Shelter Island

Architectural and Interior design photography of Jonathan Adler’s country house on Shelter Island, published in Marie Claire Maison

Set on Shelter Island, off the East End of Long Island, this vibrant beach house reflects the creative spirit of its owners — designer and potter Jonathan Adler and creative director and author Simon Doonan. Known for his colorful ceramics and interiors brand, Adler imbues the space with a playful yet carefully considered design language, while Doonan’s eye for gesture and detail helps shape an environment that feels both expressive and effortless.

Located along the waterfront overlooking Gardiners Bay, the one-story modernist retreat was built from the ground up with help from Gray Organschi Architecture. Adler and Doonan envisioned a home that embraced Shelter Island’s natural beauty — a place that celebrates light, landscape, and leisure more than formal convention.

Interior design blend of Big Sur bohemian and rich Ibiza hippie

Inside, the interiors mix Adler’s own furniture and ceramics with vintage finds and curated pieces that nod to mid-century modernism, California bohemian style, and global influences. Pops of color, layered textures, and sculptural forms create a joyful, tactile atmosphere that mirrors life on the island’s tranquil shores.

Gray Organschi Architecture - single-story black structure, inspired by Japan

Outdoors, generous windows and seamless indoor-outdoor connections blur the line between living space and landscape, while architectural detailing and material choices — from wood and stone to vibrant textiles — reflect a curious, playful approach to design that’s deeply personal.

Jonathan Adler and Simon Doonan

This series celebrates interior photography that captures both the spirit of Shelter Island and the creative personalities who made this house their sanctuary.