The Complete Guide to Hampton Style Interior Design

Close your eyes and picture this: sunlight streaming through wide windows, a soft ocean breeze drifting across white linen curtains, and a living room that feels calm yet elegant. That’s the essence of Hamptons style interior design, a look that has charmed homeowners around the world.

If you’ve ever wished your home could feel breezy, bright, and timeless, then Hamptons style might just be what you’ve been searching for. What started on the sandy shores of Long Island, New York, has now become a global design movement, embraced everywhere from Sydney to London to Singapore. And the reason is simple: Hamptons style blends relaxed coastal comfort with refined sophistication, creating spaces that feel as good as they look.

But what exactly makes this style so distinctive, and why does it resonate across different cultures and climates? Let’s dive deeper and unpack what Hamptons style interior design really is.

What Is Hamptons Style Interior Design?

Hamptons style interior design is a way of decorating your home that combines coastal comfort with classic elegance, defined by light-filled spaces, natural materials, and a calm, breezy palette that makes any home feel relaxed yet refined.

The style is easy to spot: white walls, light and airy rooms, natural materials like timber and linen, and soft colors such as blues, greys, and sandy neutrals. Furniture is comfortable but polished — big sofas, timber dining tables, and simple yet stylish cabinetry.

In short, Hamptons style makes a home feel bright, breezy, and timeless. It’s not only for beach houses — it works just as well in city apartments, suburban homes, or country houses.

The Origins of Hamptons Style

Hamptons style takes its name from The Hamptons, a coastal region in Long Island, New York. In the early 20th century, it became the summer retreat of New York’s wealthy elite. Their homes combined coastal comfort with elegant architectural details — wide verandas, light-filled rooms, and high-end finishes.

Fast forward to today, and the look has become a global design movement. Interior designers everywhere have reinterpreted it, tailoring the palette and materials to suit different climates and cultures.

Key Features That Define Hamptons Style

The Color Palette

At the heart of Hamptons style is a soft, calming palette. White takes the lead, setting a crisp, clean backdrop that makes rooms feel spacious and airy. Layered with sandy beiges, warm neutrals, and ocean-inspired blues, the palette reflects the coast without being overwhelming. A pop of navy or charcoal is often added for contrast, giving depth and balance. The result? A space that feels fresh, bright, and timeless.

Natural Materials

Nature plays a big role in Hamptons interiors. Timber floors (often whitewashed or lightly stained), linen curtains, rattan chairs, and jute rugs all add texture and warmth. Stone and marble are also common, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, where they bring a touch of luxury. These natural finishes not only connect the style to its coastal roots but also ensure the look feels inviting rather than sterile.

Comfortable Yet Refined Furniture

Hamptons homes are made for living and entertaining. Expect oversized linen sofas with plump cushions, deep armchairs, timber dining tables built for family gatherings, and upholstered headboards that add softness to bedrooms. The key is comfort paired with elegance — furniture should feel generous and inviting without losing its polished edge.

Lighting

Lighting is both practical and decorative in Hamptons style. Pendant lights over a kitchen island, lantern-style fixtures in hallways, and lamps with ceramic or glass bases in living spaces all help create layers of light. The goal is to maximise natural brightness during the day and add a warm, welcoming glow in the evenings. Statement lighting often doubles as a design feature, reinforcing the style’s elegant feel.

Decorative Detailing

The finishing touches are what give Hamptons interiors their timeless charm. Panelled walls (shiplap or wainscoting), coffered ceilings, and classic shaker cabinetry add texture and sophistication. Even small details, like hardware in brushed nickel or chrome, contribute to the polished look. These elements keep the style classic and refined, ensuring it never feels like a passing trend.

Room-by-Room Hamptons Inspiration

One of the best things about Hamptons style is its versatility — it can be applied to every room in your home while keeping a consistent look. Here’s how it comes to life, space by space:

Living Room

The living room is the heart of the home, and in Hamptons style, it’s designed for comfort and connection. Picture oversized linen sofas with plump cushions, a woven or sisal rug underfoot, and a large coffee table for family gatherings. Add natural touches like rattan baskets, coastal-inspired artwork, or driftwood accents to bring warmth and personality. Layered lighting — from table lamps to statement pendants — makes the space inviting day and night.

