and green design, Clarke prioritized energy efficiency by implementing a geothermal heating system, 53-panel solar array, and opting for a glass package upgraded for energy performance. “We were very interested in being as green as possible,” Clarke states. To further preserve the beauty of the site, a barn on the property was reconstructed with its original cupola design and weathervane, remaining an iconic landmark visible across the landscape.

(Photography: Anthony Crisafulli)

(Window/Stair/Door Distributor: Horner Millwork, Home Design: Karen Clarke, Photography: Anthony Crisafulli)