Perhaps the most recognisable and iconic of all, the coastal Hamptons style is more relaxed than its high-end traditional cousin.
Known for its deep navy blues and bold striped designs, the Coastal Hamptons style is often associated with a beachy blue and white aesthetic. Depleted of the fuss of a classic home, its simplicity is what has made it such a favourite for homeowners. Pared back to simple lines with layers and layers of white, this look may well be the 101 of Hamptons design.
The first step with styling a Coastal Hamptons house is to identify whether you are drawn more to the nautical, traditional, navy and white aesthetic or the fresh, laid back, modernised coastal vouge.
The basics remain the same for both. The external linear weatherboard in a soft grey with white trims is quintessential of this relaxed-style home. Balcony balustrades in a simple spindle or a cross design add that beach-house feel to the facade, while a porthole window adds another nautical element to the design.
On the walls inside, Hardie Groove panelling takes the place of formal wainscoting and its height knows no limits, even across your ceilings paired with some reclaimed timber beams for subtle texture. Timber floorboards in a whitewashed oak finish are a must-have, and the staircase, while still remaining an eye-catching feature, now has more square lines with simple spindles and the whitewashed oak continuing up the steps.
A coastal kitchen should be a standout. Rather than heavy detail, we bring in simpler Shaker-style door fronts with a “less is more” approach. A statement island bench in any
shade of blue that your heart desires will never be wrong, and a couple of natural woven pendants hanging above will translate that coastal feeling. Polished nickel tapware would suit the traditional leanings of the nautical look, while a brushed brass would emphasis the modern coastal style.
In the bathroom, you can play it safe and casual with an all-white palette or allow your creative flair to take hold and choose bold-blue cabinetry. With waterproof Hardie Groove lining your walls vertically, the height of your space will be emphasised.
Coastal Hamptons décor
Whether coastal classic or coastal modern, there is a variety of decor items to add the final flourish to your home.
There are two distinct variations that fall under the Coastal Hamptons banner: the Coastal Classic, also known as Classic Nautical, and the Coastal Modern. In both styles, we see lots of rattan textures, whitewashed oak and soft linen upholstery grounded by jute rugs.
Coastal Classic
The Nautical Coastal style is iconic for its navy and white palette and for leaning heavily into striped upholstery. Timber furniture keeps the space grounded, while accents of rattan make it fun. Linen roll-arm sofas dressed in deep navy with contrast white piping are relaxed, deep and soft. Slip-cover armchairs are a wonderful way to change up your looks regularly without the cost of total reupholstery. Covers in a blue and white pattern or in a solid colour and a stripe cotton rug layered upon a larger jute rug for natural texture add visual interest. A white console behind a sofa is always a prime opportunity for vignette styling. Vignettes are comprised of personal seashell collections, blue spined books, coral and glass cloches. Framed wall art depicting yachts, coral in blue tones and other oceanic images all go well with this style of room. It would not be uncommon for a pair of boat oars to be hung over a window to truly embrace that nautical feel. Feature lighting is an opportunity to introduce some wow factor. Opt for wooden or wrought-iron materials with glass pendant shades. Outside and around the pool, the classic Adirondack chair truly captures the beachside aesthetic.
Coastal Modern
The Coastal Modern look is lighter and more organic with white on white, touches of pastel blue and lots of neutral linens. It speaks to the Australian beachside lifestyle and ensures the look continues indoors. Whitewashed oak and white furniture are key staples to start with, while blonde rattan pieces keep the space feeling cool and fresh. Soft linen sofas in a gentle blue are essential to the homely atmosphere of a Coastal Modern abode. Armchairs with a woven design are popular, adding a warm rattan element. Jute rugs are an obvious inclusion, and they may stand alone in the Coastal Modern home, rather than being layered. Patterns are not a priority in the upholstery, rather eco-conscious textiles are favoured. Materials used for feature lighting can get a bit more creative, using ropes, salvaged shells or whitewashed beads. Little vignette moments tell a story on each coffee and console table, via an assortment of clam shell bowls, magazines and ocean-scented candles.
This article originally appeared in Hamptons Living #1