What Sets Coastal Apart from Hamptons Style?

Coastal style and Hamptons style are two popular design aesthetics that are often associated with beach living. While both styles are influenced by the beach, there are subtle distinctions between them that can appeal to different tastes.

Hamptons style combines a sense of luxury and elegance with understated references to the seaside theme. This style is often associated with the wealthy enclave of the Hamptons on Long Island, New York.

Hamptons-style homes often feature high-end finishes, such as marble countertops and hardwood floors, along with decorative elements like wainscoting and crown molding. Color palettes are generally neutral, with shades of white and gray predominating. Meanwhile, subtle nods to the beach might include seashell motifs or nautical-inspired accents such as rope or sailcloth.

On the other hand, coastal style is more relaxed and bohemian. This style emphasizes natural materials and outdoor elements, such as driftwood, seagrass, and rattan.

Color palettes for coastal style tend to be brighter and more vibrant than those of Hamptons style, with shades of blue, green, and coral predominating. Decorative elements might include seashells, fishing nets, or other objects collected from the shoreline.

Overall, coastal style emphasizes a connection to the natural environment, while Hamptons style aims for a more polished and sophisticated look. Both styles can be beautiful and inviting, depending on your personal taste and the overall aesthetic of your home.

Whether you prefer the understated elegance of Hamptons style or the laid-back vibe of coastal style, there are plenty of ways to incorporate these beach-inspired aesthetics into your home. By choosing the right furniture, color palette, and decorative accents, you can create a space that feels like a peaceful retreat right on the shore.

Overview of Coastal and Hamptons Style

Coastal and Hamptons styles have become increasingly popular over the years, particularly for those decorating beachside homes. While both styles are influenced by the beach, they have subtle distinctions that appeal to distinct preferences. The Hamptons style combines elegant and luxurious with subtle references to the seaside theme, while the coastal style is more relaxed and bohemian, and brings elements of the outdoors inside. When it comes to coastal style, it emphasizes a more relaxed and casual vibe that feels cozy and inviting. This means opting for materials that are easy-going, such as rattan, wicker, linen, and cotton. On the other hand, the Hamptons style is known for its elegant and luxurious elements, with an emphasis on natural materials such as stone, wood, and marble.

Distinctions between Hamptons and Coastal Style

Coastal and Hamptons styles may seem similar, but they differ in several ways. The major distinction between the two is that the Hamptons style is more tailored, with a focus on symmetry and balance, while the coastal style is more eclectic, with a focus on relaxed and comfortable living. Another distinction is that the Hamptons style typically features a monochromatic color palette, with a prevalence of white and neutral colors, while coastal style embraces bright and vibrant hues. The Hamptons also feature more statement lighting fixtures and ornate furniture pieces, while the coastal style is characterized by simpler and more effortless designs.

Characteristics of Hamptons Style

When it comes to the Hamptons style, think elegant and sophisticated. This style is all about creating a sense of understated luxury, with a focus on natural materials and a neutral color palette. Key characteristics of Hamptons style include:

• Neutral Color Palette: Shades of white, beige, gray, and blue are dominant and create a calming and serene ambiance.
• Natural Materials: The use of natural materials such as timber, stone, linen, and jute creates a rustic yet refined look.
• Ornate Detailing: Mouldings, intricate patterns, and detailing are typical design elements in Hamptons style decorating.
• Layered Textures: Soft fur throws and textured rugs add a touch of luxury and depth to the overall look.
• Bold Wall Art: Large-scale art pieces add an element of drama and sophistication, a focal point in any room.

Characteristics of Coastal Style

Coastal style, on the other hand, is all about embracing the natural beauty of the beach. This style is more relaxed and comfortable, with an emphasis on light and airy interiors. Key characteristics of coastal style include:

• Bright Colors: Think bright blues, greens, and yellows. Coastal style is all about creating a playful and vibrant environment.
• Natural Materials: From rattan to wicker, wood to linen, coastal style emphasizes natural materials that are comfortable and relaxed.
• Eclectic Accessories: Coastal style can be mixed and matched, with an emphasis on featuring unique accessories such as driftwood, shells, and vintage knick-knacks.
• Pops of Stripes: Stripes are a staple of coastal design, whether on textiles or wall art, stripes add a playful element to the design.
• Natural Light: Coastal style emphasizes natural light, with diaphanous fabrics that allow sunshine to flood interiors.

How to Incorporate Hamptons Style into Your Home

Incorporating Hamptons style in your home is all about creating a sense of luxury and refinement. Here are some key tips to get you started:

• Color Scheme: Choose a neutral color palette, with shades of white, beige, and gray as the dominant hues.
• Natural Materials: Opt for natural materials such as timber, stone, linen, and jute in your furnishings and decor.
• Statement Pieces: Curate statement pieces such as a grand chandelier, oversized artwork, and ornate mirrors.
• Layered Textures: Add depth to your decor with fur throws, plush cushions and textured rugs.
• Window Dressings: Choose lightweight fabrics such as linen drapes or cotton sheers to create a sense of flow and softness.

How to Achieve Coastal Style in Your Home

If you wish to incorporate coastal style in your home, here are some tips to bring the beachside ambiance inside:

• Bright Colors: Choose bright and cheerful colors such as aqua blue, sea green, and sunshine yellow, to create a vibrant coastal atmosphere.
• Natural Materials: Use materials such as wicker, rattan, and wood for furniture, and incorporate natural fibers such as linen or cotton for upholstery.
• Accessories: Decorate with ocean-themed accessories such as seashells, driftwood, and marine life decor.
• Stripes: Incorporate stripes into your decor, from bedding to textiles and even wallpaper to add a playful and sophisticated element to your design.
• Natural Light: Allow natural light to flow through your interiors through diaphanous curtains or sheer fabrics for an open and breezy feel.

In conclusion, while both Hamptons and coastal styles share elements of beachside living, they differ in their approach to design, materials, and color schemes. No matter which style you choose, ensure that it reflects your personality, lifestyle, and preferences. Whether you opt for the elegant sophistication of the Hamptons or the relaxed atmosphere of coastal living, both styles create a warm and inviting feeling that will make you feel right at home.