Lazy Fish

by Liz Dowling

The first time I wandered into Lazy Fish, it was a tiny storefront tucked under the National Hotel.  I somehow managed to kill 45 minutes in this 400 square foot jewel box of a store, browsing (and buying) multiple things for my home and for myself.

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I got to know Carolyn Collins, the owner, quite well after that visit because I kept coming back for more!  With a background in art from Providence College and ten years (1986-1996) working for Crate & Barrel as a visual designer, Carolyn has an eye second to none.

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Carolyn moved to DC with Crate & Barrel to expand the company in the south, then returned to New England a year later to grow their furniture division.  Carolyn chose Block Island to open Lazy Fish in 1996 because it was close to her home and, since she is practically a native (her first trip to the island was with her mom at 6 months old), it was a natural fit.

Tom McAleer painting

Tom McAleer painting

Starting a business on Block Island has allowed Carolyn to create an environment where she can easily be with her four children.  The seasonal aspect of her store also gives her time to reflect and come back with new energy to Lazy Fish every year.

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Block Island has definitely been an influence in her life and her career.  Carolyn features a lot of local BI artists at Lazy Fish and loves her casual life by the sea.

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North Light Fibers hand made yarn, Stuart Littlefield’s steel sculptures and Charlotte Herring’s lino-print cards are all local Block Island products.

Mike Bryce painting

Mike Bryce painting

Carolyn loves layering old with new when she is on buying trips.  She has old vintage pieces mixed with new textiles, art, ceramics, furniture, home decor, jewelry and clothing at Lazy Fish.  It is a feast for the eyes!  Good luck getting out of here empty handed.

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Claireware (above) is one of her favorite gifts.  Created by a RISD graduate, Claire Weissberg creates an amazing line of beautiful, functional ceramics.

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Love these Thomas Paul pillows!

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I’ve got my eye on you…..

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Carolyn loves involving her kids in the store too.  They join her on treasure hunts and buying trips and add a wonderful dimension to the merchandise she sells.

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Lazy Fish is my go-to store on the island when I need a gift, artwork, new jewelry for a night out or ANYTHING for my home.

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and don’t forget the fish!

Carolyn Collins

Carolyn Collins

Written up in the New York Times and the Fodors Guide, Lazy Fish is a must on your next trip to Block Island!

235 Dodge Street, Block Island, Rhode Island 02807

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the wry home

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8 comments

Melinda Sweet July 25, 2014 - 11:38 am

A wonderful amalgam of Lazy Fish’s goodies, and a great photo of Carolyn!
Melinda sweet

Missie July 26, 2014 - 7:18 am

Liz
Thanks for hi lighting Lazy Fish! I remember the shop fondly with it’s many creative and unique goodies! My Bryce painting is an all time favorite and I am eagerly awaiting another trip back to bi for more shopping!

Traci July 26, 2014 - 8:57 am

Amazing write up Coco! It’s all true- you have an eye like no one else. Your store is a treasure trove to explore.
Can’t wait for my next visit!!

Rob Dundon July 26, 2014 - 11:05 pm

I think it’s great giving Carolyn as nice a write up as any I’ve seen. She’s a great shopkeeper and has a great eye for the classic pieces as well as those with a modern twist.

Rob Dundon
RJD Designs

Kathleen Martin July 27, 2014 - 7:43 am

Wonderful article, beautiful pictures! Love Caroline’s store. Great picture of Caroline!

K. Martin
Block Island

Amy harden July 31, 2014 - 5:29 am

Another virtual tour! Thought you were trying to keep block a secret?!,

Elizabeth Dowling July 31, 2014 - 8:36 am

The secret is out my friend 🙂

karen bresolin September 7, 2014 - 7:47 pm

Take a deep breath and explore – so many unique gems to discover – my cottage is swimming in Lazy Fish treasures! Thank you Carolyn

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