By Marina Case
This summer, I had the privilege of walking through one of the most pristine and protected landscapes on Martha’s Vineyard – the newly opened 200 acres of the Squibnocket Pond Reservation. Once part of a 300-acre private property owned by the former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the land was acquired by the Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank and Sheriff’s Meadow Foundation from her family back in 2020. This untouched stretch of pristine coast has now been made accessible to the public, although a parking reservation is required. Armed with my TrailsMV app, I set out to see the inspiration this area of the island might hold. What I discovered was beyond my expectation – a place that feels wild, yet exquisitely curated by nature, and a color palette so incredible that by the time I returned to my West Tisbury studio, I had to create several new interior design boards!
A Walkway into the Wild of Martha’s Vineyard
Squibnocket Pond Reservation has two trails: the north trail which leads to the pond, and a south trail that leads to the Atlantic Ocean. Each artistically winds its way through brush, oak trees, wetlands, windswept dunes, and breathtaking views.
The walkways themselves are beautifully designed. Thoughtfully constructed in a sandy tone, they almost disappear into the landscape. Plus, the small perforations on the boards allow the dirt to fall through and create traction underfoot, making them simultaneously both safe and aesthetic.
As I strolled with my friend, I was struck by the amazing colors in which I was immersed. There were the changing blues and greens of the ocean with sparkling sun-touched foam. The pond and marsh grasses were a mix of deep teal, celadon, and olive. The sky was a crystal-clear azure with pops of white puffy clouds. The scrub and trees were awash in deep greens and tans. And of course, the pale sands on the beach. The coastal hues of this landscape truly touched my soul, grounding me and inspiring an intense sense of calm and creativity.
Translating Nature into Design Boards
Once back in my studio, I began pulling together design boards to capture the feeling of Squibnocket’s colorful, yet tranquil, coastline.
There’s something about Squibnocket Pond that feels almost timeless, even ancient. Walking through the reservation reminded me of scenes from Caleb’s Crossing, written by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Geraldine Brooks, where the narrator comes upon the Wampanoag people in an unspoiled landscape.
As an interior designer, I believe the best design is about honoring what already exists, and nature shows us exactly how colors, textures, and forms can beautifully coexist in perfect balance. This is why Martha’s Vineyard is so inspiring. Its landscapes are gorgeous, functional, harmonious. Translating such elements and colors into interiors inspires me to create spaces that feel grounded and timeless, yet personal. The palette evokes an immediate sense of peace with the tones of the beach, water, brush, and trees connecting us to a tranquil place on a subconscious level.
For me, this hike was more than a walk through a pristine reserve on Martha’s Vineyard. It was a reminder of why I am so drawn to helping people create environments that nurture and inspire.
Ready to bring the colors and spirit of Martha’s Vineyard into your home?
I’d love to help you create a design that captures the magic of this Island.
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