Encompassing nearly six acres of walled private grounds, yet within walking distance of Newport Harbor and downtown, Oakwood is revered as one of the finest historic properties of coastal New England. Many of the area’s most distinguished families have been entertained in this incomparable Italianate-style home.
HISTORY: Following the Civil War, the property was owned by Mary Alida Astor, daughter of William Backhouse Astor. In 1872, the Rhode Island architectural firm of George Champlin Mason & Son was commissioned to design the main living room and music room. Later, in 1875, the Boston firm of Sturgis & Brigham added the tower and kitchen wing. The current owners have completed a magnificent and thorough renovation of the estate. Gardens, walkways and grounds have been transformed to illuminate their natural beauty. Manor house amenities now include exceptional, state-of-the-art mechanicals and systems to ensure an environment of absolute security and unsurpassed comfort.
THE GROUNDS: An invitation to Oakwood begins at a private gravel drive flanked by stands of 150-year-old oaks and split-leaf beeches. Gold leaf, coach lights, and stained glass adorn the wrought-iron entrance gates. Contained on the property are a Wimbledon-standard lawn tennis court, a croquet lawn, ornamental fountains and statuary, a large reflecting pool abundant with tropical palms and koi, and a stunning mosaic swimming pool with slate patio surround. A woodland trail circles the estate, while a latticed arbor draped in wisteria encloses a six-hole PGA-standard putting green.
HANDSOME INTERIORS: No less attention has been devoted to the 24-room interior of Oakwood. The grand formal rooms are dressed for high style living with 56 original hand-painted Chinese panels in the dining room, parquet floors, a Baccarat chandelier in the gilded music room, custom finishes, beautiful millwork, carved mantels, glazing, and hand-painted inset panels. Entertaining options range from the grand ballroom-scale drawing room to the more intimate reception and sitting rooms. A gourmet kitchen featuring a full complement of Viking appliances and an amply equipped butler’s pantry offers plenty of space for hosting large catered events while simultaneously possessing a stylish air. The separate breakfast room is the perfect venue for passing quiet and relaxed mornings. Other spaces include a refined study with a bay window, spacious office areas, and a handsome family room with home theatre. The solarium has lovely views of Oakwood’s east gardens, and a 64-foot screened verandah overlooks the new mosaic swimming pool. Throughout, French doors access the incredible grounds. Among the seven family bedrooms is a master suite offering a luxurious bedroom, dressing rooms, and two bathrooms as well as a magnificent roof terrace. From this terrace, the outlook is Oakwood at large-an estate of exceptional privacy, pampering, and privilege. The home's custom draperies and fine furnishings are included.
THE LOCATION: Newport, Rhode Island, just 90 minutes from Logan International Airport in Boston, 30 minutes from Quonset Airport, and 3 hours from Manhattan, is home to numerous cultural and sporting attractions including world renown jazz, folk, and classical music festivals, the Newport International Film Festival, the Tennis Hall of Fame, golf, yachting, and polo.
