HAMMER TIME


July 31, 2023

A quick chat with fine carpenter and DJ, Sandy Kohner.

interview by Robert Cocuzzo

photo by Kit Noble

What’s one lost thing from growing up on Nantucket that you’d like back?


The bowling alley.


What’s your favorite venue on island to play as a DJ and why?


The Charlie Noble, because it’s where I’ll be deejaying every third Saturday this summer.


If you could change one aspect of the Historic District Commission code to alter the appearance of island homes,what would it be?


Allowing insulated glass in the core district. It makes no sense that you can’t, so everyone uses aluminum storm windows, which are definitely not historic.


What’s a hidden gem on Nantucket that only locals know about?


Can’t tell you about that! We try to keep it a secret.


As a fine carpenter, what do you take the most pride in building and why?


Staircases. They can be the centerpiece of the house and they are always something people notice.

What could you absolutely not live without on Nantucket?


The amazing people and community.


What does a quiet day off look like for Sandy Kohner?


Relaxing coffee. A little bit of reading. Playing some music. Beach in the summer. Netflix in the winter.


What concerns you most about the future of the island?


Affordable year- round rentals.


What’s the biggest faux pas of the new Nantucket?


I feel like people need to learn to slow down in the summer and try to relax. Nobody likes the traffic, the lines or the crowded Stop & Shop, but we are all in it together—stop being in a rush.


What’s one thing that most people don’t know about you?


Growing up on Nantucket, I feel like everyone knows everything about everyone, but I’m just a nice, sensitive guy, constantly trying to be the best version of myself every day.

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