The Richard

Lark Hotels operates contemporary-style boutique hotels all over the Northeast, each one carefully tailored to its location — so it’s only sensible that in the upscale enclave of Edgartown, on Martha’s Vineyard, its hotels would take on an almost regal air. The Richard, the youngest of the three Larks in town, stands right on Main Street, but offers an almost aristocratic measure of seclusion. Built in the 19th century as a ship’s captain’s residence, it was later converted into an inn, and under Lark’s care it’s been transformed into a chic and contemporary 16-room boutique hotel.

The key to its distinctive identity is that they’ve let the heritage architecture speak for itself, and resisted the temptation to go all-out nautical in the décor. Instead stylish monochromes and sparingly applied accent colors establish a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Every room is different, as you’d expect from a building of this vintage, but all come with the expected comforts, including modern electronics and bathrooms equipped with walk-in rain showers.

There’s an outdoor courtyard where guests gather by the fire into the evening, as well as a front porch that’s made for leisure. And while breakfast is the only full meal, you’re in no danger of going hungry — walk down Main Street towards the water and you’re immediately in the heart of Edgartown.