Tour Inside The 1875 Rhode Island Carriage House Built For Barnaby’s Castle
Standing proudly just steps from Broadway in Providence, Rhode Island, the 1875 Barnaby’s Castle Carriage House is a rare architectural gem that embodies both history and imagination.
Built in the ornate Second Empire style, this carriage house was originally constructed as part of the grand estate belonging to Joseph Banigan and later the eccentric industrialist and showman Jerothmul Bowers Barnaby.
Today, the Carriage House is one of the most striking remnants of that opulent era—a fusion of historic craftsmanship and modern creativity that captures the spirit of Providence’s Gilded Age.
At first glance, the Carriage House’s design immediately calls attention to its 19th-century heritage. The mansard roof, tall dormer windows, and stone-trimmed brick façade evoke the romance of the French Second Empire style, which flourished in America during the late 1800s.
Once used to store horse-drawn carriages and house stable hands, the building has since been reborn as a vibrant gallery space and residence. Its transformation honors the past while welcoming the energy of contemporary urban life.
Stepping inside, visitors are met with a space that feels both historic and refreshingly modern. The first floor has been meticulously reimagined as a gallery and creative workspace. Large windows allow light to flood the interior, illuminating the original wood beams and brick walls that speak to the building’s 19th-century craftsmanship.
The open layout makes it ideal for exhibitions, design studios, or artisan workshops. A compact kitchenette and half bath provide convenience without compromising the structure’s historical integrity. Toward the back of the building lies a more private section suited for storage, an artist’s studio, or a small workshop—an echo of its original utilitarian purpose, now adapted for modern creativity.
The staircase leading to the second level reveals another side of the Carriage House—a surprisingly spacious and elegant city apartment. The atmosphere here shifts from the industrial to the intimate, blending loft-like openness with classic architectural detail.
The centerpiece of the living area is a grand, circular medallion window that floods the space with soft, natural light. Its intricate design recalls the opulence of Barnaby’s original mansion next door, while framing views of Providence’s historic West Side.
The living area’s high ceilings and exposed beams lend a sense of grandeur, while warm wood floors and exposed brick create a cozy and inviting feel. Every corner of the residence tells a story: the blend of materials, the craftsmanship of the moldings, the thoughtful balance between preservation and modernization.
The open-concept design keeps the space airy and light-filled, yet the two private bedroom suites—each with an en-suite bath—ensure comfort and seclusion. This thoughtful layout makes the Carriage House as practical as it is inspiring.
At the heart of the home is a chef’s kitchen that seamlessly merges form and function. A large island bar stands as the focal point, inviting gatherings and conversations. Surrounding it are wood cabinets, sleek stone countertops, and high-end stainless steel appliances. This space feels both luxurious and lived-in, a perfect reflection of the building’s new life as a sophisticated urban residence.
Throughout the upper level, the interplay of textures—exposed brick, polished wood, and industrial metal—creates a sense of depth and character that feels timeless. The historic bones of the building remain visible, grounding the modern design in authenticity. Every element, from the preserved beams to the restored windows, tells of a careful restoration that respects the original purpose of the structure while celebrating its evolution.
The location of the Carriage House enhances its appeal even further. Nestled in Providence’s vibrant West Side, it offers immediate access to a rich cultural scene filled with fine dining, cozy pubs, boutique shops, and live entertainment.
The area, known for its artistic spirit and historic charm, reflects the same energy that defines the Carriage House itself—a blend of the old and the new, the stately and the creative. With downtown just a short walk away, and easy access to the train and interstate, this property captures the essence of urban living while preserving a deep connection to Rhode Island’s architectural heritage.
Today, the 1875 Barnaby’s Castle Carriage House stands not merely as a relic of the past but as a celebration of artistic rebirth. It embodies the best of both worlds—where the romance of Victorian architecture meets the freedom of modern design.
Whether admired as a piece of Providence’s history or appreciated as a modern creative sanctuary, this one-of-a-kind building continues to inspire, reminding all who visit that history, when lovingly preserved, can be as alive and dynamic as ever.
