Introducing the Elegant Coastal Look
To replicate the Hamptons style, blend white, grey, soft blues and natural textures for a breezy, elegant coastal look with plush furniture and rattan.
NEW YORK – One of the most enduring decorating styles to come out of the United States is the Hamptons. Think soft neutral colors, wooden floorboards and white and black furniture which comes together for a sophisticated, elegant coastal look.
The style originated on the East Coast, among the wealthy enclave of The Hamptons on Long Island's South Fork.
The collection of seaside communities is a popular summer destination for affluent New Yorkers. The style references French interior design styles Baroque, Rococo and Empire.
So, what are the key elements of bringing a touch of the Hamptons to your own home?
White and grey are integral to achieving a Hamptons look in your home. Don't go too dark with your choice of grey. The aim is keep the look light and breezy with lots of natural light.
In her blog 'Making Your Home Beautiful', interior designer Samantha Bacon advises people to consider whether they prefer warm or cool grey. Samantha says she generally specifies warm greys that are almost a greige for a Hamptons style.
Once you have your blank canvas of white and grey, introduce colors like soft blues, greens and navy via accessories, art works, upholstery cushions and throws.
Furniture should be kept to white and black. Other pieces which are key to the look include linen upholstered sofas with plenty of throw pillows, rattan chairs to add texture and leather accent chairs and distressed timber furniture in limed oak, washed grey and milk paint or dark timber as a contrast.
Furniture should be plush and comfortable making you want to sink into them with a glass of wine and good book.
On your windows consider sheer fabrics in sandy taupe, soft grey or white for relaxed draped curtains. White plantation shutters are also a fabulous window treatment.
To add warmth and texture consider blue and white striped rugs or soft neutral sisal or carpet on the floors and large glass pendant lights with brass touches. Samantha says table lamps should be pretty and either in a basket weave or made from ceramic with a simple drum or empire linen lampshades.
Scatter blue and white china and accessories throughout. Other accessories that work well include candles, rattan or leather trays, books and indoor plants.
If you are lucky enough to have a fireplace, immerse it into the rest of the style by adding a white timber mantel piece and surround in a classic style.
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