Among many other celebrity homes, one of the most famous homes is the “Holiday House” or the “High Watch,” in Watch Hill, owned by the American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift.
At just 35, Taylor Swift has built a veritable music empire, and she is one of the world’s most famous music artists. However, she has more to her name than her awards and iconic songs. Well, the Pennsylvania-born American singer also has a vast real estate portfolio. One of the most talked-about estates she owns is “High Watch” in Rhode Island, and it has become a part of her lifestyle and songs, too.
Learn more about the iconic 11,000-square-foot (1,000 sq. mtr.) home, which inspired her 2020 song, “The Last Great American Dynasty.”
Where is Taylor SWIFT's Rhode Island House?
Taylor Swift’s home is situated at the highest point in Watch Hill, Rhode Island. The home is considered expensive because of its historic location and the area it covers. It is a Colonial-style seafront mansion that includes a private beach, too.
It features 700 feet of shoreline overlooking Little Narragansett Bay. She even wrote the song “The Last Great American Dynasty” for her 2020 album “Folklore,” about the home’s former owner, Rebekah Harkness.
Swift then purchased the home for $17,750,000 in 2013. She said:
“I got the house when I was in my early 20s as a place for my family to be together.”
The location does not have any nightlife, no scene, no paparazzi lurking around. The location encouraged Swift to purchase the home: privacy, no outside noise, and proper security.
The History Behind the Iconic Mansion
The iconic mansion was built in 1929-1930 for the Snowden family (owners of an oil company), who named it “The Holiday House.” It was then inherited by the Standard Oil heiress Rebekah Harkness in 1954.
The mansion was then purchased by the Watch Hill Associates in 1972 with the intention of demolishing the home in September 1974. The land was supposed to be used to build smaller homes.
Later in 1974, it was purchased by Gurdon B. Wattles, who further renovated the house. He then named it High Watch because of its location.
The mansion was best known for Swift's famous Fourth of July parties. The soiree included several celebrity besties, such as Gigi Hadid and Selena Gomez, to celebrate America’s birthday.
What Does Taylor Swift's Rhode Island House Look Like?
Taylor Swift bought her Rhode Island house in 2013 for $17.75 million. The home was originally built between 1929 and 1930 by a prominent Philadelphian architect. The house sits on over 700 feet of shoreline and has eight bedrooms, 10.5 bathrooms, and 8 fireplaces - all that screams luxury. There is also a makeshift volleyball court in the backyard.
Here’s detailed information on the visuals of Taylor Swift’s magnificent mansion -
Exterior Architecture
The exterior of the mansion is a stunning example of Victorian-era architecture, with turrets, gables, and a wraparound porch. The exterior also includes manicured gardens, a private beach, and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and Watch Hill Harbor, with added New England charm.
Oceanfront Setting
There are several rooms in Taylor Swift’s opulent home that offer an uninterrupted oceanfront view. The backyard area facing the ocean has a private beach, which also includes a barbecue and dining space.
Key Design Features
Key design features include -
- A pool house
- Fitness center
- An extensive driveway
- A massive swimming pool
Inside Taylor Swift's Rhode Island Home
Taylor Swift’s Rhode Island home has 8 bedrooms, 10.5 bathrooms, and a private beach with a notice: “I know you were trouble when you walked in. NO TRESPASSING!” The mansion has multiple living room areas and reception rooms, with a huge lawn and a 700-foot private beach located within the proximity of 5 acres.
The huge mansion was more expansive than it is now. According to The Providence Journal, the estate earlier had a 2-story, 10-room wing on the East Side, which was later removed from the property.
Previous owner Rebekah Harkness expanded the house in the 1950s with 40 total rooms, which include 21 bathrooms and 8 kitchens. However, the next owners downsized the property to what it is now.
“The Last Great American Dynasty:” The Song that Mythologizes Rhode Island’s Iconic Home
Taylor Swift's song “The Last Great American Dynasty” is inspired by the mansion’s previous owner, Rebekah Harkness. Harkness was a wealthy heiress known for her glamorous and unconventional lifestyle and Gatsby-esque ragers.
When Swift first visited the estate with the agent, she learned about Harkness, and the story fascinated her. She said that Harkness’ story resonated with her - both are wealthy, famous women living in the same house and becoming subjects of public gossip.
Taylor wanted to write a song about her for sometime, and eventually she used Harkness as her inspiration for the song “The Last Great American Dynasty,” for her album Folklore.
The Tayamerica Parties!
From 2013 to 2016, Taylor Swift hosted the annual Fourth of July at her Rhode Island mansion. Photos from the parties showcase her closest friends in matching American flag onesies. Some were even flashing peace signs in stars-and-stripes bikinis. The guests usually included Cara Delevingne, Gigi Hadid, and Karlie Kloss, in addition to her fellow music artists Selena Gomez and the Haim sisters.
How to Get Taylor Swift's Rhode Island House Look?
Taylor Swift’s Rhode Island home also serves as an inspiration for those who want a home just like hers. But it is important to note that the home was not intentionally designed by Taylor or publicly endorsed. Though the interior has largely remained private, you can create a similar aesthetic with these design ideas -
- Choose a soft coastal color palette.
- Mix antique and modern furniture.
- Add linen and natural textures.
- Use oversized windows and light fabrics.
- Incorporate warm accents, such as brass, wood, and vintage decor.
- Decorate with books, art, and meaningful collectibles.
Conclusion
Taylor Swift’s Rhode Island mansion has a rich history, and that’s what makes it one of the most iconic celebrity homes. When Taylor first visited the mansion, she learned about the previous owner, Rebekah Harkness, a philanthropist and the talk of the town, especially because of her lavish parties and unconventional lifestyle. The mansion is not open to the public and has a private beach with a board saying NO TRESPASSING.
