Imagine escaping to a classically-shingled seaside home for an entire summer. It’s perched on a rocky shore with views of the Atlantic greeting you from nearly every window. The ocean sends cooling breezes through open windows and screen doors. The stress of city life is left far behind at this place.
Built in 1902, this dreamy Southport Island escape has seen little change through the last century. That’s the way Mainers and seasonal residents, like owner and acclaimed designer Libby Cameron, like it. This cottage has been in her family for more than 120 years.
Outside, a deck over the water’s edge beckons you to sit and take in the view. Adirondack chairs and a collection of mismatched planters blend perfectly with the surrounding environment. It’s the ultimate spot to enjoy your morning coffee or an evening cocktail.
Inside, a century of summers comes alive through art, antiques, quirky finds, and well-worn furnishings.
White-painted walls and rafters, and wood floors in dark green enhance the laid-back vibe. Sturdy jute, sisal, and seagrass rugs soften the hardwoods and add to the organic feel. Fabrics and decorative elements in shades of blue and green, along with a collection of coastal paintings, echo the seaside locale.
Art and books are tucked into nooks and crannies throughout the home, including along the steep staircase. The bookshelf invites you to stop on your way downstairs and pick a read for your stay.
Like so many summer houses of this era, the cottage is not insulated or heated. A fireplace (far right) crafted from stones found on the property reminds us that summers in Maine can get chilly! A bentwood chair and sofa painted in marine blue blend perfectly with a white painted bench and chippy red dresser. A vintage trunk makes a great coffee table, and framed paintings, prints, and photographs add another layer of interest to this storied space.
This dining room maintains the home’s sense of history with vintage ladderback chairs and a pine china hutch. A Moravian star fixture lights the space at night while the whale cutout presides over family gatherings. A worn drop-leaf table serves as a makeshift bar and an old croquet set offers a whimsical touch.
In the tiny kitchen, the family’s Labradors hang out hoping for a little snack. Open shelving keeps things airy and within view for easy access. The butcher block island is essential for food prep in this tight space where everything has a purpose.
Like so many Maine cottages, the décor has evolved over time, creating a relaxed feel with a patina to match. Here, a wicker chair with cushions covered in a floral fabric, and a worn side table come together effortlessly. A vintage coffee cup with a toile scene holds wildflowers from the garden.
The relaxed vibe continues into the sleeping spaces. Bedrooms sport easygoing quilts and stripes in cheerful colors that pop against the white background. Ocean treasures and botanical prints line spaces between wall framing and simple wooden beds painted white blend seamlessly into the room.
The master bedroom continues the collected feel with a colorful mix of patterns and textiles set against the white backdrop. A bed skirt and curtains in the same red and white floral fabric mix with a scalloped-edge quilt. A blue and white wool rug in a native motif warms the floor and white-painted furniture keeps the mood light.
No doubt another century of summers, stories, and collecting is underway in this charming place. It’s the quintessential Maine summer cottage and a beautiful representation of life in Maine.
We hope you enjoyed the first stop on our tour of Maine’s seaside cottages. Join us next week as we visit a seaside gem loaded with antique treasures. To get notified of upcoming house tours, subscribe to our newsletter and we’ll deliver the info right to your inbox.