The classic Hamptons style has become synonymous with beachside elegance and timeless coastal living in Australia. It blends a relaxed yet sophisticated aesthetic that appeals to those looking to recreate the luxurious, laid-back atmosphere of beachside resorts right at home. While the Hamptons look varies, one particularly charming sub-style is the Hamptons resort-style home. This style incorporates elements of high-end resorts and spa-like indulgences, offering a sanctuary where relaxation meets refined living. In this guide, we explore how you can create your very own Hamptons resort home with ease.
1. Spa-Inspired Bathroom Retreats for a Hamptons Resort-Style Home
A hallmark of any Hamptons resort-style home is a bathroom designed for indulgence. Embrace a palette of clean white lines and high-end materials such as marble, travertine, or other natural stones to evoke a sense of luxury and calm. These materials, often seen in five-star resorts, help create an atmosphere of tranquility and elegance. Consider adding a freestanding bathtub as the focal point, ideally one with bubbling jets to give the ultimate spa-like experience.
If space allows, create a wet area that combines a large soaking tub with a rain shower. A glass partition can maintain the open, airy feel while keeping the space functional. Incorporate double vanities with brass or gold fixtures to add a touch of glamour. Small touches like fluffy towels, scented candles, and white robes enhance the feeling of an in-home retreat.
To truly elevate the space, integrate smart technology—think heated floors, mood lighting, and built-in speakers for relaxing music. Adding plants like ferns, orchids, or peace lilies can further promote relaxation, creating a seamless connection between the outdoors and your spa sanctuary. The key is to keep it light, bright, and open while adding subtle luxury elements that feel both opulent and natural.
Additionally, consider adding floor-to-ceiling windows to bring in natural light. Natural light not only enhances the ambiance but also provides a wellness benefit, contributing to a sense of rejuvenation and relaxation. If privacy is a concern, opt for frosted glass or strategically placed greenery outside the windows to maintain the serene feel while ensuring discretion.
2. Embrace Indoor-Outdoor Living
To embody the Hamptons resort style, focus on creating a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. The best way to achieve this is through open-plan living areas that connect with the outdoors using large sliding glass doors, French doors, or bi-fold windows. These architectural elements not only let in natural light but also blur the boundaries between your indoor and outdoor zones, making the space feel expansive and inviting.
Outdoor living areas such as verandas, patios, or poolside lounges enhance the feeling of spaciousness and relaxation. Think alfresco dining spaces that invite you to spend long summer evenings outside with family and friends. You can create multiple outdoor ‘zones,’ such as a dining area, a lounging space with plush sofas, and even a cozy nook for morning coffee.
To optimise this indoor-outdoor connection, consider extending the same flooring material from inside to your outdoor space for a unified look. Use light and natural tones for continuity. Incorporate biophilic design elements like vertical gardens, pergolas with climbing plants, or feature walls of greenery to merge the two environments effortlessly.
A well-designed outdoor kitchen can also enhance this effect, offering everything from barbecues to pizza ovens and wine fridges, making it easy to entertain guests without missing out on the outdoor ambiance. Ensure you have comfortable seating and dining options that match the interior style to keep the cohesive look.
Further, adding retractable awnings or outdoor umbrellas provides shade and comfort during hot summer days. This practical feature ensures that your outdoor spaces remain functional and comfortable throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions. String lights or lanterns can enhance the atmosphere, creating a warm, inviting glow for evening gatherings.
3. Creating a Luxurious Pool Area for Your Hamptons Resort-Style Home
A sparkling swimming pool is a must for a Hamptons resort-style home. Whether you choose an indoor or outdoor setup, the pool area should radiate luxury. For outdoor pools, surround them with natural stone or wood decking and ensure they are framed with greenery for that tropical, resort-like feel. Consider features like a heated plunge pool or a spa to elevate the sense of relaxation. Luxurious loungers, cabanas, or even a hammock can turn this space into a serene retreat.
For those who prefer an indoor pool, choose a design that includes floor-to-ceiling glass windows or retractable walls that open up to the outdoors. This ensures that even when you swim inside, you remain connected to nature. Heated floors and ambient lighting will give you a five-star hotel experience, while smart technology can maintain water temperature and even change lighting colours for different moods.
