steven gambrel’s 18th century sea captain’s house

It’s been a while since I’ve posted a house tour, but it hasn’t been for lack of trying to find something worthy to write about, I promise.  It’s been my experience that oldies really are goodies and that the homes I find the most inspirational are those whose design and style withstand the true test of time.  Interior designer and architect Steven Gambrel’s 18th century sea captain’s house in Sag Harbor is, hands down, my all-time favorite.  If you’ve been reading this blog for any length of time you know I have a slight love affair with the man’s work so I was delighted to stumble upon images of his home from angles I’d never seen before.  Apparently, the house was listed for sale a couple years back, but I’m glad to see he still lives there (I stalk him regularly on Instagram, I know).  There are so many charming details to love about this house, from Gambrel’s signature pale blue paint palette,subtle nautical details reflecting the home’s history to walls, trim and ceiling all painted in the same hue, just to name a few.  I’m sure you’ve seen this beauty all over Pinterest, but here are a few views you might not have seen before:

Pale blue shutters and Dutch front door have always been one of my favorite parts about this house:

The grounds are as lovely as the interior:

Those lacquered pale blue ceilings, be still my heart!

Blue walls, trim and ceiling in the eating area:

Blue and white and a little industrial touch in the kitchen:

Gorgeous pine paneling in the study:

Head-to-toe purple is unexpected and elegant in the formal living room:

Love the tone-on-tone coral and antique four poster bed in a guest room:

Subtle nautical details abound in the guest house.  Love the vaulted ceiling and all the natural light.  The anchor coat of arms above the fireplace isn’t too bad, either!