While not a traditionally synonymous pairing, Modern and Hamptons have become an unlikely couple as a younger demographic embraces a minimalist and monochromatic atmosphere for their homes.
Rarely do we associate the minimalist modern trend with beachy Hamptons, but this unlikely duo is becoming increasingly popular. For those who love streamlined surfaces, less fuss and frills, yet still want to incorporate an elegance that will last, Modern Hamptons may be right for you!
With this style, the exterior weatherboard look gets a moody makeover when introducing a Modern Hamptons home to the streetscape. A black or deep-charcoal palette is emphasised with pops of crisp white in the trims and shutters for a sensational contrast. There is less detail and a straighter, square design for external features such as balustrades, fencing and doors.
A Modern Hamptons home is all but void of colour, but the interest and depth are introduced in the shades and tones of a neutral palette. While incorporating a hint of the Classic Hamptons style, the usual detailed half-height wainscoting gets a simpler profile and is taken all the way up the wall, to frame whole sections while still appearing minimalistic. Fresh white walls and trims are best to contrast dark, almost black timber floors, but if it is a little drama that you seek, a dark and moody feature wall can be breathtaking.
The staircase replaces timber spindles for thin iron rods, with a black riser and handrail. It’s the clean lines and simple details that categorise a Modern Hamptons home. The “heart of the home” may be dark and moody or light and bright — it all depends on your personality and preferences. In a modern kitchen, we find sleek cabinetry with integrated kitchen appliances hidden away and Carrara marble benchtops with strong veins throughout. Tapware is streamlined, a rumbled organic brass minus the glamour, or a sleek matt black finish. Cabinetry fronts are simplified with minimalist hardware to match, enhancing a masculine tone. In place of the classic glass-fronted overhead cupboards, you’ll find floating shelves of exposed timber or wrought iron. Feature pendants over an island call for subtlety, with clear glass shades and an antique bronze or a matt black chain.
Bathrooms with encaustic tiles in a few shades of grey can showcase some personality, paired with the staple white subway splashback tile in a glossy finish. Frameless mirrors on full-height marble walls and a statement pendant over the freestanding bath in a natural texture or an organic material brings it all back to its coastal roots.
Modern Hamptons décor
Pared back and with an emphasis on simplicity, the modern Hamptons LOOK is an exercise in restraint and style.
In a Modern Hamptons design, the colour palette remains very basic in the living room. Blanc en blanc in natural linen textures gives a subtle nod to the original Hamptons look, while I encourage you to play around with shades of grey. A restraint of colour is necessary in this style to bring an almost retro feel to the room. For a warmer alternative, neutral creams and caramels in fabrics and rugs work wonders to bring a classic edge into bedrooms and living rooms, introducing a coastal neutral tone that can soften the harshness of the straight lines. Natural linens are softer to the eye than harsh whites and is in keeping with the coastal heritage of the Hamptons.
Contemporary black and white art on grass-cloth wallpaper adds appeal as the texture highlights the walls, providing depth and detail. This look is not ostentatious but interesting at every glance. For a casual option, instead of hanging pictures on walls, you can simply lean them up against a wall on the floor, on a console or a fireplace mantle.
The living and dining spaces of a Modern home expertly combines soft curvature with strong lines. A round dining table paired with straight back, deep button upholstered chairs in a calming greige velvet give off a luxurious atmosphere. In the spacious living room, you can really start to play with the black and white effect, with a middle ground of grey. Solid furniture pieces in a Modern Hamptons home are substantive, using materials of iron, glass or timber for a touch of natural warmth.
Texture dominates over pattern as we remove almost all printed textiles, save for a grey and white striped rug layered over a larger jute. Velvet upholstery is best for cooler months or for modern homes with a high-end feel, or if you are after a more laid-back, minimal feel, linen remains the go-to fabric. Textures of wool and bouclé in rugs and cushions work wonders to compensate for the loss of printed fabrics. They add a warm, textural element to sofas. Curved-back armchairs and sofas with square-arm designs keep things simplified and soft.
If there is colour to be added, it is through ginger jars, vases and a layered rug over a jute area. Gold accents are also used to add sophistication, these appear in lamp bases, side tables and frames that will talk together instinctively. Vignettes include black- and white- spined books, gloss ceramic trays and uniquely shaped vases, with an eclectic inclusion of tribal accessories for texture and interest.
This article originally appeared in Hamptons Living #1