John F. Peto designed the house and studio; at the start of this project, both buildings still contained some of his furniture and the artifacts depicted in his paintings. Although previously identified as designed in the Queen Anne style, the architecture is more characteristic of the geometric and simpler Shingle style. Although the house had been altered, it still conveys the feeling of a late-19th-century rustic Victorian house. It is unique as an example of an artist’s home and studio, designed by the artist, and it is evocative of Peto's art and personality. The property has remained in, and been cared for, by the Peto Family for 115 years.

The John Fredrick Peto House and Studio is a pivotal, contributing resource within New Jersey's Island Heights Historic District, a historic district placed on the National Register in 1981. It is also a member of the Historic Artists' Homes & Studios program.