| photography by andie furber |
When you visit The Breakers in Newport, Rhode Island, it's easy to be swept away by the gilded ceilings, marble staircases, and lavish entertaining rooms. But while everyone else was admiring the opulence, we found ourselves lingering somewhere else entirely.
| photography by andie furber |
Tucked behind the scenes, the staff quarters told a different story. The rooms were simpler, quieter, and designed for function over grandeur, yet they possessed a warmth and authenticity that felt more in line with our own taste.
| photography by laurie furber |
It was there, among the hardworking furnishings that had stood the test of time, that we spotted beautifully understated cabinets and kitchen islands. We couldn't stop thinking about them.
The cabinet's paneled doors, divided glass upper cabinets, and practical brass latches felt as relevant today as they must have over a century ago. Nearby, the substantial worktable—with its thick top, generous drawers, turned legs, and open lower shelf—was built for daily use, not display. Together, they embodied everything we love about timeless design: honest materials, thoughtful craftsmanship, and beauty born from utility.
The original kitchen island from the Breakers staff quarters.
The original cabinet from the Breakers' staff quarters.
These pieces became the inspiration for our Newport Reclaimed Wood Cabinet and Newport Reclaimed Wood Kitchen Island, reimagined for modern homes while honoring the utility and design language of the originals.
Our interpretation of these timeless designs.