The Hamptons may be the preferred holiday destination of many tired New Yorkers, but it also happens to be one of the most popular residential building styles in Australia, thanks to its relaxed and light-filled aesthetic.
If you’re looking to build in the Hamptons style in 2019, there are plenty of ways you can bring this look to life.
Indoor / outdoor
The Hamptons style is associated with vacations, so this influences the design. A home built in this style emphasises light and space, with large open-plan areas that seamlessly transition from inside to out.
This means features like bi-fold or classic French doors that connect living spaces with outdoor entertaining spaces, or kitchens with foldaway windows that provide access to an outdoor bar. Large windows are also essential to allow for maximum natural light.
Weatherboard cladding
Weatherboard has come a long way since its inception and with new technology now available, it’s an essential part of any Australian Hamptons home. With most weatherboards available to purchase with a coat of paint already on, it’s an easy and affordable option too.
Much of the appeal of a Hamptons-style home comes from having an eye-catching facade. While homes in the Hamptons are traditionally clad with timber or shingles, the tropical climate of Australia and the Gold Coast in particular has seen the Australian take on the style move toward timber-look weatherboard. This is a durable and low-maintenance solution for a Hamptons look result.
Timeless tone and texture
While the Hamptons style is distinct, there’s also an element of timelessness, with design features that stand the test of time. Shaker-style cabinetry, neutral benchtops and classic chrome tapware are commonly featured, while more often than not, the floors are covered in timber. The colour scheme is also quite neutral, with whites and greys dominating and occasional touches of blue. This serves to emphasise the airiness and brightness of the space.
Soft furnishings, such as rugs and patterned cushions, can also be layered to contrast against the neutral palette. Consistency is key with the Hamptons style – whatever design decisions you make, make sure they appear throughout the house, instead of just one or two rooms.
Panels and shutters
With 12-pane windows letting in buckets of natural light, some type of window coverings is essential. Shutters are the design of choice in Hamptons homes, adding to the coastal feel. These can be complemented with panelling as a main feature on the walls. Together with the timber floors, fixtures and furnishings, it creates a clean-lined aesthetic.
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