If you’re embarking on a new home journey, it’s likely you might be leaning toward the timeless Hamptons style.

It’s not hard to see why — the beautiful weatherboard walls, gabled roofs, lofty ceilings and sophisticated luxury interiors are hallmarks of this timeless 

But inside your home, you’ll want to think hard about which variation of the Hamptons you want most.

From the laidback beachy bohemian vibe to bold modern, here are some common Hamptons interior styles to check out.

Classic

Directly inspired by the rich and famous houses on Long Island in New York State — where the design first originated — classic Hamptons style is all about simplistic grandeur.

“In classic Hamptons style, you see white mixed with grey and blue, and there’s always a lot of ornate detail on the cabinetry, the doors and wall panels,” explains Melissa Donnan, interior designer at Porter Davis.

The elegant and grand Hamptons designs have become increasingly popular in Australia.

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Typically, rooms feel elegant and relaxed, often with nods to French provincial style.

This style appeals across demographics, but particularly resonates with older buyers, adds Chiara Portesi, interior designer at Porter Davis.

“We’ve got a version called Hamptons Vineyard,” explains Chiara. “It’s still classic, but it’s got more of an upmarket farmhouse feel with more neutral colours like soft greens rather than blues, which people really like.”

People also have the option of varying the nautical theme, she adds.

Resort

If you live in a warm coastal area, you’re likely attracted to the bohemian coastal look — the perfect setting for laying about when the long hot summer days hit.

Think of an open layout that flows freely, white walls, timber floors, woven rugs, and naturally textured furniture.

“It is a bit more relaxed compared to the classic,” Chiara says.

“There’s more of a focus on direct light and it just feels a little bit fresher.”

Sit back and relax.

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If the light and breezy coastal look is too plain for you, a bolder tropical theme is a “really fun” alternative, says Melissa.

“With this style, everything is still bright and crisp, but you’ve got a lot more greenery.”

Darker greens and emeralds mixed with natural materials can create strong character for a space. You can also do away with formality and introduce cane furniture, fun wall prints and traveller trinkets.

Designer

At the opposite end of the spectrum is the designer style.

This style moves away from the classic Hamptons white canvas and instead uses colour and embellishments for striking impact.

The Hamptons doesn’t have to be old school elegant — you can also add a designer twist.

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“This theme is a bit more moody,” says Melissa. “Lots of accents using darker or bright colours. You also have elements of quite decorative detail such as black tapware and matte finishes.”

Traditional Hamptons elements still feature, such as wall panelling, but you’re able to be much more creative.

Contemporary

The contemporary Hamptons home is all about clean lines and simple grey tones.

“It’s a style that’s very in trend,” explains Chiara. “It’s more minimalist, very pared back on colour, so it’s less complicated and you can breathe more.”

You can keep it simple and relaxed.

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Cabinetry should have smooth and sleek finishes for a clean look, she explains.

This makes the introduction of focal points like contemporary light fittings, patterned tiles, or different textures much easier.

How to choose the right style for you

When it comes to choosing the style of your Hamptons forever home, it’s essential to pick a design that matches your style but also your location.

“Depending on where your home is, we might introduce elements of other design styles that will be suitable to match the environment,” Melissa explains.

“Maybe it’s located closer to a beach, so you’ll be looking for a more coastal theme, or in a city, you might want more modern.”

She reiterates that it’s best to talk to a designer if you’re struggling with the choice.

“Everyone has different tastes, which is why we’ve developed our umbrella style themes — Classic, Resort, Designer and Contemporary — so people can work from there to include their specific ideas, which makes it easy.”

Pictures are courtesy of Porter Davis.