NRF promotes and invests in the architectural heritage of the Newport community, the traditional building trades, and Doris Duke’s fine and decorative arts collections, for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of all.
As a leader in the preservation of early American architecture, NRF supports research and education in areas directly related to its collections and issues of critical concern to the field of historic preservation.
Visit Doris Duke’s art-filled mansion and enjoy panoramic ocean views from the extensive grounds. Open late March to November.
The Vernon House is a site for expansive story-telling, contemporary dialogue, and preservation trades skill-building.
Newport Restoration Foundation holds one of the largest collections of period architecture owned by a single organization anywhere in the United States.
Celebrate excellence in historic preservation efforts within the City of Newport, Rhode Island.
Live amidst history by renting one of our many historic properties.
Historic preservationists do not want to freeze time. Preservation is not about resisting change, rather it’s about managing change so that as communities evolve they do not lose their special places along the way. All old buildings – from the plainest barn to the most elaborate mansion, from a 1750s Georgian house to a 1950s ranch house – deserve to be preserved. This is how we hold onto our heritage and keep our community’s character.
Click to download our Historic Homeowner’s Toolkit for a comprehensive primer covering everything you wanted to know about preservation in Newport and Rhode Island!
Information about the history of house paint and about NRF's own historic colors (including sources for buying your own).
Want to learn more about Historic Home Maintenance? Check out NRF's recommendations for expert resources in common mistakes, National Preservation Organizations, vinyl, windows, books and more!
Check out this helpful, annotated list of our favorite books, articles and web links related to Historic Preservation and Architecture.
A helpful review of building styles between 1620 and 1840.