Cozy Island Home Inspired by Martha's Vineyard

Photos in this post: New England Home

Before I start decorating or renovating a home, I try to imagine how I want it to feel in every season. Now that we have our new house, I’ve been daydreaming about life here as I pack up our old place and move belongings in. Those daydreams help guide design choices and set the tone for each room.

For autumn and winter, I picture our home as a warm, inviting bed-and-breakfast by the sea—a place you return to after a day of exploring to warm up by the fire. I imagine cozy corners for reading, soft chairs for listening to music, and spaces where friends can gather for hot spiced cider and small bites. The goal is comfort, layered texture, and atmosphere that feels both welcoming and a little elegant.

I already love calling this house home and I’m excited to make it our own. While looking for inspiration, I found a charming guest house on Martha’s Vineyard featured in New England Home. The photos sparked a lot of ideas for seasonal coziness and practical styling—everything from paint choices to lighting and textiles felt relevant to creating a home that invites you to linger.

Over the years I’ve shared on The Inspired Room that I study interiors from different sources and styles. Observing a range of design helps me refine my own sensibility and generate fresh ideas. When you look at thoughtful interiors, you notice details that translate well into your own space: scale, texture, color balance, and how functional elements are made beautiful.

Enjoy the photos in this post. Under each image I’ve noted a few design details that stood out to me—what I like to call the observation game. I’ve been sharing posts like this since The Inspired Room began in 2007. Studying well-done, classic design remains one of the best ways to find inspiration that lasts.

Observations: grasscloth wallpaper, green-painted doors, substantial statement lighting adding contrast, an interesting pattern mix, a cozy sisal rug, botanical artwork, abundant texture, paneled ceiling with exposed wood beam.

*Observations: inviting wood dining table, mint-green vase, candle-style lantern for mood lighting, rustic tray for casual serving.*

*Observations: soft blue-green painted paneled ceiling, teal chairs for a pop of color, nautical stripes, a cozy corner lamp, black light fixtures, and walls of windows and doors that bring in light.*

*Observations: simple mantel styling, welcoming fireplace, thoughtful texture and pattern combinations for layered warmth.*

Observations: island painted in a soft minty blue, warm wood floors, green Dutch oven on display, casual woven baskets, distinctive architecture including a covered range hood and dishwasher, mostly clear counters and dramatic greenery as a finishing touch.

*Observations: rich wood furniture, simple linen window treatments, a cozy conversation area, and uncomplicated coffee table styling with stacked books for a relaxed look.*

Observations: matching navy twin beds, a footed nightstand, simple greenery, playful blue-and-white patterned bedding, botanical accents throughout, and a coastal striped rug that ties the room together.

Observations: distinctive wallpaper, a simple black light fixture, a cozy reading chair with a side table and brass pharmacy lamp, plaid rug, four-poster bed, blue-and-white bedding, a small round mirror, a substantial lamp, a wood secretary desk, and unassuming curtains on black rods.

*Observations: charming rocking chairs on the porch, shingled exterior, beautiful glass French doors, and a black pendant light for contrast.*

See more of this delightful guest house in New England Home.

Do you imagine how you want your home to feel before you start decorating? Share your thoughts in our free community Facebook group or leave a comment on Instagram. What mood are you trying to create in your home? I’d love to hear about it.