Road Trip!
A little while ago, I blogged about the value of experiencing everyday style all around us — style that doesn’t cost a penny. often the most inspirational style experience can be complimentary and that’s exactly what happened for me this summer. My partner Sara and I made a decision to take in the appeal along the coast of Maine. Oh yes, we loaded up the automobile (usually stuffed with props and junk finds) and headed out on a road trip!
After making it safely through Quebec with the help of Nancy our GPS, we arrived in stunning Maine. Of course I started snapping the perfectly faded architecture. This building actually had a ‘for rent’ sign swinging, and believe me, I was tempted. Do you know how lots of photo shoot locations I could get out of that place?!?
Bar Harbor was one of my much-loved stops. The sophistication of the seafaring lifestyle reminded me that there is life beyond the heat and grime of the city.
Another Bar Harbor shot — love the Hippie Van — need to put on my Christmas list.
Okay on to the good stuff — the houses! Bar Harbor used to be the summertime playground for new York and Boston society. and they knew how to ‘summer.’ They built these gorge-OUS summer houses with cedar shakes and gambrel roofs. couple that with the twisting vines and the dappled shade from the century-old trees. I was in love.
Sitting on the deck was a way of life. and check out these porches! I think we must bring this back, don’t you? instead of tacking garages on the front of our houses, let’s make it a sweeping verandah.
Oh and I love the introduction of blue here! just as pure as the ocean nearby and that layer of moss on the roofing doesn’t hurt either. Don’t you just want to hear the sound of that gravel drive as you arrive at this, your summer house? Me too!
Here’s a snap captured beautifully by Sara — now if that’s not inspiring I don’t know what is! I can just see a room inspired by this scheme now — cloud white walls, pale blue ceiling, mossy green upholstery and bleached wood furniture the colour of weathered stone. Dreamy!
We had to do a little shopping in Portland, Maine. I found a extremely elegant little emporium called Blanche & Mimi where they had vintage French bistro chairs, block-printed bedding and vintage crockery. later I found out that Martha Stewart had been lunching just down the street! P.S. Hood’s up ‘cause it was raining.
My other (and number one) much-loved stop was Kennebunkport. I can’t even begin to describe how effortlessly elegant our hotel was. It’s called The Colony and it’s this sweeping seaside resort from another era. It’s perched ideal on the ocean and the accompanying sights and smells are so invigorating. check out that ship-shaped weather vane.
Each room is captivating and untouched (there are NO televisions!) and come with exceptional ocean views. The foyer (below) is a dark moody room with unspoiled wood panelling, a fireplace, and intimate little groupings of vintage furniture. plus the staff gathers bouquets from the grounds to brighten things up. I may have drooled upon entering. Oh and when you step through that door with the Palladian window, you’re looking ideal at the ocean. I am not lying.
As I pointed out there are no TVs, but there is this elegant old library and a games room. If you need a break and a elegant place to curl up with a good book — is this not the best spot?
Sara and I had our anniversary dinner in the hotel’s delightful dining room (again, sweeping ocean views). We ate off vintage monogrammed china and real silver. There was Maine blueberry pie too!
Let me tell you, it can be pretty draining pumping out one creative idea after another in this business. we all need time to recharge — and Maine did just that for me. I’d never been before, but I can guarantee I’ll be back. soaking up all that appeal and style didn’t cost me a cent and has inspired me with tons of fresh new material. I highly recommend you give it a try.
Oh and while you do so, please wear a summer hat.
Photo credits:
Michael Penney