Aaron Perkins
Your Home Beautiful style masterclass to show you how to decorate with enduring Hamptons style interiors – with the help of our Hamptons decorating experts.
Hamptons style interiors are having a moment and it’s about time. The classic coastal decorating style we have adopted from the other side of the world is, we believe here to stay.
The Hamptons refers to a group of townships on Long Island, New York, including Montauk, Southampton and Sag Harbor which, up until the mid-to-late 19th century, were isolated farming and fishing settlements, made up of homes built with honest, quality materials to withstand their rugged location.
With the arrival of train tracks into Southampton, the settlements became popular vacation spots and, with that, wealth moved in, along with gorgeous summer residences that embraced easy, coastal living and, over the years, evolved into the look we love today.
It’s a look that is made up of many elements coming together to create an interior decorating style that is crisp yet relaxed, coastal yet classic. We show you how to bring all of the design pieces of the puzzle together to create the ultimate Hamptons home.
1. Natural textures
Warm up plain white walls and timber floors with sisal rugs, wicker furniture, classic works of art and carefully curated homewares in signature colourways such as soft green, teal, whites and creams. “Layer, layer, layer using natural textures such as linens, jute and rattan,” says interior designer Natalee Bowen of Indah Island.
2. Wonderful wainscoting
Introduce east-coast style with timber moulding along hallways and staircases. “integrate detailed trims such as architraves, cornices and skirtings,” says Belinda. Intrim Mouldings offer a range of inlay moulds and skirting boards designed to bring Hamptons style to your home. Try HardieGroove lining to inject a casual, coastal vibe with tongue-and-groove panelling.
“The key to Hamptons style interiors is a classic look with a relaxed feel”
Belinda Vanden Boom, Gallerie B Interiors
3. A window seat
Think long, lazy afternoons stretching out with the weekend paper or scrolling through your iPad – Hamptons homes are tailor-made for relaxing, making window seats a common feature. Contact your cabinetmaker to add one to your home. Ideally include storage underneath and be sure to pick an indoor/outdoor fabric for your cushion covers.
4. Lovely lighting
If your home doesn’t naturally benefit from an abundance of light, create the illusion. “Add extra lighting where possible,” says Gallerie B Interiors’ Belinda Vanden Boom. “Think wall lights in bathrooms, powder rooms, living spaces and kitchens.” Wall sconces mounted around mirrors add traditional charm.
5. Shaker-style cabinetry
Whether you’re looking at the kitchen, bathroom or bedroom, classic cabinetry serves as an essential design inclusion. “Hamptons style interiors can be modern yet classic and timeless,” explains Belinda. “Include detailed Shaker-style cabinetry with beautiful handles.”
6. Quality materials
Hardy materials such as marble are key. “When the Hamptons were settled in the 1600s, homes were designed with long-lasting materials to withstand the elements,” says Belinda. Add luxe with a marble benchtop or side table, such as Hamptons At Home’s ‘Klein’ table.
“I think people are over jumping from one style to the next and the Hamptons look is a true classic for all ages”
Natalee Bowen, Indah Island
7. An elegant exterior
The kerb appeal is just as important as your Hamptons style interior scheme. Bring a sense of grandeur to porches and verandahs with architectural features such as gables, columns and fretwork.
8. Chic outdoor furniture
Create a seamless flow between indoors and out by keeping the design and colour choices consistent – your outdoor furniture should be the same style and colours as your interior. Wicker settings with white, blue or grey cushions are a classic option.
9. Graceful greenery
Once you have tended to the exterior of your home, turn your attention to the garden. A manicured lawn, tidy hedges and planter boxes filled with lush hydrangeas are the key features. “No Hamptons home is complete without greenery on the exterior,” says Natalee. “Go for magnolias, star jasmine and, if you have the time to watch it grow, wisteria.”
10. Clever cladding
“Homes in the Hamptons tend to have weatherboard cladding or shingles with symmetrical small-paned windows,” says interior designer Diane Bergeron. Opting for the right cladding is a sure-fire way to achieve a chic home inside and out. “You can’t have a Hamptons home without shadow lines,” explains Natalee. “In the US, these are created by shingles, which bleach in the sun to whites and light grey.” In Australia, an authentic look can be achieved with Scyon Linea Weatherboard. “It gives the look while also standing up to the harsh climate,” adds Natalee, the product’s ambassador.
Our fabulous Hamptons Homes special edition magazine is on sale now! 130 pages of coastal dreaming at your fingertips with decorating ideas and more expert tips to create your own Hamptons haven.
Look for a copy in selected newsagents and supermarkets or go here to buy immediately online and have it delivered to your door.
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10 easy ways to Hamptons style
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