How to incorporate Hamptons-inspired features throughout your home

The Hamptons look has been in vogue in Aussie homes for more than a decade, and there’s no doubt this classic style is here to stay.

You don’t necessarily need a little weatherboard cottage or gabled roof to achieve this popular look. By changing some fixtures, furniture and accessories, and adding a fresh coat of paint, you can achieve this beachy, relaxed vibe in any home.

Create symmetry in your living room

The classic Hamptons palette is white with blue accents. But, over the years, the blue has sometimes been swapped for shades of muted grey or even greens. Colour can be incorporated with lampshades or bases; white sofas with plump blue cushions in varying shades can be paired with blue ceramics such as vases or pots.

“Australians love the versatility of the Hamptons style,” says interior designer Alison Lewis. “It can be coastal, classic, modern, minimalist or luxe.”

If you’re lucky enough to have beautiful timber floors, add a rug in a natural rattan colour. Terracotta pots and marble are other natural materials sneaking into this style. Hang a beachy artwork and strategically place a fiddle leaf fig in your living room to add to the coastal feel.

“Soft colour palettes of green, blue, white and nude, coupled with natural textures such jute, sisal, linen and timber, ensure the look stands the test of time,” says Lewis.

Hamptons style is also about connecting socially, so an emphasis is placed on large comfy sofas, cushions and armchairs, creating balance on either side.

“It’s not based around the modern TV cabinet. It’s about being really social and connecting and creating a setting within the spaces. The way they style is very symmetrical. The room is very balanced,” says interior designer Nicola Murray of She Creates Co.

Add a touch of luxury in the bathroom

A Hamptons-style bathroom is light-filled with traditional touches and can be achieved without a full demolition. If the tiles are already white, you’re off to a good start.

“Have wall panelling running through to the bathroom, so it’s cohesive with the rest of the home,” says Murray.

Sit a rectangular matt white basin, such as the Modella Concerto Above Counter Basin, on top of a vanity to create the popular farmhouse sink vibe seen in many kitchens. Pair this sink with a marble vanity top to add a luxe feel.

Chrome taps and a tall basin mixer will work well with the tall sides of the basin. Otherwise, a plumber can install wall-mounted squared taps at a height suitable. A classic, white shaving cabinet is practical and will complement the detail in the vanity.

The shower has moved from being a solely functional space to a relaxing sanctuary. Traditional chrome or brass taps and a round, soaking showerhead can add a touch of luxury. Chrome-plated gooseneck showerheads with ceramic detailed lever taps can be installed by a plumber, instantly adding a traditional Hamptons feel.

For the ultimate bathroom statement piece, install a free-standing bath and end the day soaking in a deep tub surrounded by fresh, white fluffy towels and beautiful candles.

Incorporate Shaker-style cabinetry and fixtures

The beautiful joinery in a classic Hamptons style kitchen can be achieved without a major reno. Swap out the splashback for a marble look or subway tiles; kitchen cabinet doors can be replaced with Shaker doors in white or blue; and adding an industrial pendant light over an island bench can make a striking feature.

Chrome or brushed nickel tapware contrasts well against a white sink – a traditional brass hand lever tap is another classic Hamptons look.

Murray says, “the good thing about Hamptons style is that it’s very timeless. It has a unique character that’s quite beautiful. It doesn’t date.”