The island sanctuary of Martha’s Vineyard, during its sun-drenched summer months, embodies a distinct ethos. This atmosphere is cultivated by the craftsmanship evident at the annual Agricultural Fair in August, the leisurely rhythm of morning strolls through local farmer’s markets, and the simple, profound delight of a perfectly prepared lobster roll by the sea. Boston-based AD PRO Directory designer Nina Farmer embraced this quintessential New England summer spirit as a guiding principle.
The Architectural Search
Farmer kept these cherished elements of a quintessential summer on Martha’s Vineyard close at mind during the house-hunting process for a long-standing client and close friend, a distinguished Harvard professor. The objective was to find a vacation residence on the island that would resonate with this specific ambiance.
A Found Haven
For six years, the family had been renting in a beloved neighborhood on Martha’s Vineyard, a locale that masterfully blended coastal charm with a rustic character. Their search for a permanent residence that fulfilled all their desires, however, proved elusive until they discovered a 4,900-square-foot compound in Edgartown. Tucked away behind a mature tree canopy, this property offered the coveted proximity to Main Street and was just across the road from the beach.
Up-Island Ambiance
The home possesses an “up-island feel,” as described by Farmer, characterized by a vernacular distinct from Edgartown’s more conventional coastal aesthetic. This style is defined by historic residences, nautical influences, and the signature weathered, silvery-gray shingle siding. Farmer notes that the western part of the Island features more farmhouses, rolling hills, and classic stone fences, contributing to a more pastoral and timeless charm.
A Transformation in Progress
The picturesque setting, the impeccably maintained grounds, and the inviting wraparound porch, coupled with a spacious on-site guest home perfect for accommodating numerous visitors, initially masked an incongruity: the exterior’s inherent character stood in contrast to the interior’s rather subdued aesthetic. “I knew we could tweak and fix that,” Farmer expressed, confident in her ability to elevate the interior spaces.
After living in the home for a season, the homeowners recognized that “no walls needed to be moved,” yet it “lacked warmth and that Vineyard feeling.” Once the summer season concluded, Farmer began the comprehensive redesign, removing all existing furnishings to start anew.
A Sense of Place
Farmer’s design philosophy centered on creating interiors that felt deeply connected to the locale. “A lot of these Vineyard houses are passed down from generation to generation,” she explains. “It’s the same families and the same people doing the same things every summer, things that are steeped in history. We wanted the way you’re experiencing the island outside the house to be the same inside the house.” This sentiment guided the selection of pieces that were both intentional for the region and rooted in its history and culture.
The design incorporates elements that echo the island’s natural beauty and history. A painting by local artist Jennifer Christy adorns the living room fireplace, while ceilings are clad in reclaimed oak sourced from nearby barns. The front hall features bluestone tile that mirrors the exterior stonework, and all rugs throughout the home are hand-knotted, adding a layer of artisanal quality.
The abundant wood tones are artfully contrasted with carefully selected pieces, such as a vintage 1960s cocoon pendant in the primary bedroom and a Nickey Kehoe sofa upholstered in Pierre Frey fabric in the living room. The color palette thoughtfully engages with the hues and saturation of the surrounding natural landscape, featuring moodier purples, deeper blues, and grounding greens.
The guesthouse, a two-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath structure connected to the main home by a winding stone path, was treated with a similar design sensibility, referred to by Farmer as a “junior version” of the primary residence. Its inclusion of a private kitchen and an office space ensures its versatility, transitioning seamlessly from a welcoming accommodation for guests to a personal retreat for the homeowners.
“The first weekend after we moved in, we stayed in and made dinner with the doors open,” recalls the homeowner. “I breathed a sigh of relief.”
Business Style Takeaway: This project exemplifies how thoughtful interior design can transform a vacation property into a resonant extension of its location and the owner’s lifestyle. By integrating local artistry, reclaimed materials, and curated vintage pieces, the residence achieves an authentic patina that enhances both personal comfort and the enduring appeal of a luxury coastal retreat.
Source: : www.architecturaldigest.com