If you're struggling with the transition to fall and want to incorporate something bright and airy into your home décor, why not take a cue from the Hamptons? Long Island's south coast is known for wealthy residents who leave their New York City residences to live in beautiful beach houses during the summer months.
The Hamptons has a unique aesthetic, incorporating classic coastal motifs like shells and a nautical color palette while adding flashy elements to its historic 18th-century architecture. We spoke to Jennifer Mabry and Austin Handler of Mabry Handler Interior Design, a design firm serving the Hamptons, New York City, and Palm Beach, to find out if you're in the middle of a bustling city. Regardless, we've provided advice for bringing the coastal coolness home. Or a small town.
What defines Hamptons style?
Hampton's homes certainly bring beach elements indoors, from surfboards and conch shells to high ceilings and hydrangeas. But according to Handler, Hampton-style homes take the classic coastal look we know and love to the next level.
“Even our most casual beach cottage clients expect a certain level of design and sophistication from their Hamptons homes,” he says. “Gone are the days of a simple white cover and bowl with seashells, and that's a good thing.”
While the Hamptons doesn't have just one signature aesthetic, the proximity of these homes to New York City serves to enhance their design value. A simple seaside view is not enough. This style spotlights clean lines, minimalist furniture, and a classic color scheme of blue, white, and wood. Simple, beautiful, cozy and yet classy, these interiors provide the perfect summer getaway.
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When designing any part of your home, you should start with one simple question: “What will it be used for?” Mabry says this question is especially important when designing homes in the Hamptons due to its seasonal and event-centered nature.
Before beginning an interior design project, Mabry and Handler discuss residents' plans. You should also keep this conversation in mind as you incorporate inspiration from the Hamptons into your own home.
“Do they go out to the Hamptons and have cocktail parties and dinner parties?” Mabry asked. “Do they like to invite the whole family and go to the beach? Or do they like to invite the whole family over and go to the beach? Are you looking for a quiet retreat from the busyness of work and life?
Ponder these questions yourself, then plan what's most important to you. Once you have decided what function you want each room to have, you can start designing. That means incorporating blues and neutrals.
keep the color scheme cool
Hampton homes are known for their use of white and blue tones, and the hues blend in with the surrounding beachy atmosphere. And while trends and tastes have certainly changed over the years, Marbury says there's always blue on the coast.
“It might be a cliché, but we love blue rooms in the Hamptons,” she says. “Blue has been a favorite color in the Hamptons for both our customers and ourselves since we opened our business.”
But be careful not to go all-in with just one shade. Experiment with which blue tones you enjoy the most and use them sparingly. Sometimes the most soothing blues are the best. Mix your favorite colors with white, wood, and other neutrals for an understated nautical vibe. Whether you're actually on the beach, in a wooded area, or in the middle of a big city, you'll feel like you're relaxing at the port.
“Navy and cobalt can make a bold, statement statement. Sky blue or delft can be calming and soothing,” says Handler. “You can also reduce it to a virtually neutral blue tone.”
If blue doesn't work for you, other calming shades like pink, yellow, and green can give you a neutral yet uplifting spin.
Natural and neutral materials
Whether your Hamptons-style makeover is a decorative flourish or a full-on renovation, materials matter. And when it comes to the coast, it's all about natural, bright tones.
Mabry says the teal wood (think oak and walnut) “balances the sophisticated driftwood silhouette.” Check the appearance with furniture, flooring, or built-ins.
“Instead of dark-stained wood cabinets or paneling, use selved oak or walnut,” says Handler. “Use classic cedar shake shingles in soft beige or light gray.”
How to make your home feel like the Hamptons
If you're looking for more ways to incorporate Hamptons-inspired design into your space, Handler suggests calming your space. He favors clean color schemes and light wood cabinetry, but it's also important to embrace a beachy mindset.
“The best way to evoke the Hamptons aesthetic is to maintain a relaxed atmosphere while creating a balance of artistry and sophistication for which the Hamptons is known,” says Handler. “Instead of a seashell bowl, look for an interesting seashell sculpture. Rather than displaying a photo of a beach or waves, choose a semi-abstract seascape.”
You don't have to take the beach aesthetic literally to achieve a relaxed look. Combine neutral-toned décor with personal touches to find a blend of inspiration that works for you. Bright, airy, and inviting, you'll enjoy the best the Hamptons has to offer.
