Blue Iris by Life House weaves together the island's historical influences and artistic heritage through a lens inspired by the Mediterranean. Designed as a tribute to Greek Revival architecture and The Nantucket Art Colony, our coastal sanctuary offers a nostalgic retreat where classical elegance and contemporary creativity converge. To bring the hotel to life, Life House’s interior design team pulled influence from the current structure, and the vibrant surrounding history. 

Our historic Greek Revival estate nods to the architecture of classical Greek temples and their symmetrical forms, pilasters, columns, pediments, and intricate cornices. The house style, reminiscent of a bygone era, serves as the foundation for our design narrative. Each element, from the symmetry of the stairs and engaged columns at the main entry to the decorative friezes, transports guests to a realm of classical grandeur.

Upon entry, Blue Iris embodies the spirit of an art collector’s vacation home. Beginning in the early 1920s Nantucket went through an artistic evolution, bringing the island from a whaling port to a thriving creative community. Art patrons like Florence Lang transformed wharf shacks into studios, welcoming the "waterfront artists" and establishing the first modern art gallery, the Easy Street Gallery. They painted vibrant land- and seascapes depicted in innovative ways, an idea that now finds expression in Blue Iris' curated art collection, offering guests a glimpse into Nantucket's creative soul.

Our hotel also pays homage to the Portuguese influence that permeates Nantucket's cultural fabric. The arrival of Azorean crew members on whaleships in the early 1800s brought forth a fascination with their distant islands of the Azores, parallel in latitude to Nantucket. Drawing inspiration from the local Portuguese community's art and culture, we embraced elements like classic blue and white tiles, seaside motifs, and an appreciation for Roman art and sculpture. These influences intertwine harmoniously with the Greek Revival concept, creating a blend of Mediterranean aesthetics.

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Design Highlights at Blue Iris:‍

Hand Painted Artwork

We commissioned Los Angeles artist Brian Robles to create hand-painted designs around the entryway, guestroom doors, and lobby fireplace. The artwork is reminiscent of Nicola del Roscio’s home in Gaeta, Italy, a longtime companion and assistant to Cy Twombly, infusing the space with a touch of the Mediterranean.

Roman Clay Walls & Ceiling

Portola Paints & Glazes' textural Roman clay lime wash paint lends depth and visual interest to our lobby and main corridor. This detail not only adds a timeless elegance but also connects to the wall finishes commonly found in Mediterranean regions since ancient times.

Guestroom Details

Each guestroom at Blue Iris features elements that reflect both the Greek Revival and Nantucket's artistic heritage. The custom headboard fabric, created by textile artist Susan Faiola, showcases an abstract interpretation of the Greek key motif, while the custom wardrobes feature bespoke pattern fabric inspired by antique Greek coins and coastal scenes. Playful pom pom trim from Samuel & Sons adorns the Roman shades, adding a touch of whimsy. Artwork throughout captures the essence of the seaside and the local flora and fauna, alongside pieces reminiscent of the Greek Revival style. The bespoke casegoods in every room, designed by the Life House design team, ensures a personalized and luxurious experience.

Custom Portuguese Tiles

Blue Iris’ backyard garden patio features a mural wall adorned with custom hand-painted tiles from Hand Made Portugal. Each unique tile, made using traditional Portuguese techniques, showcases motifs that celebrate Nantucket’s natural beauty and the Greek Revival concept. From local seabirds to the iconic Blue Iris flower, to Acanthus leaf motifs, reminiscent of Corinthian capitals. Guestroom suites also boast classic Portuguese tiled fireplaces, showcasing a refined blend of cultural influences.

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Escape to Blue Iris this summer to discover a serene space where history, art, and Mediterranean charm converge. Now accepting reservations for the season.

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