An Insider’s Guide to Nantucket by Victoria Hagan
The award-winning designer shares where to eat, shop, and find inspiration during Nantucket by Design week
For interior designer Victoria Hagan, Nantucket holds a very special place. Not only is she a part-time resident, but the island is also the perfect palette for her projects that juxtapose old and new to create luxuriously simple environments. This week marks the tenth year of Nantucket by Design—a celebration of art and design across mediums that benefits the Nantucket Historical Association—and so the designer is sharing just a few of her island favorites…
What do you love about Nantucket?
I have been coming to the island since I was a teen, and one of my first design projects was renovating my parents’s barn. My husband and I now have a home in Siasconset—on the eastern end of the island—and we love the natural beauty at every turn. Nantucket is so inspiring because of its location 30 miles off the mainland; the people who are drawn to the island appreciate the beaches as well as the well-preserved history and sense of place.
How has the cultural scene changed over the years?
The creative scene is constantly evolving and Nantucket by Design (July 14-17) is a particular highlight that’s sponsored by the Nantucket Historical Association. Artisans, craftspeople, designers, and landscape architects come together through panels, exhibitions and workshops to celebrate contemporary design and Nantucket’s unique heritage. But there are other cultural highlights throughout the year as well: The Christmas Stroll is magical and features crafts, concerts and a quintessential New England feel, the Nantucket Film Festival draws global talent, and the renovated Nantucket Dreamland theater presents shows and concerts. In August, the Boston Pops will be joined by the ultimate Bruce Springsteen tribute band Bruce in the USA at Jetties Beach, to support the Nantucket Cottage Hospital.
Where do recommend design-lovers stay on the island?
The Wauwinet on the northeastern tip of the island is perfect for watching spectacular sunsets. The property is historical yet luxurious and sits next to the Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge. The Harborview Cottages are another great choice because the harbor views are so special and yet it’s walking distance of Main Street and Straight Wharf.
Are there restaurants or cafes that you particularly like?
One of my favorite places is the bar at The Chanticleer in Siasconset that’s set in a rose-covered cottage. The Summer House at the beach in Siasconset is another highlight for fresh seafood in a beautiful setting. On the casual side, I like sitting at the counter at the Nantucket Pharmacy on Main Street. It’s the place for old-fashioned milkshakes. For great fried clams and lobster rolls the Straight Wharf Restaurant is a classic, while Claudette’s in Siasconset is the spot for sandwiches and coffee. I might be biased, but I like the Sconset Market for ice cream—the other places in town have incredibly long lines and this place is excellent.
Are there shops and galleries that shouldn’t be missed?
Nantucket Looms has beautiful handwoven throws, while the Lockhart Collection on Centre Street offers mid-century modern and Art Deco furnishings. Marine Home Center is an island institution and the place for bedding, bath, lumber, tools—you name it. For clothing, Erica Wilson on Main Street is another longtime Nantucket favorite. I love Rafael Osona Nantucket Auction which happens several times per year. I always find period American flags, mirrors, andirons, and more. I’m never sure what I’m looking for, but I always make incredible discoveries here. C&C Photography Gallery is another highlight.
Are there museums that stand out?
The Nantucket Whaling Museum is full of island history, while the Nantucket Lightship Basket Museum shines a light on both historic and contemporary basket weaving. The Museum of African American History preserves the stories of a robust 19th century community and also presents cultural programs and exhibits. For more sea history visit the Egan Maritime Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum on scenic Folger’s Marsh.
In terms of natural beauty, are there places that stand out for you?
Nantucket is special because all the beaches are public unlike many other islands and coastal destinations. I particularly like Bunny’s Beach that sits at the end of a long dirt road. The story goes that Bunny Mellon bought the property so that her friend, Jackie Kennedy, would come over from Martha’s Vineyard to paint. It’s a little yellow saltbox house that remains untouched.
We have to thank the Nantucket Preservation Trust and the Nantucket Historical Society for protecting the special character of the island. A houseguest once asked me: “does everything look the same here?” referring to the grey, shingle-style houses that are found everywhere. I gleefully replied “yes, they do!” all look the same and that makes it unique. The island has changed in that it attracts a younger group, but one that appreciates a quieter escape than the Hamptons. There is always a regatta, a golf tournament, a bike loop to explore and this appeals to families of all ages. The island is all about time spent with family and also time to pause and reflect. It’s the antithesis of busy New York.