Hamptons on a budget: It is possible

There’s something so quintessentially charming about the Hamptons look. It’s classy, it’s timeless, it’s elegant and it perfectly marries the feeling of relaxation with a coastal escape.

The good news is that you don’t need to live by the beach to enjoy a Hamptons-style property. Nor do you need a huge budget. Bring the coast into your home with a renovation you’ll be proud to show off to friends and family – with plenty of space for opulent gatherings.

Here’s how you can do it all on a budget thanks to James Hardie products.

FOCUS ON THE CLASSIC FEATURES OF THE HAMPTONS LOOK

What sets the Hamptons look apart from everything else? Four elements in particular:

• A weatherboard façade

Depending on the size of your property, you can easily enjoy a Hamptons look on a budget. Consider the Linea™ Weatherboard to define your unique exterior, and if the budget allows then you can create a more striking look with by using Axent™ Trim for a pristine finish.

• Strong, clean lines

Whether traditional or modern, every Hamptons home is defined by strong, clean lines. The style is the perfect match for classic homes and coastal beach properties, with timeless street appeal always making a great first impression.

• A striking front door

A great way to add some Hamptons flair on a budget is by painting your front door. Consider a classic crisp-white tone or make your entrance a standout feature in contrasting black. When it comes to the paint finish, remember that high gloss is ideal on doors, so a dark, glossy front entrance that contrasts against your white weatherboard cladding will instantly elevate your façade to Hamptons chic.

• Panelling

Panelling your interior walls is an inexpensive option that can immediately transform your home’s appearance. Use Hardie™ Groove Lining from the entrance through the hallways and inside your rooms.

BRING THE COASTAL CHARM INDOORS

Which room should you start with when creating the Hamptons look? Any expert would tell you that nothing embodies the charm and spirit of the Hamptons more than a great kitchen.

You don’t need to overspend to get the Hamptons look in your kitchen. In fact, less is more. For the budget-conscious, start with a coat of paint – choose a colour that complements your exterior and boosts your entire home’s flow from the outside in. You also can’t go wrong with white shaker-style cabinets and a subway tile splashback. Consider classic cabinetry pieces, eye-catching but subdued lighting, and stylish tapware and door handles that will stand the test of time.

Next it’s time to think about furnishings, and once again you’ll want to focus on the central goal of any Hamptons look: to create a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor living spaces. Keep the purse strings tight by investing in budget-friendly furniture like linen lounges, cane chairs and jute rugs. These can be complemented by lush indoor greenery and cushions in seaside tones of blue and white.

Finally, make sure this indoor/outdoor ethos continues to flow through your entire home, even extending onto your entertaining deck and into your backyard.

CREATE YOUR OWN HAMPTONS HOME WITH JAMES HARDIE

The Hamptons style might be a classic, but there’s plenty of room for interpretation. James Hardie has a variety of weatherboard options to choose from, whether you want a classic style or a more modern Hamptons look. The same goes for your colour palette – white-on-white is a popular choice, but you can also define your Hamptons home with softer coastal hues of blues, greys and creams.

Not sure where to start? Try these top Hamptons tips:

• Go for the ‘classic’ weatherboard look: Make your Linea™ Weatherboards sing with Axent’s crisp, white trims.
• Freshen up the colours: Go for a traditional Hamptons look with white-on-white, or give it a modern Australian spin with a mix of whites, blues, greys and creams.
• Get cooking: Revamp your kitchen with shaker-style cabinetry and a white subway tile splashback.
• Bring the outside inside: Add greenery for a seamless indoor/outdoor feel – a few oversized pot plants and palms will add a splash of vibrant colour to a neutral palette.
• Soften up the space with furnishings: Think floor rugs, throws and cushions in neutral tones and natural materials to complement your home’s seaside colour palette.

You don’t need an eye-watering budget to bring the Hamptons look into your home. Focus on the most important elements of the exterior and interior, and then take advantage of James Hardie’s high-quality products to create the perfect holiday-at-home environment – ideal for entertaining just as much as relaxation.

Ready to get started on your Hamptons home on a budget? Find inspiration on our Pinterest page and uncover some fresh ideas to get those creative juices flowing.