Sometimes, even a house that’s the age of your typical college student can appear dated inside. This was the case for a three-bedroom, four-bath Colonial set on five acres in Arcadia, the rural village in Exeter. “My client’s house was stuck in a ‘90s time warp,” explains Michelle Parenteau, the Johnston-based interior designer/artist tasked with bringing this home into the present. “It lacked color, comfort, and functionality,” she explains. Parenteau cites things like oak cabinetry in a high-gloss finish and brass hardware, once trendy, but now making spaces seem antiquated.
Out went the brass ceiling fans with their frosted floral glass shades and in came a series of more streamlined switches, like the striking blue glass pendant that hangs over the kitchen pass-through window. Not one to be matchy-matchy, Parenteau employed a range of coordinating oceanic tones in accents like cobalt glass tile for the kitchen backsplash, and via art, tableware, linens, and furnishings in related hues to connect zones. Says Parenteau, “I help my clients embrace color and not to fear it.”
Connecting much of the open floor plan is a colorway of blue in a variety of shades that harken the sea, which appeals to the scuba-enthusiasts in the family. To resolve the comfort and functionality issues, the kitchen countertop was extended to provide room for two stools. In the living room, the beige fireplace got a facelift with mosaic tiles in a wavy pattern. To accommodate the homeowner’s live-in parents, the downstairs bathroom was completely gutted for their use. Thoughtful additions included heated flooring – perfect for cold winter mornings, a double vanity, and a large walk-in shower with seating. Parenteau was also in charge of choosing new furniture and brought in a dining table “big enough for entertaining,” along with other pieces, adding, “new lighting was installed in every space of the house.”
The family is thrilled with the updates. “It’s upbeat and fun,” begins the homeowner. And what makes them happiest about their home? “The colors and art; they are peaceful and homey.”
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you are likely familiar with the small secluded village of Arcadia, known for the Arcadia Management Area, the largest recreational area in the state. Another point of interest is the Tomaquag Museum. Located on the Exeter side, the museum, whose mission is to educate and promote thoughtful dialogue regarding Indigenous history, culture, arts, and connect to Native issues of today. Learn more at RIParks.com; TomaquagMuseum.org.
“I always stress the importance of using the highest quality materials. I feel it’s so important to support local vendors,” says Parenteau, who lists the following businesses for this project: The Blind King, Providence; Cardi’s Furniture & Mattresses, West Warwick; Jason Thomas Construction; John Camara, painter; East Coast Countertops, Cranston; J and K Lighting, Johnston; Lubrano Electric LLC, Rehoboth, MA; Rhode Island Tile, Cranston; Supply New England, Warwick; and Town Glass, Smithfield. Learn more about Michelle Parenteau at MichelleLeeDesigns.com.
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