HOME: A couple makes a Watch Hill fixer-upper their own

In 2016, Varona and Dery started a twoyear hunt, looking for the “perfect little fixer-upper.” Knowing they would be doing the renovations themselves, they didn’t want the house to be too big; they also didn’t want it to be too far from the ocean. “Our agent found us home after home, but we kept getting out-bid for the most part by home-flippers with cash,” Varona explains. Finally, upon first sight, the couple was smitten with a three-bedroom with “good bones” that had been well maintained over the years, nestled in a quiet neighborhood. “We knew with a little TLC, some updates, and a vision, we could really turn it into our little piece of heaven near the beautiful coastline of Rhode Island. A dream!” The couple used granite on various surfaces including their wood-burning fireplace

“Fresh, clean, simple, organic, light, elegant, classic, and timeless are words I use to describe my decorating style,” says Varona

When it comes to the interiors, Varona draws inspiration from the nearby ocean – not in the tangible but drawing from the feelings the sea evokes in her. “Serenity, stunning, and calm. Everything in the home is based on those three words,” she says. “One might think of seashells, fish, and boats to decorate a home on the coast, but I wanted to really focus on those three words and items that would elaborate on the meaning of each.” Beaming with pride of ownership, she adds, “I wanted to create an atmosphere for us and our guests of that feeling I get when I walk along the beach in my home.”

GET RHODY STYLE

Homeowner Tina Varona shares favorite things about living in the Ocean State.

LOCAL ACCENTS “I love going into the local shops in Watch Hill, Newport, and Narragansett for unique items that add a personal, one-of-a-kind touch to the interior.” Her favorites include WH20 in Watch Hill and Lou Lou’s Decor in Newport and Tiverton.

OCEAN STATE OF MIND “Whether you want to emulate the Gilded Age of the Newport mansions or the seaside town of Narragansett, choose three words that best describe that feeling you get when you are in that space. Once you figure that out, decorating and designing all seems to fall into place. It takes away the stress of figuring out what to do, what colors to choose, or where to even begin. Once you determine all of your design needs based on that feeling, remember to keep your style cozy and classic, avoiding trends.”

PUPPY LOVE “We take our dogs to walk around the shops and visit the local establishments. They get a lot of attention, especially when we visit Watch Hill since we go there the most. They are a known staple along Bay Street!”

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