Ever since this spread of designer Richard FitzGerald ‘s Cape Cod home appeared in Design New England Magazine, I’ve been dying to share the images! As I know and have blogged about the photographer, Michael J. Lee, I asked him right away for permission to share his gorgeous photos of this beautiful home. And now I can finally post them!
Mr. FitzGerald is an old school interior designer. Based between Massachusetts and Florida, he’s had the kind of career that doesn’t require lots of marketing and promotions. He was inducted into the first class of the New England Design Hall of Fame in 2007. His work has appeared in House & Garden, House Beautiful, The Boston Globe and Cape Cod Life, among other publications. FitzGerald also spent a number of years as the decorating editor at House Beautiful and the east coast/European editor for Architectural Digest. But, for all this, when I posted about the Hall of Fame, I was unable to find any photos of his work online!! So, I was thrilled to finally see inside his personal space – his Cape Cod vacation home. Mr. FitzGerald is an avid collector and gardener and his house and gardens reflect his love of both.
This entry way of the house reminds me very much of Edith Wharton’s entry way at The Mount. It has a decided indoor/outdoor feel which smooths the transition from outdoors to in. The lantern hung from a vaulted, barn board ceiling feels very porch like. The iron and stoneware, garden frog and plants enhance this feeling.
How gorgeous is this combination of peach wall with the blue and white! The walls took their cue from the “ancestor” portrait and the blue and white is carried through the pottery and check on the chairs.
How adorable is this little sun room? One thing I find interesting is that the drapes are stationary – they can’t be pulled across the windows. As an aside, this is a great cost saver where an oppulent look is desired, but when privacy isn’t an issue .
The master bedroom opens up to the garden. The master’s master surveys his domain.
And the jewel like pool and gardens.
Mr. FitzGerald refers to himself as a “Jeffersonian” which is apparent in the classic proportions of the pool house. The glossy white with blue coved ceiling is stunning, isn’t it? And I love the pops of pink on the upholstery and plants. Easy and breezy.
Cape Cod vacation anyone??
Well, a big thanks to Michael J. Lee for sharing his beautiful photos of Richard FitzGerald ‘s home with us. You can view Michael’s website here.
Addendum for 2020
This original post was written in 2009. Richard FitzGerald passed away in 2018 at the age of 80. Mr. FitzGerald’s partner, David Webster, owner of the iconic Webster & Co. showroom at the Boston Design Center, just passed away this week, on July 5th. I never had the pleasure of meeting Mr. FitzGerald and when I wrote this post, I wasn’t aware that this was Mr. Webster’s home as well. I did know Mr. Webster, however, and I, along with the entire New England design community are mourning his passing. He showroom, which closed a couple of years ago, was an oasis of impeccable taste, luxurious brands and a welcoming spirit. Mr. Webster was always so kind to me. He was never too busy to stop and say a few words, sharing a moment from his life and asking about mine. Several years ago, when I had a digital magazine, Mr. Webster allowed me to create a beautiful vignette for one of my covers pulling from his gorgeous inventory. His generosity of spirit will truly be missed. But I know he and Mr. Fitz are together again and heaven is an even more beautiful place.
You may also enjoy: New England Hall of Fame Dinner 2015
how deliciously charming!! but, especially that wonderful bedroom just off the garden. perfection indeed.
That pool area is crazy beautiful! I'm ready to get on over there for a light summer supper and a champagne cocktail…
Oh my… that shot of the pool and garden with the folly or poolhouse in the background is so perfect and beautiful… like a dream! And the rest of his home is just so charming! Thanks, Linda!
Wow! It really is gorgeous. What a great pool that would be to spend the summer lounging around. Thanks for the eye candy. 🙂
What a beautiful house Linda!!!
xx
Anna
* Thank you for the DELICIOUS DESSERT to my light dinner of salmon n' salad~~~ it WOULD have all been even MORE PERFECT to enjoy it outside in one of those luscious, pink, upholstered chairs by the pool!!! SIMPLY SCRUMPTIOUS!!!
Best,
Linda in AZ
***** I just finished looking at Mr. Lee's portfolio, and I must say… well, simply stated, it's MAGNIFICENT!!!
IOU a-n-o-t-h-e-r "THANK YOU"!!!
Linda in AZ *****
I loved so much, the front with the statues, the painted ceiling, but the pool is what got me. I will be showing it to my landscaper tomorrow. I especially love the extra large versions of the pictures. I read on a 13 inch mac and love when I can pop them, Thanks, MB
WOW! LOve the entryway statues and the pool of course 🙂
This is a really beautiful house!
The giant ceramic toad is unexpected, brave and quite a hoot!
Tricia – Avolli
This home is so gorgeous. The garden, the pool, the curb appeal, I'd take the decor in another direction though.
I think that you need to be aware that this "blog" is copying several of your posts in their entirety. They have done the same with mine. I did not give anyone permission to do this so I am assuming that you didn't either. I am trying to notify all of the bloggers who have their work appear on this site. I think that it is unethical!
Go here to see:
http://decor.homecenterblog.net/
I was just going to compliment you on the photography!!!! haha!!! so beautiful – loved the back yard and the dining room = gorgeous!
My dream house! Well, I’d have to see the kitchen to be sure, but I think I’d be willing to compromise to get the pool house, yard, and bedroom! Thanks for sharing this gorgeous eye candy, Linda!
Hard to imagine the kitchen isn’t pretty great!
So delightful! What an inspiring home, thanks for spotting it and sharing it with us. Thanks to the photographer for sharing his beautiful images as well.
Thanks for reading Lisa!
What a timeless beauty. And that pool area!! Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for visiting Alyse! And I agree – the pool area is to die for!
So whimsical and full of charm. Thanks for this tour.
Whimsical is the right word Shannon!
Such incredibly beautiful images, thanks for sharing!
Thank you for visiting Amy!
My gosh beautiful home! Thank you for the tour!
Wow, what a gorgeous home and such inviting outdoor living spaces!
What a stunning home! The garden is stunning and I’m awfully fond of the sunroom. Thank you for the tour and for your personal note regarding Mr. FitzGerald and Mr. Webster.
Dear Linda,
What a treat it was to see Richard Fitzgerald’s Cape Cod home. I had the great pleasure of knowing Richard, as I managed the Leonard Hecker Showroom at the Decorator’s building on Boylston Street in the early 70’s. It was always such a treat when he shopped the showroom – it was more of a visit than a shopping spree. He was always very kind and personable, and always made time to socialize with the staff. He was my particular favorite to assist with his design needs. Working with him was not work, it was a complete joy. One of the kindest, nicest persons I have ever met. He will be sorely missed.
Elwyn Ferris
Hi Elwyn – thanks for sharing your lovely memories of Mr. Fitz. He was such an icon.