What is a Hamptons style home?
Hamptons style homes are modelled after the dwellings in, unsurprisingly, the Hamptons, an affluent area at the east end of Long Island that’s a popular holiday spot for New Yorkers in search of some serious rest and relaxation.
The Hamptons area is known for its gorgeous beaches, dramatic dunes, shingled windmills, historic charm and rural magic. So, what is a Hamptons style home?
Hamptons style homes are designed to be light, bright and whitewashed with a sophisticated beachy vibe that replicates the luxurious feel of the Hamptons area. Hamptons style homes are the American version of the French styles of Baroque, Rococo and Empire, with five key characteristics:
- Weatherboard-style exterior cladding
- Space and light with French windows and large doors
- Timber floors and staircases
- White as the hero with accents of neutrals, greens, blues, pinks and greys
- Shaker-style kitchens (featuring classic cabinetry with bevelled edges)
Fortunately for Australians, Hamptons style homes are absolutely perfect for the coastline of Australia, and putting an Australian twist on the classic Hamptons style is now a very popular option for homebuilders.
Due to their emphasis on space, lightness and brightness, Hamptons style homes commonly feature rooms that blend indoor and outdoor living, which matches the Australian coastal lifestyle to a tee.
And Hamptons style homes aren’t just popular on the coast of Australia. This style is now a preferred design for inland areas of Australia too, with the timelessness and freshness of the style lending well to hot, natural climates.
Start with the exterior
So, how to create a Hamptons style home? Start with the exterior and work your way in! For building a Hamptons style home from the ground up, you’ll want to choose materials that complement each other in colour but contrast in texture to create stunning depth and an authentic Hamptons look.
As we mentioned before, weatherboard cladding is a distinctive Hamptons exterior material, adding clean, contrasting lines that work perfectly with white window frames and white timber balcony railings. You could go for contrasting colour window shutters in a light charcoal or dark forest green to really elevate your Hamptons style home.
The exteriors of Hamptons style homes are organic with a focus on subtlety, and best suit materials that have come from the earth. Balmoral Weatherboards from Cemintel are a modern take on the timeless weatherboard, as they’re made from fibre cement that won’t shrink or crack over time. Their clean horizontal lines and wood-grain texture create that perfect contrast you’re looking to create with your Hamptons style home.
