The illusive 'Hamptons Style'
This particular blog is quite possibly my form of a rant at the general over-use and misconception of this beautiful design style that is the Hamptons Style. As a Designer I've had far too many clients that want a 'Hamptons Style' home but don't really know what that means. So lets break it down ...
The Hamptons is a coastal town just outside of New York where the elite holiday makers had their holiday homes. The inspiration for the Hamptons Home was born out of a glossy magazine spread that featured the casual sophistication of seaside homes in Hamptons and the individually, beautifully crafted coastal chic furniture and housewares that are in most style genres and periods.Together, they create a space that exudes understated grandeur and luxury but with clean, modern lines. If I was to try and define this style, it would have some very important key elements.
Photo credits to hamptonsathome.com.au
Large picture windows with ocean views, sheer fabrics in sandy taupe, soft grey or white for relaxed draped curtains. Use throws and cushions to add texture and colour as well as some fresh flowers in colours that complement the room — white is always a safe choice.
Photo credits to saltatshoalbay.com.au
Cane or wicker furniture and accessories for indoors or outside. Hamptons homes tend to be about classic style so opt for timeless furniture pieces in neutral colours rather than what's on-trend. Distressed timber furniture in limed oak, washed grey and milk paint or dark timber as a contrast. Achieve the perfect balance between refined yet relaxed living with soft, time-worn linens, rustic timber furniture and timber oak flooring.
Photo credits to alfrescoemporium.com.au
Printed linen and plenty of blue accents take Hampton style to any space. Blue and white striped rugs or soft neutral sisal or carpet. Big comfy sofas in relaxed linen fabrics with plenty of throw pillows. Large glass pendant lights with brass touches
Photo credits to alfrescoemporium.com.au
Blue and white china and accessories scattered throughout and woven baskets are a decorative storage solution and are an easy way to add a bit of seaside style to the room.
Photo credits to queenslandhomes.com.au
Hamptons-style kitchens are predominately white so it's important to pay particular attention to the finishing details such as mouldings, tiles and handles, all which will add layers of texture and interest.Panelled, white shaker-style cabinetry is typical of Hamptons style homes, finished with hooded pulls and knobs in silver or chrome. No Hamptons kitchen would be complete without some statement pendant lights and bar stools to tie the look together and add a decorative touch.
To sum it up, Hamptons is the look of contemporary casual luxury married with classic coastal style decorating. Classic contemporary design, a dominant element in the Hamptons fashion, adapts superbly to a variety of interior styles. For this reason, styling the Hampton's way will always reflect refined taste and never outdate itself.
