Sneak Peeks: Nantucket Surprise

By Maria LaPiana

If you’re a steady reader of New England Home, then you know that the editors who produce our house articles do an incredible job. They have a gift for showing beautiful spaces at their best—and for sharing the stories behind them.

A case in point is an article in our upcoming Capes & Islands issue: It features a top-to-bottom, high-low interior design project in Nantucket. The alchemist in this story is designer Charlotte Barnes, whose talents were put to the test by a couple in a hurry. Having already gained the trust of the owners of a majestic captain’s manse, she barely flinched when they asked her to furnish the whole 6,200-square-foot house in just under five months. Barnes rose to the occasion by transforming the home—from painting every inch of wall space, to curating a smart and playful mix of nautical finds along with fine antiques and pedigreed artwork. The process was all consuming, with minimal input from the clients due to time constraints. The couple took a leap of faith, while Barnes held her breath for the final reveal. How did they like it? You’ll have to read the issue [on newsstands June 11] to find out!

Tall and narrow windows bathe the casual breakfast area in natural light.

Photos by Michael Partenio

Designer Charlotte Barnes mixed things up in the living room, with furnishings that give the vintage home a modern twist.

Barnes chose complementary Quadrille fabrics for all the rooms in the house.

An artfully painted floor respects the home’s historic past.