Last updated: June 18, 2024
Place
Beacon Hill House
Olmsted Archives
Quick Facts
Location:
Newport, RI
Significance:
Olmsted Designed Estate
OPEN TO PUBLIC:
No
In 1909, railroad magnate Arthur Curtiss James purchased a new estate, named Beacon Hill House, and four years later, hired Olmsted Brothers to design a garden inspired by the medieval secret gardens. Leading design on what would be known as The Blue Garden, Frederick Law Olmsted Jr would work for two years to carry out James’ vision.
The secret, Italianate style garden is surrounded with low walls covered in vines. A blue tiled pool and blue plantings are where the garden got its name, and set on a hill surrounded by rock outcroppings, the garden is laid out in a cruciform shape. The central axis is highlighted by water features and rows of planting beds, and potted plants were artfully arranged to enhance the garden’s classical effect.
Source: "Beacon Hill House," The Cultural Landscape Foundation
For more information and primary resources, please visit:
Olmsted Research Guide Online
Olmsted Archives on Flickr
The secret, Italianate style garden is surrounded with low walls covered in vines. A blue tiled pool and blue plantings are where the garden got its name, and set on a hill surrounded by rock outcroppings, the garden is laid out in a cruciform shape. The central axis is highlighted by water features and rows of planting beds, and potted plants were artfully arranged to enhance the garden’s classical effect.
Source: "Beacon Hill House," The Cultural Landscape Foundation
For more information and primary resources, please visit:
Olmsted Research Guide Online
Olmsted Archives on Flickr