The Hamptons are synonymous with luxury, elegance, and a breezy coastal lifestyle. Hamptons style homes reflect a perfect blend of sophistication and relaxed living, characterized by natural materials, soft color palettes, and a mix of classic and contemporary elements. Whether you’re building from scratch, renovating, or simply redecorating, here’s how to bring the timeless, effortless charm of the Hamptons to your own home.
Embrace a Light and Airy Color Palette
A hallmark of Hamptons style is its soothing, neutral color scheme. Think soft whites, muted grays, pale blues, and sandy beiges, which evoke the coastal environment. These shades create a serene, open atmosphere and allow natural light to bounce around the space, enhancing the home’s airy feel. When selecting paint colors, opt for soft, cool tones for walls and ceilings. Incorporate warm neutrals and natural textures to balance the coolness and add depth to the overall look.
Prioritize Natural Materials and Textures
The use of natural materials is key to achieving an authentic Hamptons look. Hardwood floors are a staple, often finished in light oak or painted white for a relaxed, beachy feel. Incorporate stone elements like marble or limestone in kitchens and bathrooms for added elegance. Rattan, wicker, and linen are popular choices for furniture and decor, bringing a tactile element that complements the coastal vibe.
Consider using shiplap or beadboard paneling on walls or ceilings for an extra layer of texture. These traditional features are not only visually appealing but also tie the space to its coastal roots.
Create Open, Inviting Spaces
Hamptons style homes are known for their open, expansive layouts that encourage easy movement and a sense of togetherness. Large living areas that flow seamlessly into dining spaces and open-plan kitchens are ideal. To maximize the sense of space, minimize clutter and keep furniture arrangements simple and functional.
High ceilings, oversized windows, and glass doors are also key features, as they enhance the flow of natural light and create a connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. If your home doesn’t have high ceilings, use vertical elements like tall bookshelves or floor-to-ceiling curtains to give the illusion of height.
Focus on Classic yet Comfortable Furniture
The furniture in a Hamptons style home should be both elegant and inviting. Choose classic, timeless pieces with clean lines, such as slipcovered sofas, upholstered armchairs, and wooden coffee tables. Comfort is paramount, so opt for plush seating with soft cushions in natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or velvet.
Avoid overly modern or ornate styles; instead, go for a blend of traditional and contemporary pieces that exude understated sophistication. Incorporate occasional tables, ottomans, and built-in shelving for a well-rounded, functional space.
Incorporate Coastal Elements and Nautical Hints
To fully capture the Hamptons aesthetic, subtly infuse the space with coastal and botanical elements. This doesn’t mean covering the house in seashells and anchors, but rather using tasteful touches like coral sculptures, driftwood accents, and nautical-inspired lighting. Blue and white striped or chintz cushions, woven baskets, and botanical prints can all contribute to the seaside feel without overwhelming the space.
Artwork is a great way to introduce subtle nods to nature. Consider seascapes, abstract beach scenes, or even black and white photographs of coastal landscapes.
Enhance with Elegant Details and Accessories
Hamptons style is all about understated luxury. Add elegance with thoughtfully chosen accessories such as oversized mirrors, classic ginger jars, statement pendant lights, and chic table lamps. Brass and chrome fixtures in kitchens and bathrooms can add a touch of glamour, while decorative items like ceramic vases, woven trays, and quality candles bring a personal and refined touch.
When it comes to window treatments, opt for simple, natural fabrics like linen or sheer curtains that let in plenty of light. Plantation shutters or Roman blinds can also work well, providing privacy without blocking sunlight.
Bring the Outdoors In
The Hamptons lifestyle is intrinsically linked to the outdoors, and this connection should be reflected in the home. Use large windows and doors to frame views of the garden, patio, or balcony. Bring greenery inside with potted plants, fresh flowers, and even small trees like fiddle leaf figs or olive trees. Natural light and fresh air should be allowed to flow freely through the home, enhancing the feeling of being connected to nature.
If you have outdoor space, create a seamless transition by designing a deck, patio, or veranda that mirrors the interior style. Outdoor furniture should be just as comfortable and inviting as indoor pieces, creating an extended living area perfect for entertaining or relaxing.
Pay Attention to the Exterior
The exterior of a Hamptons home is just as important as the interior. Classic features include weatherboard cladding, white trim, and a gabled roof. A beautifully landscaped garden with manicured lawns, hedges, and flower beds can enhance the home’s curb appeal. Wrap-around porches and verandas are iconic features that not only add charm but also provide additional outdoor living space.
The classic Hamptons invites relaxation so an outdoor seating area is ideal. Soft furnishings are essential for bringing indoor comfort to your outdoor seating area. Opt for cushions and pillows in durable, weather-resistant fabrics like our collection of outdoor pillows that can withstand sun, rain, and mildew. Choose patterns that complement the Hamptons aesthetic, such as classic stripes, coastal motifs, chintz, or vintage florals in your chosen color palette.
Layer in a few throw blankets for cooler evenings, and consider adding an outdoor rug to define the seating area and provide a soft, cozy surface underfoot. Natural fiber rugs like jute or sisal can add texture and warmth, enhancing the relaxed, beachy vibe.
For a final touch, add some traditional lanterns to give your outdoor space a magical glow for those balmy evenings spent outside with friends.
Creating a Hamptons style home is about more than just the aesthetic; it’s about embodying a relaxed, yet refined way of living that celebrates the beauty of the coast. By focusing on a light and airy color palette, natural materials, and classic, comfortable furnishings, you can transform your home into a tranquil, elegant retreat reminiscent of the Hamptons. Whether you live near the sea or far from it, this timeless style offers a sophisticated, serene atmosphere that’s perfect for any location.