The Nantucket Historical Association (NHA) is bringing a fresh twist to its annual fundraiser, Nantucket by Design, with an expanded program and a new July schedule for 2024. Running from July 15-18, this year's event carries the theme of "Craftsmanship," celebrating Nantucket's rich heritage in design, culture, and the decorative arts. With a packed itinerary of panels, workshops, and discussions, the event aims to highlight both the island’s historical significance and the importance of craftsmanship in modern creative spaces.

Celebrating Craftsmanship and Nantucket’s Heritage

The theme of Craftsmanship resonates with Nantucket’s legacy as a hub for design and creativity, echoing the island’s rich past while also looking toward the future of interior design and artistic innovation. This year’s co-chairs, Bill Richards and Marla Sanford, emphasize the deep connection between craftsmanship and Nantucket's history, stating, “We are excited to celebrate both the art of design and the spirit of Nantucket, weaving together the threads of creativity, culture, and craftsmanship in a way that honors this remarkable island’s heritage.”

The event aligns with the NHA’s mission to preserve and promote the island’s unique history and culture. Through four days of programming, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with a variety of topics, from modern design rooted in Nantucket’s traditions to discussions on the evolving role of craftsmanship in contemporary interiors.

A Dynamic Program: Panels, Workshops, and Events

The four-day event will feature a wide range of activities, beginning with the opening panel, Nantucket Heritage in Modern Design, moderated by a prominent figure in the design community. This session will showcase local talents such as Michelle Holland from Nantucket House Antiques & Interior Design Studio, Bess Clarke from Nantucket Looms, Ray Pohl of Botticelli & Pohl Architects, and Caitlin Parsons of Nantucket Bracelets. Together, they will explore how Nantucket’s rich history continues to influence modern design.

One of the highlights of the week is the setting: some of the discussions will take place at the NHA’s Greater Light property. Once a livestock barn built in the late 1700s, Greater Light was transformed into a summer home and studio by Gertrude and Hanna Monaghan, two Quaker sisters who became central figures in Nantucket’s thriving art colony during the early 20th century. Their eclectic design aesthetic and appreciation for handcrafted objects perfectly align with this year’s theme, making Greater Light an ideal venue to explore the fusion of history and contemporary craftsmanship.

The Colony Hotel and New Spaces for Engagement

The NHA’s Hadwen House garden will serve as a stylish welcome center, transformed by The Colony Hotel. This space will offer refreshments and host select events throughout the day. Sarah Wetenhall, owner of The Colony Hotel, will participate in one of Thursday’s panels, Transpire & Inspire, where she will share insights on design and creativity.

Design Luminaries and Noteworthy Speakers

Nantucket by Design 2024 will also feature a keynote speech by renowned designer Ken Fulk, who is known for his luxurious, immersive design projects. Another highly anticipated event is the always sold-out Design Luncheon, which this year features a conversation with Aerin Lauder and Mark D. Sikes, moderated by Stellene Volandes, Editor in Chief of Town & Country. The event promises to offer an inside look at the latest trends in interior design, blending insights from leaders in the industry with a focus on Nantucket's design heritage.

Co-chair Marla Sanford expressed the importance of expanding this year’s program: “We made a commitment to further elevate this year’s program, offering more calendar days and, in turn, more speaking engagements.” This expanded schedule allows for more in-depth discussions and showcases a diverse lineup of designers, artists, and creatives who will share their expertise across various sessions.

Workshops Celebrating Nantucket’s Craft Traditions

Complementing the panels and discussions are a series of hands-on Decorative Arts Workshops. These sessions will delve into the intricacies of traditional Nantucket crafts such as Sailors’ Valentines, Historic Transferware, and Nantucket Basket Woven Cuff Bracelets. Held at the NHA’s 1800 House, these workshops offer attendees a chance to engage directly with the island’s artisanal heritage while learning new skills from expert craftsmen.

In addition to these immersive workshops, the NHA will host The Hive, a pop-up design showroom that showcases innovative and handcrafted designs. A Master Class conversation with jewelry designers Nicholas Varney and Susan Lister Locke will also take place at Locke's shop, where participants can delve deeper into the world of fine craftsmanship and design.

Book Signings and Designer Showcases

The week’s events also include several book signings with prominent designers. On Tuesday, attendees can meet Veranda Editor in Chief Steele Marcoux and other notable designers, such as Jesse Carrier and Mara Miller, Meg Braff, Nina Farmer, and Amanda Reynal, at Eleish van Breems.

The diverse array of programming, from interactive workshops to insightful panel discussions, promises to make Nantucket by Design 2024 a must-attend event for design enthusiasts, artisans, and anyone interested in Nantucket's unique cultural heritage. By celebrating craftsmanship and creativity, the NHA continues to honor the island’s past while embracing its vibrant future in the world of design.

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