Here’s Why Hamptons Style is Perfect for Casual Coastal Living
There are two things that I’m obsessed with when it comes to home design: coastal vibes and pure elegance. Combine the two and I’m in design heaven with the stunning Hamptons style!
Today I wanted to merge my two dream worlds and share some of the essential features of this look to inspire you to see the possibilities. It is easier than you think to get that sought after, breezy feel every single day.
The key piece
Okay, if there’s one piece that just screams Hamptons style, it’s the overstuffed white couch. This is the absolute star of the show.
I’m talking about a sofa that’s big, comfy, and makes you want to sink right in. The more massive and inviting it is, the better you’re nailing the look.
And it’s not just about the sofa. To really complete that relaxing vibe in every room, you’ll want to bring in some other essential pieces like ottomans, sideboards, and coffee tables.
They are absolute must-haves for creating that perfect chill-out space.
Decor idea to try: Here’s a great tip I love: throw a white slipcover on a chaise. It gives it an instant refresh and makes keeping it perfectly clean so much easier. A total win-win!
Blinded by the white
Let’s talk white. And I mean everything white. We’re talking cupboards, floors, walls, ceilings, linen, and furniture—the works.
This is where the style really comes to life. And the crispier and cleaner that white is, the more on-point your room will feel.
There’s a reason for all this white! It brings in this amazing feeling of peace and freedom, plus it’s a fantastic trick for making rooms feel way bigger than they are by adding space and highlighting everything beautifully.
This style really leans into that illusion, and it pays off big time.
You can’t forget the details! Think about white finishings for things like doorknobs and tapware. For the paint itself, going with a low sheen finish is the perfect touch.
You can look for shades like vivid white, wicker white, or designer white to get it just right.
Of course, if you have a thing for color, you can add your own touches. But with such a classic look, you might just find yourself wanting to stick to the plan.
Decor idea to try: Here’s a little secret for you: glass-fronted cabinets are an absolute showstopper with an all-white color palette.
Wicked wicker
You absolutely cannot do Hamptons style without some wicker. I’m serious, it’s a must-have! I love getting a whole bunch of rattan baskets in different shapes and sizes.
You can put some on the floor, a tiny one on a bench for your keys, and a big one is perfect for stashing away unused throw blankets and pillows. The softness of watercolor paintings just so happens to complement this furniture perfectly.
This watercolor print is the perfect fresh touch. Say hello to ‘Past The Beach’.
And wicker isn’t just for baskets. It’s the perfect material for accent chairs, low coffee tables, and even cool pendant lights.
For another layer of texture, you can bring in a floor rug made of natural fibers like jute or sisal in sandy, stony colors. It adds a wonderfully rustic edge.
If you’re all-in on that crisp “white on white” aesthetic, painted wicker is your best friend. It ties the whole look together perfectly.
Decor idea to try: Want to try something a little different? A rattan bar cart is such a fun and stylish idea!
Blue is your beau
Okay, so we’ve got our crisp white foundation. Now it’s time to bring in the color that makes it all pop: blue. A beautiful cobalt or nautical blue is the essential accent color here.
‘Orchid Blue’ is a perfect way to bring in that splash of blue.
I love playing with this color. You can bring it in with bold striped pillows, some oversized vases, or even cool hurricane lamps.
A few coastal touches like shells, starfish, or coral work great, too. And you’ve got to hang some beachy art to really complete the look.
I love the celebrity feel you get with ‘Miami Beach Palms’.
Another one of my favorite ways to add that signature blue is with blue and white Chinoiserie pieces. Things like ginger jars, teapots or pretty plates are an easy and elegant way to get the job done.
Decor idea to try: Here’s a simple decorating tip: a fresh bouquet of blue hydrangeas, dahlias or agapanthus adds the absolute perfect finishing touch.
‘Saltwater Cures Everything’ will soothe your soul.
Go to the bathroom
Don’t think for a second that this amazing style is only for your living room! You can absolutely carry it right into the bathroom.
Honestly, it’s one of the best looks for creating a cohesive feel through your whole house, even in the laundry room.
It’s all about the details to keep that coastal theme going. I’d go for things like shaker-style doors, timber Venetian blinds, and some traditional wall sconces.
Classic mirrors and some country homestead-style faucets in white or black will also look fantastic.
My advice is to avoid anything that looks super contemporary. And if you’re lucky enough to have a view of the water, make sure your windows are designed to show it off!
Remember to choose a designer white for this often overlooked room and elevate it with reflective surfaces like marble countertops or tiles.
Decor idea to try: Here’s an idea you might not have thought of: hang some calming coastal art. Yes, in the bathroom! It really helps complete the vibe.
‘Life On The Beach’ creates a whole new way of living.
You wood love this
To really nail the natural side of Hamptons style, you’ve got to bring in some wood tones. I’m talking about those gorgeous colors you’d find in driftwood.
You’ll see this pop up in things like timber floorboards, sideboards, or cupboards.
A lot of Hamptons-style homes will even show off exposed ceiling beams, which is a stunning way to celebrate these natural hues.
And honestly, the look just isn’t complete without a piece of artfully placed driftwood. It’s that perfect little connection to the fresh, coastal outdoors.
Bring a subtle, breezy element to any room with ‘Following The Birds’.
Decor idea to try: If you’re not a huge fan of driftwood, no problem! You can get a similar seaside influence by using thick rope for design accents, like tying back curtains or hanging shelves.
Or you could go a step further and bring in some macramé art!
