While many associate Isabella Rossellini with the glamour of Hollywood, her true sanctuary lies on the East Coast – specifically in Bellport, Long Island. The Conclave actress collaborated with acclaimed architect Pietro Cicognani to design Mama Farm, a stunning rural retreat defined by its striking red exterior.
As the landscape begins its spring awakening, the home's vibrant facade serves as a reminder that red – though often considered a difficult shade to master – can be used with sophisticated restraint.
By pairing the bold hue with minimalist styling and earthy accents, Isabella has reimagined traditional front porch ideas. Pietro Cicognani shared a glimpse of the project on Instagram, noting, '[This is] looking out from the porch-like entrance of this renovated nineteenth-century bank barn in Bellport, covered in stained pine and barn-red clapboards.' While he didn't specify exactly which shade he used, Sherwin-Williams's Barn Red is a close match to the hue seen here.
To prevent the deep tones from feeling overwhelming, Isabella uses curated outdoor furniture and natural wood elements to create a sense of breathability. Even when decorating with red outdoors, the space feels calm – a lesson that applies even if you don't have a terrace as spacious as hers.
Shop the Isabella Rossellini-Inspired Edit
This low-slung, portable chair features a solid acacia-wood frame with a woven webbing seat and back. Simple, practical, and versatile, it complements porches of any color.
Ceramic has always been a go-to material, and this blue version adds a fresh take. Its rounded shape, crackled mosaic pattern, and smooth finish make it a standout addition to any porch.
Crafted from solid acacia wood in a natural finish, this midcentury-inspired chair is perfect for patios, balconies, or poolside living. The handwoven seat and back dry quickly, meaning rain will never be a problem.
Inspired by the turquoise planter on Isabella’s Porch, these features a faux ceramic finish while being weather- and UV-resistant. They stand up to year-round use without fading or cracking, bringing a stylish touch to any terrace.
It's not every day that you see a director-style chair on a porch, but then, not every porch belongs to Isabella Rossellini. To get her look, I love this fun yet uniquely stylish piece – featuring built-in armrests for optimal support all afternoon long.
These two panels are so easy to style. Use the back tab for a pleated look, the rod pocket for a gathered effect, or clip them up with rings, just like Isabella. They're perfect for adding style to a porch, patio, or any room in the house.
Jodi Peterman, CEO and owner at Elizabeth Erin Designs, suggests that a back porch should serve as an 'effortlessly put together' extension of the home. She explains, 'If I were styling a porch, especially one attached to a red home, I want to remember that balance is key. Red is a bold color all on its own, so to stay in balance, it would be best to select furniture and decor that is a little more understated. I would select items in neutral tones like warm wood, navy, black, or soft grays – think earth tone colors.' These shades harmonize with the red rather than competing for attention.
Achieving this look begins with intentionality. Isabella limits her porch to just three chairs and a few thoughtful planters, allowing the architectural tones to lead. 'Function is the key to how the space will flow,' Jodi adds.
'Too many pieces can make the space feel cluttered and restrict movement, which takes away from the relaxed vibe a porch should have.' She recommends focusing on a single conversation spot or a simple dining setup, perhaps adding an ottoman for versatility during these longer spring days.
The greenery is equally vital, acting as a natural bridge between the house and the budding garden. Jodi notes that plants should feel purposeful rather than like an afterthought. 'Large potted plants can act as natural dividers, especially if you use a rectangular planter or several tall, narrow ones. This gives a nice separation to the space and creates some privacy,' she says.
By layering heights and using hanging vines to save floor space, you can create a lush, Isabella Rossellini-approved sanctuary that feels perfectly in tune with the season.
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