Aloha Landing

Aloha Landing

Originally constructed in 1912 by a railroad magnate, Arthur Curtiss James, as a boathouse for his 218-foot yacht, Aloha, this heavy-timber Tudor-style building once stood as a distinctive landmark along Brenton Cove. Like many structures from the Gilded Age, however, it gradually fell into disrepair over the decades.

Nearly a century later, new ownership partnered with Mark Finlay Architects in an ambitious effort to restore the historic Aloha Boathouse and return it to prominence. Now named ‘Aloha Landing’ the restoration process was both painstaking and exacting: the structure was carefully dismantled stone by stone—each piece meticulously cataloged—while original timber elements were salvaged for reintegration into the new construction.

This remarkable recreation honors the spirit and craftsmanship of the original building while ensuring its longevity for generations to come. Conceived primarily as an entertaining space, the interiors draw inspiration from the refined detailing of a classic yacht. Walls are finished in crisp nautical white and accented with richly varnished cherry, evoking a sense of maritime elegance. As a final homage, the newel post incorporates an original compass salvaged from the Aloha, reinforcing the project’s deep connection to its seafaring past.

In recognition of its exceptional preservation effort, the Aloha Boathouse was awarded the Doris Duke Preservation Award in 2013.

Photography: Warren Jagger
Featured In: Newport Daily News, Fine Homebuilding, New England Home, Athome in Fairfield County, Cottages & Gardens, Newport Harbor Guide
Recognition: Doris Duke Historic Preservation Award, Athome A-List Winner