Get the Perfect Hamptons Style Kitchen - A Complete Guide
Hampton styled kitchens have become very popular in recent times, and we’re going to take a look at how to achieve an authentic one. You don’t need to live on Long Island, but you will have to make sure (like any heavily stylised room) that it fits into the overall look of your home. It isn’t particularly more expensive to achieve, but it can look out of place if the rest of your home is very modern and minimum, but it can look great in Queenslanders and more traditional or older homes especially when done professionally.
Hampton Style - What Is It?
On the east end of Long Island in the USA, a group of hamlets and villages are known as ‘The Hamptons”. They are notoriously connected with the wealthy but to achieve this very notable style you don’t have to be. They reflect life by the ocean which is perfect for Sub-Tropical Queensland. It transmits understated laid back elegance so how do you achieve it? Read on…
Light Colours
You can’t really go wrong with white, or off white, but any light colour will work as it’s one of the main factors. Light colours reflects light very well whatever the finish of your cabinets. Mixing and matching also work well if done subtly, but you must retain a light colour palette so duck egg blues or stoney greys will work well with your main white colour as they will all give you the ocean vibe.
Natural Materials
Although you can use laminated cabinets, a natural soft matt finish will work best to be truly authentic. Traditionally they would be wood (dating from 1870’s America where the Hampton style took inspiration) but any soft finish will work and won’t overdo the reflections. Wooden timber flooring is another classic ingredient, but don’t go too dark though where the natural tones of the wood can’t be seen. For furniture think of leather, cotton or linen.
Shaker Style Cabinets
This is another must, to achieve true Hamptons style. Shaker cabinets are simple in their styling having a centre panel that’s slightly recessed. As mentioned earlier, it’s ok to have a laminated finish but not too reflective. This simple dovetailed style and flush edges are key to Hamptons styling. If you want to be modern you can use non-traditional handles without ruining the feel.
Marble Countertops
White polished marble will give you the most luxurious yet simple finishing feel with Carrara or Calacatta marble from Italy being preferred but anything white and marble will be ok to compliment the cabinets.
Pendant Lighting
Lastly, oversized pendant lighting will work well due to the traditional high ceilings often over the countertops or islands.
Tiling and Splashbacks
Tiling is kept to a minimum and almost exclusively understated in white with brick tiles working best. Walls are left natural with painted plaster using kitchen compatible paint.