The Hamptons style is a timeless design that brings the relaxed elegance of coastal regions into homes everywhere. It's no surprise that this look has become so popular, with its classic blend of soft neutrals, airy textures, and inviting spaces. If you're an interior decorator looking to create a Hamptons-inspired space, mastering the core elements of this style can make all the difference. Let's take a look at exactly how to capture the sophistication and laid-back vibe of Hamptons interiors in every room of a home with expert tips from Tahn Interiors, an Interior Decorator Brisbane.
1. Start with a Light and Airy Colour Palette
The first thing that stands out about Hamptons interiors is their light and neutral colour palette, which sets the tone for a coastal-inspired and tranquil environment. Traditional Hamptons-style homes feature whites, creams, soft blues, and gentle greys. Using these hues as a base allows light to flow freely throughout the space, which is especially important if the home has plenty of natural light.
Soft tones like ivory, dove grey, and cool blue create an understated elegance that aligns with the coastal theme. Interior decorators can use these tones on walls, cabinetry, and large furnishings. By keeping the colours light, decorators provide a blank canvas to add other textural and decorative elements. Adding hints of deeper blue or green can also accentuate the coastal feeling, bringing in a fresh, beachy vibe without over complicating the space.
2. Be Selective With Materials
Natural materials play a key role in Hamptons style, adding texture and warmth to the otherwise clean and minimalist palette. When selecting materials, think about items that bring a sense of the outdoors inside. For flooring, light-toned wood like oak, maple, or even reclaimed wood can help to create a natural look.
Rattan, wicker, and seagrass are popular for accent furniture, rugs, and decorative baskets, adding a touch of the beach without feeling over the top. These materials are stylish but also practical, as they add durability and texture that stands up well over time. Stone countertops, often in soft white or light grey, also fit seamlessly with the Hamptons aesthetic. Marble and limestone, in particular, offer a sophisticated yet natural look that complements the coastal feel.
3. Embrace Open Spaces
One of the biggest perks of Hamptons interiors is a layout designed for entertaining and socialising. Rooms are typically spacious and open, flowing effortlessly from one area to the next. Creating these open spaces not only enhances the feeling of airiness but also makes the home feel more welcoming and functional.
To encourage conversation and ease of movement, arrange seating in close and cosy clusters with enough room for circulation. For instance, a large sectional sofa paired with armchairs and a coffee table encourages gatherings and feels accessible from all sides. Adding a large ottoman or stylish bench seats also gives guests a place to sit while keeping the space visually balanced. You can enhance this effect by layering rugs to define different areas within the open floor plan, such as the dining space, living area and entryway.
4. Make Use of Natural Light and Elegant Lighting Fixtures
Hamptons interiors celebrate natural light, often maximising windows, glass doors, and light-toned curtains to brighten the rooms. Allowing as much sunlight as possible keeps the space feeling fresh and airy. In cases where natural light is limited, decorators can use mirrors strategically to reflect light and open up the room.
In addition to natural light, layered lighting is crucial. Chandeliers with a classic or nautical design make great focal points, particularly above dining tables or in entryways. Wall sconces, pendant lights, and table lamps in soft white or metallic finishes add warmth and ambiance without detracting from the style's relaxed vibe. Lantern-style lighting fixtures are also a popular choice for adding a subtle touch of coastal flair.
5. Balancing Luxury with Comfort
A Hamptons-style home strikes a balance between luxury and comfort, making every room feel elegant yet livable. Achieving this look means incorporating plush, high-quality furniture that invites relaxation. Oversized sofas with deep cushions, armchairs with soft upholstery, and cosy throws give an air of sophistication without sacrificing comfort.
Textured linens, cotton, and even wool throws add a sense of cosiness, especially in living areas and bedrooms. To maintain a luxurious feel, choose upholstery in durable, natural fabrics like linen or cotton. Throw pillows in muted coastal hues or subtle patterns can add layers and depth to the furniture while aligning with the Hamptons aesthetic.
6. Subtle Coastal-Inspired Décor
Accessories and décor items in Hamptons-style interiors should subtly reflect the coastal theme without feeling overly thematic. Decorators often select artwork with abstract ocean scenes, soft beach landscapes, or other nature-inspired motifs to echo the Hamptons' seaside roots. Avoid items that feel overly nautical; instead, look for subtle ways to bring in beach elements through materials and textures.
In the kitchen, classic white ceramic dinnerware, glass jars, and cutting boards in light-toned wood continue the coastal look. Using weathered wood frames, woven baskets, or glass vases with sprigs of greenery in living spaces keeps the décor natural and understated. At the same time, a few carefully chosen items like coral, driftwood, or decorative shells can hint at the coastal inspiration without becoming too literal.
7. Choose Timeless Furniture
Hamptons interiors are all about quality and durability, favouring pieces that are both beautiful and timeless. Selecting furniture that feels classic but also durable is key for creating a long-lasting look. Many designers choose custom furniture or invest in well crafted, ready-made pieces that align with the home's aesthetic while offering longevity.
In the dining area, long, wooden tables in light tones paired with upholstered chairs or simple wooden seats help create an inviting, timeless space for family meals or gatherings. For outdoor furniture, which is essential in Hamptons homes, decorators typically choose sturdy teak or rattan that can withstand the elements while still looking chic.
8. Highlight Architectural Details
If the home already has architectural details such as wainscoting, crown molding, or coffered ceilings, embrace these elements, as they naturally complement the Hamptons style. These features add an extra layer of sophistication, particularly in homes aiming for a high-end look. For homes without these details, consider adding subtle woodwork to walls or ceilings to elevate the room's design.
Panelled walls painted in a fresh white can add texture and visual interest to spaces like the entryway or living room. These touches, paired with elegant furniture, create an overall sense of harmony and classic design that is central to the Hamptons look.
9. Add Greenery and Fresh Florals
Plants and fresh flowers are excellent ways to introduce life and colour into Hamptons-style homes. Think about adding potted plants, fiddle leaf figs, or even large palm leaves in tall vases for an elegant, tropical-inspired look. These natural touches reinforce the connection to the outdoors and enhance the space's freshness.
For florals, consider simple, fresh arrangements in muted colours that complement the home's colour palette. White hydrangeas, for instance, are a classic choice that looks beautiful against the neutral tones of Hamptons interiors.
10. Keep It Simple and Functional
A hallmark of Hamptons style is its simplicity and functionality. Each piece in the home should have a purpose, with minimal clutter and a focus on practicality. This does not mean sacrificing style; instead, it involves selecting functional yet beautiful pieces that enhance the home's usability.
Consider using storage options that blend into the design, like built-in shelving, storage ottomans, or cabinets with clean lines and classic hardware. By keeping surfaces clear and organised, the home maintains its relaxed, uncluttered atmosphere.
Creating Style Harmony
The Hamptons style is all about creating a home that feels like a tranquil escape, blending sophistication with a relaxing coastal charm. As an interior decorator, bringing this style into a client's space involves thoughtfully layering elements that balance all aspects including beauty and function, luxury, and comfort. With a focus on light, open spaces, quality materials, and understated elegance, a Hamptons-inspired space should feel both timeless and effortlessly inviting.