Kitchen

The kitchen is often the showpiece of a Hamptons home. Shaker-style cabinets in crisp white or soft grey set the tone, while marble or stone countertops add elegance. A large island becomes the centre of activity, complete with pendant lighting and bar stools for casual dining. Open shelving or glass-front cabinetry is common, giving the space a sense of openness while allowing you to showcase ceramics or glassware.

Dining Room

In the dining room, simplicity meets sophistication. A sturdy timber dining table anchors the space, paired with upholstered or cross-back chairs for a classic touch. Lighting is key — a statement chandelier or pendant light hanging above the table creates a warm, intimate feel. Adding linen napkins, ceramic vases, or fresh greenery can instantly bring the Hamptons mood to life.

Bedroom

Hamptons bedrooms are designed to feel like a calm retreat. Neutral tones with soft accents of blue or grey create a restful palette. Upholstered or padded headboards, layered with crisp linen sheets and cozy throws, bring both comfort and style. Sheer curtains allow natural light to filter through, keeping the space airy, while bedside lamps with soft shades add to the relaxing ambiance.

Bathroom

A Hamptons bathroom combines practicality with spa-like elegance. White subway tiles keep it classic, while chrome or brushed brass fixtures add a refined finish. A freestanding tub often becomes the focal point, paired with stone or marble accents. Woven baskets for storage, potted plants, and plush white towels add the finishing touches, keeping the look both fresh and functional.

Outdoor Spaces

Hamptons style isn’t limited to the indoors. Outdoor living areas carry the same sense of relaxed elegance. Think wicker or rattan furniture with soft cushions, outdoor rugs layered for comfort, and generous use of greenery in ceramic pots. Whether it’s a balcony, patio, or full backyard, the goal is to create a breezy, coastal-inspired escape where you can unwind or entertain with ease.

Global Interpretations of Hamptons Style

One of the reasons this design is so popular is its adaptability.

• In the U.S.: Traditional Hamptons homes focus on luxury, symmetry, and classic detailing.

• In Europe: The look often merges with modern elegance, incorporating muted palettes and sleeker finishes.

• In Asia: Tropical versions incorporate rattan, bamboo, and designs that maximize airflow.

• Worldwide: The essence remains — a light, timeless, and welcoming atmosphere.

Hamptons Style vs. Coastal Style

It’s easy to confuse Hamptons style with coastal style, but here’s the difference:

• Coastal style is casual, beach-inspired, and rustic.

• Hamptons style is refined, polished, and more symmetrical — essentially coastal’s elegant cousin.

If you want a home that feels breezy but also timeless and upscale, Hamptons is the way to go.

Can You Create Hamptons Style on Your Own?

The short answer is yes — many of the core elements of Hamptons style, like a soft color palette, natural materials, and layered textures, can be achieved with some careful planning and shopping.

You could start by painting walls crisp white, choosing linen-look fabrics, or adding coastal-inspired accents such as woven rugs or rattan chairs. With time and patience, it’s possible to pull together a Hamptons-inspired space on your own.

But here’s the catch: Hamptons style is all about balance and detail. The difference between a space that feels “coastal themed” and one that truly captures Hamptons elegance often comes down to scale, proportion, and how all the design elements work together. That’s where things can get tricky if you’re going it alone.

An interior design expert can help you:

• Avoid common mistakes like over-cluttering or mixing the wrong tones.

• Choose the right investment pieces that anchor the room and last for years.

• Tailor the look to your home’s layout, lighting, and lifestyle — so it feels authentic, not copied from a magazine.

  
  

So while DIY can get you part of the way there, working with a designer ensures your home captures the true essence of Hamptons style — calm, elegant, and timeless.

Current Trends in Hamptons Interiors

• Neutral palettes now include soft greens and greys.

• Eco-conscious designers are swapping traditional finishes for sustainable alternatives.

• Blending Hamptons with modern minimalism for a fresher, updated take.

Designer Tips to Nail the Look

• Layer textures — combine linen, jute, timber, and glass.

• Use mirrors to enhance natural light.

• Balance symmetry (matching lamps, pairs of chairs) with a few relaxed touches.

• Don’t rush — start small and let the style grow through thoughtful details.

  
  

Conclusion

Hamptons style interior design is much more than just a “beach house look.” It’s about creating a home that feels bright, calm, and elegant, no matter where you live. From the crisp color palette to timeless finishes and comfortable furniture, it’s a design that never goes out of fashion.

If you’re dreaming of a home that blends coastal comfort with timeless elegance, our team at Cohere can help bring your vision to life. Contact us today to start your Hamptons-style transformation.