Recreate the Hamptons at home with these simple design ideas

One of the most prominent elements of modern Hamptons style interiors is detailing on both the ceiling and walls. This can be as simple as shiplap ceilings and half-height shiplap walls or as complex as coffered ceilings, wainscoting on the walls or detailed panelling. Hamptons style living room ideas include using V-groove plywood to line the ceiling, giving that nautical look, and wainscoting around the bottom half of the walls to add the luxe feel of the Hamptons. Whatever detailing you decide to use, ensure it is all painted in a soft, bright white – a staple of the modern Hamptons style.

One of the consistent themes in Hamptons style is the use of stripes. Whether it’s on Hamptons style furniture, such as large comfy armchairs or sofas, or on walls through wide stripey wallpaper, it’s a trick that will give an instant ‘Hamptons’ aesthetic. Hamptons style bedroom furniture is one of the best ways to integrate stripes without going overboard; use a wide stripe for a more classic, high-end feel, and only use stripes in muted shades of dusty blue, faded red, and soft grey.

When it comes to Hamptons style kitchens and bathrooms, Hamptons minimalist style is what you want to aim for. This means using ‘Shaker’ cabinetry, which features a traditional look with minimalist coffered detailing on the cabinet fronts, and simple hardware such as round pewter knobs or classic brass cup pulls. To extend this style into the living spaces, integrate Shaker cabinet fronts into bookshelves and cupboards.

Hamptons style interior paint colours combine soft, bright whites with faded nautical colours such as dusty blue, duck egg, soft green, faded red and butter yellow. It’s important to avoid bright or overly saturated hues, as Hamptons style colour schemes aim to evoke an elegant aesthetic where interiors are high quality, yet cosy, faded and worn. The simplest way to integrate colour is to keep walls white and to use colour sparingly through furniture, curtains and décor elements.

There is nothing more Hamptons style than cross-backed chairs, whether they’re in the dining area, the living space, or high stools at the kitchen island. To complement these simple, nautical-style chairs, integrate simple lighting that features glass and metal framing. In the living spaces, comfort is key; overstuffed armchairs in traditional shapes with rolled arms combined with a low, wide coffee table are staples of modern Hampton style decorating. Don’t aim for minimalism when it comes to the décor. For example, pile books and ornaments on the coffee table, arranged in neat piles. One thing to avoid is kitsch elements that are overtly nautical; the key to nailing modern Hamptons style is to keep seaside references subtle.