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Artist's Dream Home in Rhode Island Now on the Market

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/1 .. ream-home-in-rhode-island-now-on-the-market.html
  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, December 10th 2025 at 17:22 GMT by Boston.com

Artist’s Dream Home in Rhode Island Now on the Market

Boston.com’s recent real‑estate spotlight brings the eye‑catching “artist’s home” in Rhode Island to the attention of buyers who crave a blend of historical charm, expansive space, and creative inspiration. Though tucked away in a quiet corner of the Ocean State, the property has been lauded for its striking architecture, generous acreage, and a storied past that ties it to the world of visual arts. Below is a concise overview of the home’s most compelling features, market context, and the background of its former owner that make this listing a unique opportunity for collectors, creatives, and luxury home buyers alike.

1. Location & Setting

Nestled in the picturesque town of North Kingstown, the property sits on a sprawling 3.5‑acre parcel that overlooks a secluded pond and offers panoramic views of the Atlantic coastline. The house is conveniently situated a short drive from Providence (approximately 20 minutes), the state’s cultural hub, and only a 35‑minute walk to the historic Newport waterfront. The surrounding neighborhood is characterized by a mix of well‑maintained colonial homes, tree‑lined streets, and a vibrant community of artists, musicians, and educators that make it a prime spot for creative minds.

The plot’s generous frontage allows for unobstructed light, both from the natural pond and the south‑facing terrace that captures sunrise over the water. A meticulously landscaped garden, complete with a koi pond, native shrubs, and a small pavilion, creates a private outdoor sanctuary for studio practice or quiet reflection.

2. Architectural Highlights

Built in 1925, the estate is a striking example of American Craftsman architecture with Art‑Deco embellishments that were later added in the 1930s. The two‑story frame is clad in cedar clapboard and boasts an asymmetrical roofline punctuated by a series of gabled dormers. Key features include:

• 12,000 sq. ft. of living space – an expansive layout that comfortably accommodates 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, and an array of specialized rooms.
• 18‑foot high ceilings in the living and dining rooms, creating a grand, airy atmosphere.
• Original hardwood floors that have been carefully restored and polished to showcase their rich grain.
• Stained‑glass skylights that bathe the interior in warm, colorful light—an homage to the artist’s creative spirit.

One of the most striking aspects of the property is the artist’s studio, a former loft space that has been lovingly preserved and upgraded. The 4,500‑sq‑ft studio features:

• Plaster walls with built‑in easels and workstations for large canvases.
• Natural lighting from skylights and a large south‑facing window that offers a view of the pond.
• High‑ceiling walls and a mezzanine level designed to accommodate sculpture and mixed‑media work.
• A gallery wall with original art pieces created by the former owner, providing a direct link to the space’s artistic heritage.

3. Interior Amenities

Beyond the creative quarters, the home is packed with luxurious amenities:

• A 12‑car garage that includes an attached workshop and storage area, ideal for a collector’s automobile collection or as an additional studio space.
• Indoor pool with a custom‑designed stone finish, complete with a hot tub and built‑in massage jets.
• Home theater with a 4K projector, surround‑sound system, and a dedicated bar area.
• Wine cellar that can accommodate up to 3,000 bottles, equipped with climate control and custom shelving.
• Smart home integration that controls lighting, HVAC, security, and entertainment systems via an intuitive app.

The master suite sits on the second floor and includes a private balcony overlooking the pond, a walk‑in closet, and a spa‑style bathroom with a freestanding soaking tub and a rain shower.

4. The Artist’s Legacy

The property’s former owner, Eleanor “Ellie” Van Buren, is a celebrated contemporary painter known for her vibrant seascapes and large‑scale abstract installations. Van Buren, who earned a BA from the Rhode Island School of Design and has exhibited at the New Museum of Contemporary Art in New York and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, called this house her “studio and sanctuary.” In an interview with Boston.com, she described the home as a place where “the boundary between living and creating dissolves.”

The estate holds a small private collection of her works, some of which will be included with the sale. The artist’s influence is evident in the interior décor, with original canvases and sculptures still displayed throughout. For potential buyers, this unique provenance adds both cultural significance and a sense of continuity to the property’s identity.

5. Market Context & Price

The home is listed at $5.2 million, positioning it among the top tier of luxury real estate in Rhode Island. The price reflects the property’s size, location, and the added value of its artistic heritage. According to Boston.com’s market analysis:

• The average sale price for comparable 5‑bedroom homes in North Kingstown is around $3.8 million.
• Properties with creative spaces and artistic provenance typically command a 15–20% premium.
• The property’s location within the New England coastal real estate market keeps it competitive against similar listings in Newport and Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Potential buyers are encouraged to act swiftly, as the listing has already attracted interest from both local and out‑of‑state collectors and investors. A private tour is scheduled for the first week of January, and a full disclosure package—including property surveys, tax assessments, and an appraisal report—is available upon request.

6. The Broader Significance

This listing is more than a luxury home; it represents the intersection of art, architecture, and nature. Boston.com highlights how the property can serve as a catalyst for future creative endeavors, whether that be as a private residence, an artist residency, or a gallery space. The house’s ability to accommodate large-scale works of art, its robust studio facilities, and its scenic surroundings make it a living testament to the enduring relationship between environment and creative output.

For buyers who value heritage, innovation, and a sanctuary that nurtures artistic expression, this Rhode Island estate offers a once‑in‑a‑lifetime opportunity. Whether you’re a seasoned collector looking for an investment that carries cultural weight or a creative professional seeking a space to bring your visions to life, the former home of Eleanor Van Buren stands as a beacon of inspiration in the real‑estate market.