Location: Newport, Rhode Island

Architect: DiLeonardo International (Architect on Record) and DDA (Interior Architecture)

Interior Design: Dawson Design Associates

Hotel Group/ Developer: Ajax

Construction: Haynes Group (PS) and Baystate Services (GR)

Photography: Mike Schwartz

Hugging Newport’s Goat Island, the luxury hotel designed by Dawson Design Associates offers an immersive New England experience. This conversion project repositions the hotel within the luxury sector, celebrating the area’s rich history and natural beauty. Known for its Gilded Era mansions and sailing community, Newport inspired a design emphasising simplicity, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to the land and sea.

Intimate spaces feature quintessential Newport charm, with crisp white tongue and groove ceilings, weathered wide plank oak floors, and hand-woven braided carpets. A collection of over 200 commissioned weavings from New England artisans adorns the hotel, reflecting the region’s rich legacy of weaving. The lobby, reimagined to create intimate, inviting spaces, showcases a hand-crafted driftwood whale and a carved 8’ wood nautilus, symbolising nature’s balance.

Public spaces are interconnected through a classic colonnade wrapped in white T&G wood, blending contemporary and rustic elements. Tiered decks and gardens extend the indoor experience outdoors, leading to a historic lighthouse. Historical photos and a weaving incorporating salvaged sea garbage behind the front desk highlight the island’s cultural significance.

Guestrooms feature custom weavings and QR codes sharing the weavers’ stories. Secondary lobbies and regional art break up the journey through the hotel’s three interconnected buildings. The design’s colour palette, derived from native grasses, hydrangeas, and sandy beaches, enhances the residential flavour of the 30 distinctive suites.

Dawson Design Associates’ project weaves together nature, history, and community, creating a mindful, visually stunning environment that celebrates New England’s spirit and beauty.