5 Features of a Hamptons Style House

Hamptons style houses offer a lifestyle of affluent, relaxed, seaside comfort. But a Hamptons style house doesn’t mean it can’t be an affordable house too. At McDonald Jones Homes, we are experts at providing Hamptons style living without the hefty price tag. Here are our top five essential features of a Hamptons style home.

1 – Hamptons Style Lighting

A key element of Hamptons style interiors is the way they embrace natural light. Bright, sun‑drenched living spaces that flow through an open‑plan layout are essential for achieving the signature Hamptons look. To maximise light, use crisp white paint to reflect brightness throughout the home, paired with pale oak or oak‑look flooring to enhance the airy, beach‑inspired atmosphere. When selecting your Hamptons style lighting, choose glass light fittings that allow light to disperse evenly - avoid heavy lampshades that block or limit illumination. The goal is to create a seamless, continuous flow of light that defines the relaxed elegance of a true Hamptons home.

2 – Hamptons Style Furnishings

To truly bring a Hamptons home to life, the furnishings need to complement its relaxed yet luxurious coastal charm. Choose generous, comfortable sofas in white linen or soft neutral upholstery, paired with plenty of cushions to create an inviting, effortless look. Light-toned or glass coffee tables and side tables help maintain the airy feel, while a beautiful coffee-table book adds a touch of elegance and laid‑back sophistication.
When it comes to window coverings, avoid anything that blocks natural light. Opt for white Venetian blinds to retain privacy without sacrificing the bright, open atmosphere that defines Hamptons style. Light rugs can soften the space, but be careful not to hide too much of the timber flooring - its warmth is an essential part of the aesthetic.

3 – Hamptons Style Layout

The layout of your home plays a major role in creating an authentic Hamptons-style house. A Hamptons‑inspired floor plan should promote a sense of togetherness, comfort and easy coastal living. This often includes a gourmet kitchen overlooking the dining area, a spacious walk‑in or butler’s pantry, and a practical study nook positioned near the activity room. Calm, private guest bedrooms are also essential to provide a peaceful retreat.
A well‑designed Hamptons-style home brings all these elements together effortlessly. For those looking to elevate their living space even further, an alfresco area that flows naturally from the kitchen is ideal for relaxed summertime entertaining and adds to the seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle the Hamptons aesthetic is known for.

4 – Hamptons Style Garden

Much like the interior of the home, the characteristics of a Hamptons style garden are that they are well-manicured, clean, symmetrical, and uncluttered. Rich green plants and classic flower arrangements are the next step. But don’t overcrowd it. You don’t need a massive space to create a Hamptons style garden, but everything must be in relative proportion to the rest of the home.

 5 – Hamptons Style Staircase

The Hamptons style staircase is a classic feature of the home, and is a must for reaching the second story. Deep steps of timber or oak combined with white painted railing provides a gradual physical transition from one space to another – and emphasises the visual notions of relaxed movement.

Take a tour of one of our most popular Hamptons homes, the Saxonale 42, on display at Homeworld Warnervale.