Design Secrets I Borrowed from Nantucket Inns (That Work in a Regular Home Too)
One of my favorite things to do when I travel—especially to a place as special as Nantucket—is take mental notes of the little details that make the spaces feel so cozy and thoughtfully put together. There’s something about those charming island inns that gets it just right. They’re warm, timeless, and filled with character. And the best part? You don’t have to live by the sea to bring that feeling into your home.
Over the years, I’ve picked up a handful of design tricks from Nantucket stays that have found their way into my own home. And they’ve completely changed the way my spaces feel. Whether it’s a fresh stack of white linens or a little basket filled with hydrangeas, these small changes create that breezy, “I’m on vacation” vibe all year round.
Here are a few of my favorite design ideas to borrow—no ferry ride required.
Design Secrets I Borrowed from Nantucket Inns (That Work in a Regular Home Too)
1. Soft, Layered Bedding That Feels Like a Cloud
Think crisp white sheets, a linen duvet, and a quilt folded at the end of the bed. I love mixing soft textures and pale blues—it instantly makes your bed feel like it belongs in a coastal inn.
→ Try this blue trimmed sheet and pillowcase set, this classic white quilt, or this lightweight linen duvet cover for the full look.
2. Coastal Color Palettes That Instantly Calm the Room
I always gravitate toward soft whites, sandy neutrals, and hydrangea blues. Whether it’s a striped throw pillow, a new lamp, or a fresh coat of paint, these tones make your space feel light and calm.
→ I found this set of blue and white floral pillow covers and this beachy ceramic table lamp that give that perfect Nantucket inn vibe.
3. Vintage-Style Lighting That Adds Charm
Nantucket inns do this so well. Think warm brass sconces, glass lanterns, or even a sweet rattan table lamp. Swapping out lighting is one of the easiest upgrades.
→ I love this brass wall sconce and wicker bedside lamp—both are perfect for a seaside inn look.
4. Fresh Flowers in Every Room
A bud vase with garden roses on the nightstand or hydrangeas in the entryway? Yes, please.
→ These mini bud vases are perfect for scattering throughout the house. And I use this vase for fuller arrangements.
5. Woven Textures That Ground the Space
Baskets for extra towels, a rattan tray on the coffee table—these little touches go a long way.
→ I keep a similar rattan catchall tray on my dresser. This set of seagrass baskets looks just like the ones I’ve seen in coastal inns.
6. Artwork That Tells a Coastal Story
Sailboat watercolors, vintage Nantucket maps, or even a simple beach scene can give so much character.
→ I framed my vintage-style coastal photography and placed them in my dining room.
7. Little Luxuries That Make It Feel Special
A carafe of water by the bed, a folded robe, or a soft throw at your feet. These are the tiny things that feel like a treat.
→ I found this under-$30 water carafe set, this monogrammed robe, and this classic cotton throw that give a similar look.
8. A Signature Coastal Scent
One of my favorite ways to make a space feel peaceful. I rotate between clean linen, salt air, and soft citrus.
→ This sea salt & driftwood candle smells just like a Nantucket breeze, and this diffuser is so subtle and fresh.
9. Cozy, Intentional Clutter (In the Best Way)
Stack your favorite books, tuck a shell dish by the sink, or use a basket for casual storage. It’s those “lived-in” details that make the room feel personal.
→ This woven magazine basket and ceramic seashell dish bring that cozy inn energy into any corner of the house.
Leave a Reply