Mention ‘the Hamptons’ and you’ll most likely drift off to thoughts of expansive decks, sumptuous sofas, grand mansions, beautiful beaches and lavish cocktail parties. And the history behind this popular holiday destination, and style, is just as fascinating as the images it conjures.
Read on to discover 10 essential steps to unlocking classic Hamptons style that works just as well in Australia as it does on the East Coast of America.
1. Pattern perfection
Add extra personality to a subtle seaside palette with patterned cushions or curtains in similar hues such as blue or grey. Florals, geometric designs and ikat prints are all popular ways to add some character to Hamptons-style homes.
2. Well-placed windows
“When you say the Hamptons, it evokes images of the beach and a relaxed lifestyle,” says owner Belinda Vanden Boom of Gallerie B Interiors.
“In house design, this equates to light-filled, open rooms with a strong connection between indoor and outdoor, something that suits the Australian way of life.” In Hamptons homes, natural light pours in from French doors, classic multi-paned windows and skylights.
3. Crisp white walls
At its heart, the Hamptons look is “sophisticated, relaxed, timeless, airy and light”, says Indah Island interior designer Natalee Bowen. The best place to start is with a fresh coat of paint, and white is always right for American East Coast style.
“Interior colours commonly associated with the Hamptons look are navy, duck egg blue, fresh white and soft greys.” – Diane Bergeron
4. Oversized furniture
Furnishings should be a mixture of tailored comfort and relaxed elegance. “Opt for big, beautiful lamps, large sofas and glass coffee tables,” suggests director Leigh Boswell of Highgate House.
5. Classic curtains
Floaty floor-to-ceiling curtains bring a romantic feel to a room, and help contribute to the light and airy Hamptons look.
“Roman blinds or sheer curtains can soften rooms such as the kitchen and bathrooms,” says Belinda.
6. Coastal colours
Let the seaside inspire the rest of your palette. Think soft neutrals, creamy tones, sea greens and blues – and make sure you apply them throughout.
“Ensure the colour palette flows from inside to out,” says Highgate House’s Leigh Boswell. “This doesn’t mean they have to be the same colours, they just need to sit comfortably together.”
7. Plantation shutters
Practical as well as pretty, they let you control temperature and light in a room. They don’t have to be white, either – a touch of colour in your plantation shutters can extend through your entire home.
8. Nautical knick-knacks
Team blue and white ceramics such as ginger jars and lamps with faux shells and statement coral pieces for a beachy feel.
9. Timber floorboards
Timber floorboards have been used for centuries for their durable and long-lasting Nature. “American white oak natural boards create warmth or, when stained black, add a dramatic feel,” says Indah Island’s Natalee Bowen.
10. Wonderful wainscoting
Introduce east-coast style with timber moulding along hallways and staircases. “Integrate detailed trims such as architraves, cornices and skirtings,” says Belinda. Many panelling stores offer a range of inlay moulds and skirting boards designed to bring Hamptons style to your home.
10 Hamptons-inspired decor pieces we love
01
Malabar E14 pendant in White, Cafe Lighting
$1149
Your Hamptons home starts with textured, statement lighting in your hallway or over your kitchen island.
02
Modern National Bordeaux basin set in Chrome, The Blue Space
$382 (was $509)
Make a style statement with this compact basin set for your bathroom, powder room or ensuite.
03
Bella cross-back bar stool, Temple & Webster
$159 (was $229)
Raise the bar in your kitchen with this classic cross-backed stool for quintessential Hamptons style.
04
Anjuna bedside table in Natural, Adairs
$449.99
Simple and elegant with a touch of rattan, a one-door cabinet to store away essentials by your bedside.
05
Hamptons floating wall clock, Temple & Webster
$69.95 (was $99)
Time to update your Hamptons style! Channel coastal textures with this lightweight timber wall clock.
06
White faux hydrangea bouquet (set/2), Temple & Webster
$49
For a soft, billowy garden look all year round, pop a bunch of crisp white hydrangeas into a vase or urn.
