Summer by the Sea: Architecture, Interiors and Photography on the Rhode Island Coast

Join us for a conversation with Thomas A. Kligerman to celebrate his new book, Summer by the Sea: Cottages from Watch Hill to Little Compton, an exploration of the history and style of Rhode Island cottages. He will be in conversation with collaborators Read McKendree and Nate McBride. The discussion will be moderated by Courtney Taylor and followed by a signing.

Thomas A. Kligerman was raised in Connecticut and New Mexico and spent years in France and England as a student. These experiences sparked his interest in the rich history of domestic architecture, interior design, and landscapes. He received his Bachelor of Arts from Columbia University and his Master of Architecture from the Yale School of Architecture. Before starting his own practice, he began his design career at Robert A. M. Stern Architects. Tom is the founding partner of Kligerman Architecture & Design, an award-winning architecture firm based on the 45th floor of 500 Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, overlooking Bryant Park. The firm is recognized for creating distinctive homes and buildings that balance architectural tradition with contemporary design, combining sculptural forms, refined detailing, rich materiality, and a strong connection to landscape. Working across the United States and internationally, the practice is known for its highly personalized approach, employing both traditional craftsmanship and advanced design technologies to create enduring and site-specific architecture. When not in the office, Tom travels extensively, paints watercolors, and serves on the boards of several charitable and educational institutions.

Courtney Taylor is Principal of Taylor Interior Design, a nationally recognized firm founded in Providence, Rhode Island, by her mother, Nancy Taylor, in 1967. Courtney joined the firm in 1998, spending nearly two decades working alongside Nancy before assuming leadership in 2017 and continuing the firm’s legacy of timeless design, thoughtful planning, and exceptional client service. Taylor Interior Design specializes in high-end residential interiors, as well as boutique hospitality, restaurant, and private club projects. Making her home in Jamestown, Rhode Island, Courtney draws continual inspiration from New England’s natural beauty and rich architectural heritage while designing sophisticated, highly personalized interiors for clients across the country and abroad.

Read McKendree is a Rhode Island based photographer who captures interior, architecture and hospitality projects across the globe.  His work is featured in many books and publications including Elle Decor, Veranda, Architectural Digest and House & Garden UK.  When not on the road, he likes to spend his time with his wife and daughter, outside in the woods or by the ocean, and almost always with a coffee in hand.

Nate McBride has led the practice he founded in the design of thoughtful residences, art facilities and civic spaces throughout the Northeast for more than four decades. Under his leadership, McBride Architects has created a body of work rooted in a deep appreciation for place, craftsmanship, and collaboration. The firm’s work, from custom homes to cultural institutions, reflects a careful response to both the landscape and the people who inhabit it.

Nate’s curiosity and empathy continue to shape both his architecture and his leadership. He believes that buildings should emerge from a deep understanding not only of a site, but the lives, aspirations, and daily rituals of those who will call it home. His standards are exacting, yet always in service of the work… and the work always in the service of the client. Nate believes that the greatest attribute of an architect is listening… listening to the landscape, the weather, the cultural context and listening to the needs, hopes and dreams of those who will live and work in the environments created.