A Historic Martha’s Vineyard Hotel Gets A Retro-Chic Makeover
Summercamp channels childhood and the glory days of summers past.
BY KARI COSTAS PUBLISHED: MAY 19, 2016
While we love the glamping trend, there's no denying that sometimes reliving the glory days of childhood is better with an iPad and a king-sized bed. A newly unveiled hotel in Martha's Vineyard offers just that.
Opening today, Summercamp occupies the former Wesley Hotel, a distinctive Victorian-style structure built in 1879. Located in the colorful town of Oak Bluffs, the property overlooks the waterfront and the famous miniature "gingerbread cottages" known as Wesleyan Grove.
With its history as a camp retreat in mind, the hotel underwent a full-scale gut renovation, led by Boston-based design firm Rachel Reider Interiors. Reider's playful redesign captures the joy of summertime and the spirit of camp days, balancing nostalgic details with the modern day amenities we grown-ups know and love.
The 95 guest rooms and suites are outfitted with custom furniture and bright decor, from the mid-century rocker decked in a madras plaid to the campaign-style bed that looks like it's swinging from rope. Seagrass wallcoverings, breezy linen fabrics, lanterns and weathered wood nod to the hotel's coastal surroundings, while vintage photos of the property and pieces commissioned from local artists pay tribute to Martha's Vineyard.
Painted arrows and wooden oars, textiles printed with dragonflies and fireflies, and sofas with sleeping bag-like waffle stitching are layered in a palette of blue, green and sunny yellow.
The boutique hotel also houses a Rec Hall and Camp Canteen that adults and children will love. The retro canteen sells snacks and sundries, including Cracker Jacks and Dreamsicles, while families can enjoy movies, ping pong, foosball, carpet Twister and a life-size board game in the AstroTurfed Rec Hall. Of course, the Apple TVs, iPads and bluetooth Tivoli radios don't hurt, either.
Occupancy ranges from $149-$509/night. Check out the cool space below.
