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Characteristics of a Hamptons Home

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Located on the East End of Long Island, the Hamptons is a region defined by its storied past, natural beauty, and unique architectural styles. Long a summer haven for artists and affluent New Yorkers, the area’s villages and hamlets each carry their own charm and embody a timeless coastal elegance. Pembrooke & Ives brings this vision to life through three architecturally distinct homes, Watermill Cottage, the Southampton Estate, and Crab Creek, each blending tradition and sophistication to create a relaxed, yet refined, lifestyle by the sea.

Architectural Features

Hamptons architecture reflects a rich tapestry of styles shaped by the region’s history and coastal setting. Dutch Colonial and Shingle Style homes lean into asymmetry and horizontal expansion. Characterized by gambrel roofs and expansive layouts, these homes often include traditional staircases with spindle balustrades and lofty interiors with unique ceiling angles. In contrast, classic Greek Revival homes feature symmetrical facades, white-painted exteriors, double-hung windows, and prominent columns, often paired with pitched ceilings on the upper floors.

Modernist influences are also prominent throughout the region, especially in newer builds. These homes embrace materials like glass, concrete, wood, stone, and metal, with distinctive architectural gestures like floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the surrounding landscape into focus. Across all styles, horizontal architecture is key. Whether historic or contemporary, most Hamptons homes favor sprawling, one-to-two-story footprints that blend seamlessly into the terrain.

Materiality

Natural materials are the foundation of any Hamptons interior. Wide-plank wood floors, exposed beams, woven rugs, and hand-crafted millwork evoke a sense of craftsmanship and authenticity. Shiplap walls and ceilings nod to the region’s nautical roots, while soft, luxurious textiles like linen, cashmere, and cotton, create a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Every element is chosen with both comfort and longevity in mind, striking a balance between laid-back coastal living and understated luxury.

Color Palette

The color palettes found in Hamptons homes draw inspiration from the surrounding coastal landscape. Neutrals like soft white, warm taupe, and sandy beige form the foundation, accented by subtle shades of blue, seafoam green, and weathered gray. The result is a palette that feels serene, sun-washed, and timeless, befitting for homes designed as retreats from the city.

CommunAL Spaces

Spending a summer in the Hamptons is a social experience, so having spaces intended for entertaining, leisure, and gathering with family and friends is a big aspect of designing a home here. From outdoor amenities like pools, open-air kitchens, and expansive dining areas to indoor spaces such as bars, lounges, and game rooms, Hamptons interiors prioritize shared spaces that foster lasting memories and meaningful connections.


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