When Katy Duckworth-Schachter approached the design of her historic home in Newport, RI, two words acted as her diving force: Chic and Cheerful. Taking the project on entirely by herself proved no small feat after moving her family’s address to Newport during the 2020 pandemic, as she needed to transition the space from an occasional respite, to a full-time residence: The outcome of which stands as a rewarding and visually exquisite accomplishment.

Serving as the Director of Development at the Allen Stevenson School, Katy splits her time between Newport, RI and New York City. Being constantly on the go with work, her husband, and their two sons, means that the family’s main address needs to provide senses of both serenity and joie de vivre. 

However, it wasn’t the ever growing lead times for furniture that sparked Katy’s inspiration to shop preloved pieces; she genuinely prefers that each piece tell a story, or ‘has a secret’ – as she would say with a wink and a laugh. Nearly all of the items filling the alluring abode were sourced from consignment companies, auction houses, and local vendors, imbuing the space with character and unique charm. Katy relies on luxury home consignment resources like        The Local Vault to give her home that one-of-a-kind look worth aspiring to.

The space is saturated with rich textiles featuring intricate patterns, bespoke and antique furniture, and art of various movements – from contemporary photography to antique portraiture, all gracefully threaded together with the wit and charm that embodies the Style Maker’s own persona. 

 

Katy Duckworth-Schachter, adorned in Newport-based designer CK Bradley’s latest collection, greets us at her home’s colorful entry. 

The playful dichotomy between her more traditional choices harmonizes seamlessly with her contemporary pieces. For Katy, an 18th c. sideboard and Lindsey Adelman chandelier paired together is a no brainer – and seeing the final result in her living room proves that the pair are indeed the perfect match. 

Chinoiserie and chintz strike a balance against a minimalist monochromatic print by Elsworth Kelly above the mantel. 

Here Katy’s Husband’s ancestral portrait cheekily juxtaposes a contemporary photograph by Larry Sultan.

The portrait was reunited with the family after a friend happened upon it at a New York City auction many years after select pieces from Katy’s husband’s ancestors’ estate were sold off. 

Ever the gracious hostess, a custom live-edge wood table surrounded by vintage dining chairs provide the perfect setting for entertaining.

Another family portrait – with a slightly more scandalous backstory, rests above the dining room mantel. The Vintage designer dining chairs featuring an Ikat print were a steal when purchased on consignment.  

Bordallo Pinheiro plates compliment the collection of pottery atop the buffet, which Katy lovingly refers to as “the artichoke farm.” 

Katy has mastered the art of layering: Through maximalist prints and minimalist fixtures, this sweet moment in her dressing room sets the perfect tone. 

Patterns and children play here in the boys’ recreation space.

Contemporary light fixtures and bold botanical wall coverings provide a sense of modernity, while the antique Gothic style chair and Persian rugs offer a nod to the past. 

Mixing various prints in the same color palette keeps this room feeling youthful and vibrant for the youngest members of the family. 

 

Written and Photographed by Samantha Curtis