Perched high above the brick sidewalks and cobblestones of Main Street is a hidden gem of a property recently opened by Nantucket Island Resorts that provides guests a rare opportunity to stay in one of the island’s most coveted locations.
The 2,500-square-foot three-bedroom, three-and-a-halfbathroom White Elephant Loft at 32 Main St., in the heart of the downtown district, is located on the second floor of a historic brick building nestled among an eclectic array of shops and restaurants, and is just a short walk or drive to nearby beaches and ferry docks.
“The location is really what sets it apart, being right in the heart of town on Main Street,” said Bettina Landt, general manager of the White Elephant, the NIR resort located on Easton Street. “Having the big windows makes the new Loft at 32 Main feel much more connected to the downtown area. You have these big windows. The people-watching is sensational. You really feel like you’re drawn to it.”
Designed by Nantucket’s BPC Architecture, which also designed the interior at 32 Main’s sister loft on Easy Street, the property provides a bright, airy and clean atmosphere, modern décor, living room and full kitchen, creating an open space ideal for living and entertaining. White-oak hardwood floors are located throughout the loft.
The three bedrooms are individually designed, each with their own 42-inch Apple TV and private, fully-tiled bathroom with heated floors and rainfall showers. The kingsized beds can be converted into two twin beds for those traveling with children. Cribs will also be provided upon request.
Two separate seating areas – one formal, the other ideal for lounging – are located on opposite ends of the loft.
The large windows are the highlight of the main room, and they overlook the street and tree canopy below. Those staying in the loft during busy holidays – like the Fourth of July or Daffodil Weekend in April – can enjoy all of the a “This kind of client is going to be comfortable with these items because it’s just like being at their house,” Landt said. “We really try to cater to that. It’s that level of amenities that people really appreciate.”
So far, Landt said friends, families and even group reunions have taken advantage of all the loft has to offer, as the space lends itself to giving everyone their own space while at the same time providing comfortable shared areas and a surplus of added luxuries.
The new property is a natural extension of the White Elephant, which has been rated among the top hotels in the world by Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler. All guests of the loft will have access to select amenities at White Elephant Village – the White Elephant’s sister hotel located at 19 North Water St. – located a short walking distance from Main Street, including use of the Village’s heated pool, cabanas and fitness center.
Guests will also sleep on linens by Italy’s Pratesi, and have use of plush Turkish towels and cozy bathrobes. In addition, a computer and Wii gaming system are available.
“It’s got plenty of space, and the TV room in the back is a nice little area for kids or adults to unwind,” Hashem said. “The kitchen equipment is top-of-theline. It’s just fantastic and provides all the White Elephant services and sheets and Turkish towels. One of the great features is that you have access to the pool at the White Elephant Village while it’s open. It’s just a fantastic space for families or couples.”
Both Hashem and Landt said they view the expansion – which took about nine months to complete from start to finish – as a positive sign that Nantucket continues to be a popular vacation destination. The loft will be open through Christmas Stroll in early December, and has already been reserved up to that point, in addition to Christmas Stroll 2015.
“I think that we’re very lucky. We’re able to continue to evolve the brand,” Landt said. “The White Elephant has such a strong brand presence and we’re able to, with the help of Steve and Jill, evolve it and grow the brand in different directions, and I think that that is really a great platform for our business and for the future of not only our business but also of doing things in town. We’re obviously really excited to have another White Elephant product to add, and it’s ideal for different types of people who are traveling together.” ///
Rates for the Loft at 32 Main Street range from $1,800 to $3,700 per night, depending on the season.
For more information, visit www.whitelephanthotel.com or call (800) 475-2637.
Lindsay Pykosz is a Nantucket native and a staff writer for The Inquirer and Mirror, Nantucket’s newspaper since 1821.
