Explore the Stunning Vanderbilt Mansion: A Lavish Coastal Gem in New England
In Newport, within the American state of Rhode Island, stands an opulent abode that belonged to the Vanderbilt family—a lavish testament to industrial America during the late 1800s. Join us as we explore this magnificent Gilded Age estate!
Upon reaching Newport Island, you will find New England In Rhode Island, the impressive outline of The Breakers stands out prominently. Perched atop a cliff with views of the Atlantic Ocean, this grand estate was constructed from 1893 to 1895 and serves as a prime illustration of the extravagance exhibited during the Industrial Aristocracy era of the Gilded Age—the prosperous period marking the late 19th century. th century in the United States.
The Breakers, an enormous undertaking by Richard Morris Hunt
Constructed within just two years, this extensive estate belonged to Cornelius Vanderbilt II, who was the grandson of the railroad tycoon. In 1893, the inheritor of America’s wealthiest family resided here. United States Commissioned Richard Morris Hunt, renowned for designing the facade of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the base of the Statue of Liberty In New York, he aimed to construct his second home. The task was straightforward: to develop a dwelling on the petite island of Newport, situated between Boston and New York , which could compete with the finest estates in Europe. During this period, the island served as a summer retreat for America’s elite social class, including the Vanderbilt family, who were among many wealthy individuals from the East Coast seeking respite there. The grandeur of the undertaking mirrors the immense fortune possessed by the family: a sprawling mansion covering 1,200 square meters across five stories, featuring 70 rooms and architectural elements evocative of Florence and Rome during the Renaissance era.
Within The Breakers, indulge in unparalleled opulence.
Primarily constructed using marble obtained from top-tier quarries in Italy and France, the residence was lavishly outfitted without regard for cost. Renowned artisans were enlisted to carve, paint, and adorn every area within the home. Intricate frescoes grace the ceilings, complemented by mosaic flooring and walls upholstered in silk, enhancing the dramatic ambiance of each chamber.
The entryway is already an impressive showcase of architecture. Spanning three stories, it features marble Corinthian columns and a coffered ceiling decorated with frescoes reminiscent of those found in Venetian palaces. Abundant natural light pours in from large windows facing the sea, illuminating the grandeur of the area.
The other rooms also exude splendor. Within the ballroom, where the Vanderbilt family hosted lavish gatherings, every element was designed to awe visitors: exquisite wooden floors, French crystal chandeliers, and Italian marble mantelpieces. Moving on to the dining area, this space comfortably seats approximately forty people at an enormous table illuminated by radiant lights from gilded chandeliers. Another noteworthy chamber is the library. Its intricately crafted mahogany shelves hold a selection of ancient texts, offering a quiet ambiance that stands out against the opulence found throughout the rest of the residence. It was here that Cornelius Vanderbilt II frequently engaged in business dealings and socialized with prominent individuals.
A stunning natural landscape overlooking the Atlantic Ocean
Beyond its extravagant design, what truly distinguishes The Breakers from other Newport mansions is its prime location. Situated on the southernmost part of the island, atop a cliff, it provides unobstructed ocean vistas. The grounds feature gardens laid out in a geometric style reminiscent of classic French designs, complete with neatly kept hedges bordering white gravel pathways. As you reach the lawn’s periphery, stone stairs lead downward to rocky shores where crashing waves perpetually pound against them—a sight that gave rise to the estate's evocative moniker, "The Breakers."
Before you visit The Breakers, here’s what you should keep in mind.
Since opening to visitors in 1948, The Breakers has become a key attraction in Newport. It offers several guided tours allowing you to delve into the Vanderbilt legacy. One such tour leads you through the principal chambers of the estate—from the opulent Grand Salon to the intimate Billiard Room. A different excursion reveals hidden passageways beneath the manor, showcasing areas once used exclusively for servant activities ensuring smooth operation above ground. These subterranean spaces resemble an intricate network below the residence, complete with tunnels crisscrossing underneath almost all sections of the building along with advanced facilities (such as electricity, plumbing, elevators) which were quite revolutionary at the time. Additionally, guests have free rein within beautifully maintained garden grounds offering splendid vistas across Narragansett Bay towards the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Breakers 44 Ochre Point Avenue
Newport, RI 02840
https://www.newportmansions.org/mansions-and-gardens/the-breakers/