Add to the ambiance with landscape design that complements the style. Palm trees, hedges, and other tropical plants enhance the resort vibe, while stone pathways and soft lighting create an inviting environment at night. Water features, such as small fountains or waterfalls, can add a soothing background sound, reinforcing the feeling of being at a luxurious getaway.
Consider integrating a pool house or cabana area equipped with a mini kitchen and outdoor shower. This setup not only enhances the convenience and functionality of your pool area but also offers a dedicated space for relaxation, dining, or even entertaining guests without needing to go inside.
4. Elegant Verandas and Porches
One of the most defining features of a Hamptons-style home is its veranda. A spacious porch that wraps around the front or back of your home not only increases the living area but also becomes a focal point for entertaining guests. Use plush outdoor sofas and coffee tables to make it a space for afternoon tea or evening cocktails. The use of outdoor curtains or privacy screens can help create a more intimate space while maintaining the airy, open feel.
For a more luxurious touch, consider a veranda extension off the master bedroom to serve as a private retreat. Furnish it with comfortable outdoor lounge chairs, a small bistro table for morning coffee, and potted plants for a splash of greenery. This space can become your go-to spot for reading, relaxing, or unwinding after a long day.
To maximise comfort and functionality, choose outdoor furniture made from weather-resistant materials like wicker or treated wood. Cushions in soft, natural fabrics like linen or cotton maintain the Hamptons aesthetic while offering maximum comfort.
Additionally, use neutral shades for outdoor cushions and fabrics, but don’t shy away from incorporating pops of blue, green, or yellow to tie in with the surrounding natural landscape and coastal theme. Decorative elements like lanterns, candles, and floral arrangements in vases can add character and charm, making the veranda feel like an extension of your indoor space.
5. Luxurious Furnishings to Elevate Your Hamptons Resort-Style Home
The key to achieving that resort feel is comfort. Plush furnishings like deep armchairs, large sectional sofas, and soft throws create a welcoming and relaxed environment. Indoors, think upholstered chairs in neutral tones with light blue or sand-coloured accents to maintain the coastal theme. Ottomans and chaise lounges can also serve as perfect relaxation points.
Outdoor spaces should be equally comfortable, with cushioned sun loungers, swing chairs, and hammocks that invite long, lazy afternoons. Hanging rattan swings add a touch of whimsy, while cabanas or covered daybeds create private, shaded nooks for reading or napping.
Use natural fabrics such as linen, cotton, and jute throughout the home, as they not only look luxurious but also enhance the relaxed, beachy feel that is integral to Hamptons design. The inclusion of light blue and sandy hues throughout the house evokes the coastal charm of Hamptons resort properties.
Consider layering textures by mixing and matching different fabrics. For instance, pair a linen sofa with a wool throw or use jute rugs with velvet pillows to add depth and interest to your space. This interplay of textures not only enriches the visual appeal but also makes each space feel cozy and inviting.
6. A Walk-In Robe Fit for Royalty
In a Hamptons resort-style home, the closet is not just functional; it is a space designed for pampering. A walk-in wardrobe equipped with comfortable seating, soft rugs, and full-length mirrors helps to create an atmosphere of luxury. By designating this space for dressing and relaxation, you can declutter the bedroom and achieve a more peaceful, serene environment.
To elevate the luxury further, consider incorporating a vanity area with a plush stool, ambient lighting, and storage for beauty products. A walk-in closet with ample storage options and personalised touches like shoe display areas or jewellery drawers contributes to the sophisticated yet comfortable Hamptons feel.
You could also introduce decorative elements like a statement chandelier or vintage art pieces to create a refined, boutique-like atmosphere. Elegant finishes such as polished wood or gold accents on drawers and shelves add another layer of sophistication, making the closet a true sanctuary.
7. Accessorising for Hamptons Resort-Style Elegance
Accessories are crucial in tying the resort-style theme together. Think large mirrors that reflect natural light, nautical-themed decorations, or artwork depicting coastal scenes. Include vases of fresh flowers or dried palms, adding to the vibrant, resort-like atmosphere.
Lighting is another vital element—opt for chandeliers or pendant lights in common areas and softer table lamps in bedrooms and nooks to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Rattan or wicker pendant lights are great choices for adding texture and staying consistent with the beachy vibe.
For added visual interest, hang wall art or photographs that celebrate coastal living or abstract pieces that evoke a sense of tranquillity. These additions not only personalise the space but also serve as conversation starters when hosting guests.
