Have you ever wondered what it is that is so appealing about the Hampton’s style of design? Why has it become synonymous with affluence and grandeur? Why is it that even in Brisbane, the ‘Hamptons home’ has become a renowned and lusted-after style of architecture, often requested from luxury home Builders in Brisbane? The answer is surprisingly simple and will be discussed in this article, along with some suggestions on how to apply the ‘Hamptons style’ to the interiors of your own home (check out our previous article on ‘Hamptons style’ exteriors HERE).
What is the appeal of the Hampton’s Style?
Our lives grow increasingly more complex and intricate with available “down time” near extinction. This increasing complexity has also infiltrated the design of the modern home with the distinction between secular, personal and social space blurred in modern design. What was once regarded as a relaxing, social space has now morphed into a quasi-workspace (the home office and home gym are perfect examples). Perhaps it is for this reason that the comfortable yet elegant interiors of the ‘Hamptons style’ homes that draws us. And here lies the answer to the question of the appeal of the ‘Hamptons style’. The answer can be defined by a single word: relaxing.
The Hamptons interior unashamedly announces itself as a relaxed spaced for enjoyment and leisure. Just as the Hamptons has long-served as a release valve for the urban pressures of New York City, the Hampton’s style interior invites the user to take reprieve from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The psychological and emotional feel of the Hampton’s style interior is one of comfort, ease and effortlessness.
The Hamptons style defined
The ‘Hamptons style’ is an eclectic design of two seemingly opposing design elements – simplicity and sophistication. This aesthetic is particularly prominent in the interiors where elements of comfort and contrast are prominent. When done correctly, this style can create an inviting, relaxing space in which the occupants feel comfortable and stress-free. But beware when applying this design aesthetic to your own home project. There is a delicate balance between creating a timeless ‘Hampton’s style’ design and a tacky faux-Hampton’s style home. So how do you apply this design to your own home or renovation project in Brisbane?
Employ the services of a professional
The first and perhaps most important advice is to employ the services of a professional builder who specializes in the ‘Hamptons look’. Build Prestige Homes have experience and a beautiful portfolio of classic ‘Hamptons-style’ homes, adapted to the Brisbane environment. They are a great resource for discussing your project and for ensuring your design is coherent and truly emulates the ‘Hamptons look’.
The use of light
An abundance of natural light is important in any home and particularly those which are emulating the ‘Hamptons style’. When designing for your own project, incorporate large areas of glazing to capitalize on available natural light. Consider large windows, sliding doors, and French doors. When window coverings are needed for privacy, select shutters, semi-transparent blinds or linen drapes.
(source: http://www.homebunch.com/classic-hamptons-beach-house/)
(Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/411938697144018063/)
(Source: http://www.houseofturquoise.com/2014/03/bliss-home-design.html)
Natural materials
Another prominent feature of the Hamptons interior style is natural materials. Wood and stone floors hint at the early settler influence on the Hamptons design. Textured natural fibers (such as linen and sheers, rattan and wicker) and soft furnishings (such as rugs and soft drapes) are contrasted with more sophisticated surfaces (such as polished stone and dark metals) to create an appealing balance of simplicity and sophistication.
(Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/230739180880921060/)
(Source: www.mypinksketchbook.blogspot.com.au)
A light colour palette
The colour palette of the ‘Hamptons style’ of interior is again influenced by its relaxed, light and breezy design philosophy. The palette typically includes whites, neutrals and naturals but may also feature vaguely nautical shades (such as pale blue and sage green). The light and soft colour palette is often accented with a few dark, contrasting tones. But beware not to become too heavy in the use of contrast or dark tones when applying this to your own project, as this will make your interiors dark and overbearing. If in doubt, seek the advice of the seasoned professionals at Build Prestige Homes.
(Source: Build Prestige Homes, www.buildprestigehomes.com.au)
Soft, comfy furnishings
When designing a ‘Hampton’s style’ home, the furnishings selected should reinforce the relaxed psychology of the space. They should be warm, welcoming and enjoyable. Loose furniture items such as lounges and chairs should be casual but not cheap, comfortable but not oversized and unrefined. Keep in mind the Hamptons use of contrast. Combine soft, cushioned and upholstered elements with smooth timber features and combine contemporary and traditional elements together.
(Source: http://www.architecturaldigest.com/decor/2013-07/louise-vince-camuto-villa-maria-long-island-house-slideshow_slideshow_item2_3)
(Source: http://www.architecturaldigest.com/decor/2015-07/victoria-hagan-nantucket-family-summer-home-slideshow_slideshow_item2_3)
The use of accessories
Within the Hamptons interior, decorative items can be a mix of traditional, classic and contemporary looks. Books, flowers and greenery are an absolute must. Accessories can be layered together to add to the feel of the room as a whole. If you are selecting an eye-catching feature for a room, keep in mind that the ‘Hamptons style’ interior is all about simplicity and sophistication, so keep standout features to a maximum of just one or two per room, to ensure multiple elements are not competing for attention.
(Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/411938697143745425/)
(Source: Vogue)
(Source: http://mypinksketchbook.blogspot.com.au/2010/07/too-blue-or-not-too-blue.html)
If you would like further information on Hamptons style interiors or building your Hamptons style dream home in Brisbane, please do not hesitate to contact the team of experienced luxury home builders at Build Prestige Homes. We are a boutique design and construct home building company servicing the greater Brisbane area so contact us if you are looking for a fantastic Brisbane builder.
Written by Anne Smerdon for Build Prestige Homes
Brisbane builder, home builder, best Brisbane builder, design and construct, luxury homes, new home builder.