The Designer’s Journal: Inside Vineyard Decorators’ Island-Inspired Approach

For Vineyard Decorators, design is never one-size-fits-all—it’s a personal dialogue between place, history, and the people who call Martha’s Vineyard home. Rooted deeply in the island’s natural beauty and rich stories, their approach balances calm, organic comfort with bold, statement-making moments that feel entirely authentic.

“We don’t design for ourselves,” they say, “we design to reflect each client’s lifestyle and values—creating spaces that feel lived in, loved, and truly one-of-a-kind.”

We caught up with Vineyard Decorators to explore their latest project, Plum Bush, a new build in West Tisbury where collaboration, natural materials, and timeless style come together to create a serene yet spirited home.

Describe your design style.

You & your family. Our style isn’t about us—it’s about our clients. That’s why our projects vary so widely in aesthetic. We don’t design for a portfolio or to reflect our personal preferences. We design to reflect each client’s lifestyle, values, and taste. Our version of coastal is whatever feels like home to them.

Where do you draw your design inspiration from?

Our inspiration comes from the island we call home—Martha’s Vineyard. It’s rooted in the history of the homes, the stories of those who’ve lived here, and the natural beauty that surrounds us. The sand, the dunes, the ocean—everything about this place shapes the way we design.

What is your design ethos?

Design should be deeply personal, not prescriptive. Our ethos is simple: listen closely, design thoughtfully, and create spaces that reflect the people who live in them. We believe a home should feel lived in, loved, and entirely one-of-a-kind—because it is.

What does your home say about you?

That we live a full, active island life. There are fishing rods and crabbing nets on the front porch, a mudroom packed with muck boots, and bikes scattered in the yard. But once you step inside, the pace shifts—it’s a calm, neutral oasis grounded in organic design. It reflects both the energy of our everyday life and the serenity we return to.

What are you working on right now?

We’re working on an incredible new home called Plum Bush, which you can catch on our Instagram highlight reel. It’s a new build in West Tisbury, and one of the most rewarding parts of the project is the dream team behind it. We’re collaborating with general contractor Todd DeBettencourt of TD Builders and Will Wing of Worth & Wing. A strong team makes all the difference—and this one is exceptional.

What’s your favorite way to create a statement-making moment in a room?

I love using scale and natural materials to create impact without overwhelming a space. A single oversized light fixture, a sculptural piece of furniture, or a vintage textile can speak volumes. It’s about choosing one bold, intentional element that draws the eye and sets the tone—without shouting.

Can you share your favorite piece of decor in your own home?

A 40+ year-old ficus tree that has been in our family for decades. It was originally a gift to my father from an old friend, lived in my childhood home, spent ten years at my brother’s house, and now lives in my own living room. It’s more than decor—it’s a living memory that makes me feel grounded, happy, and deeply connected to our island home.

What’s your favorite Schoolhouse product?

The Hala Chandelier is a versatile favorite—understated, yet quietly confident. I’ve always been drawn to mid-century lighting, so fixtures influenced by that era really resonate with me. The Hala blends form and function beautifully—it’s gently sculptural and provides a striking anchor in the room, while its adjustable shades make it effortlessly adaptable to everyday lighting needs. It’s the kind of piece that elevates a space without overpowering it.