Enhancing your Nantucket Outdoor Living Space: Outdoor Kitchens, Pergolas, Showers & more
Enhancing your Nantucket home’s outdoor living space is one of the best ways to enjoy island life to the fullest. From custom outdoor kitchens and cedar pergolas to timeless outdoor showers and stone patios, each feature adds beauty, function, and value to your property. At J. Martinson Builders, we design and build outdoor spaces that feel seamlessly connected to your home and Nantucket’s natural landscape, crafted to withstand the coastal climate and meet local HDC standards. Whether you’re dreaming of a summer entertaining area or a private retreat, our team can help you create a space that’s both durable and distinctly Nantucket. Feel free to contact us directly for personalized advice. Want to learn more? Visit our Homeowner Resources page for additional content.
Outdoor Kitchens: A Centerpiece for Entertaining
An outdoor kitchen makes summer entertaining effortless. On Nantucket, where family gatherings and dinner parties are part of the rhythm of the season, a well-designed outdoor kitchen keeps the chef in the middle of the fun while keeping heat out of the house.
Key design features include:
• Durable materials that withstand salt air and moisture, such as stone counters, stainless steel appliances, and marine-grade cabinetry.
• Smart layouts that balance prep, cooking, and seating areas so the space feels welcoming.
• Specialty additions like pizza ovens, wine fridges, and built-in grills that make outdoor dining unforgettable.
Beyond lifestyle benefits, outdoor kitchens also boost rental and resale value. Vacation renters are drawn to homes with outdoor dining options, and buyers recognize them as premium upgrades.
Pergolas and Shade Structures: Creating Outdoor Rooms
A pergola does more than provide shade, it defines an outdoor “room” that feels intentional and inviting. On Nantucket, pergolas blend seamlessly with cedar shingled homes, giving a sense of tradition while offering modern functionality.
Homeowners often pair pergolas with:
• Retractable canopies for adjustable shade.
• Climbing roses or hydrangeas to soften the structure.
• Built-in lighting, fans, or heaters to extend usability into the evening.
Whether framing a dining area or sheltering a lounge space, pergolas are a timeless addition that work beautifully with the natural charm of Nantucket properties.
Outdoor Showers: A Nantucket Essential
Ask almost anyone what makes a Nantucket summer special, and an outdoor shower will make the list. These features are both practical and iconic. Perfect for rinsing off after Surfside, Cisco, or a day on the boat.
When designing an outdoor shower, we focus on:
• Materials like cedar enclosures and bluestone floors that weather beautifully.
• Hot/cold plumbing for comfort in every season.
• Privacy solutions that respect setbacks while still feeling open to the sky.
Outdoor showers aren’t just homeowner favorites, they’re also a top rental amenity on Nantucket. Many vacationers list an outdoor shower as a “must have” when booking summer homes.
Patios, Fire Features & Coastal Landscaping
Outdoor living spaces are most successful when they feel integrated with the property. Bluestone patios, Ipe decking, or natural stone walkways set the foundation. Fire pits and fireplaces make chilly evenings cozy, while built-in seating and custom lighting encourage gatherings long after sunset..
Building for Nantucket’s Climate
The beauty of Nantucket comes with building challenges: high winds, salt air, nor’easters, and freeze-thaw cycles. That’s why choosing the right materials and construction methods is critical.
• Weather resistance is always the priority, from stainless hardware to hurricane-rated structures.
• Drainage planning ensures patios and decks last for decades without shifting.
• Maintenance awareness helps homeowners enjoy their spaces without constant upkeep.
By designing with the island’s unique environment in mind, we create outdoor living spaces that look stunning and perform year after year.
Why Work with a Local Nantucket Builder
Nantucket has its own set of rules and traditions when it comes to construction. From Historic District Commission (HDC) approvals to zoning setbacks, understanding the local process is just as important as the craftsmanship itself.
At J. Martinson Builders, we offer:
• Experience navigating permits and HDC reviews.
• Knowledge of which materials hold up best on island.
• Access to local craftsmen who specialize in Nantucket-style details.
When you partner with a builder who lives and works here, you’re not just getting a contractor, you’re getting someone who understands Nantucket’s way of life.
Ready to Plan your Nantucket Outdoor Project?
A custom outdoor living space transforms a Nantucket property into a true retreat. Perfect for family, friends, and renters alike. Whether it’s a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, a shaded pergola, or the island’s signature outdoor shower, these features celebrate the beauty of life outdoors.
If you’re ready to explore the possibilities for your Nantucket home, we’d love to help you design and build a space that fits your lifestyle and the island we call home. Contact us us to get started.