The Hamptons offers a rich tapestry of styles that reflect its unique history and luxurious lifestyle
When you think of “Hamptons architectural style,” what comes to mind? Do you picture grand, shingled mansions built by wealthy New Yorkers as summer retreats in the late 19th and early 20th centuries? Or, do you favor a cozy beach-inspired cottage? Maybe you envision a sprawling farmhouse overlooking fields and dunes? Perhaps an ultra-modern design incorporating glass, industrial elements and blending into nature? No matter your architectural daydream, architects in the Hamptons can deliver.
Hamptons architecture reflects its diverse history, dating back to the mid-1600s with the founding of Southampton by English settlers. Some of the most popular architectural styles in the Hamptons include:
Traditional Shingle Style: Introduced in the late 1800’s by architects seeking to break free from highly ornamental Victorian designs, “shingle style” employs shingles in several elements of its façade. Shingle style borrows elements from traditional colonial houses built by the first settlers. The traditional shingle style house is large – looming, even – featuring an asymmetrical façade with a spacious and wide porch. Large groupings of windows are placed throughout the house to let in ample summer sunshine. The ceilings are often vaulted, which allows the homes to have heightened living rooms and halls.
Colonial Revival Style: Emerged post-World War II and draws from English and Dutch architectural elements. Colonial revival homes feature symmetrical façades, classic columns, and traditional details like dentil molding and pediments. Typically two-storied with low-pitched roofs, these homes have tall double-hung windows and accentuated doorways flanked by sidelights.
Modern Beach House Style: Incorporates clean lines, open floor plans, and large expansive areas of glass that take advantage of the natural light and beautiful views. These homes incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient design elements.
Farmhouse Style: Features rustic elements such as exposed beams, barn doors, and wide plank flooring. The farmhouse style is about the rustic, country-style home look inspired by elements usually found on a traditional farm. The Hamptons farmhouse is distinguished by rectangular mass, board and batten sliding details on the exterior with a contrasting gabled roof. The interior is spacious, and can feature a large fireplace, wooden beams, and shiplap walls.
No matter your architectural preference, the Hamptons offers a rich tapestry of styles that reflect its unique history and luxurious lifestyle.
Now that you’ve got an idea about the kind of house you would like it’s time to choose an architect. Some of the Hamptons’ better-known names include:
Stelle Lomont Rouhani Architects: Known for their contemporary and sustainable designs that embrace the natural beauty of the Hamptons landscape. They specialize in high-end residential projects that prioritize energy-efficient design and modern aesthetics that blend modern design with traditional elements to create unique and timeless spaces. Their work features clean lines, open floor plans, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living areas, taking advantage of the natural beauty of the Hamptons landscape. Their designs incorporate energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and passive design strategies to create homes that are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly.
Bates Masi + Architects: Recognized for their innovative, site-specific designs that incorporate sustainable materials and construction techniques. Their work is characterized by a strong emphasis on craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability. Their designs often incorporate innovative materials and construction techniques, creating homes that are both visually striking and environmentally conscious.
Barnes Coy Architects: Known for their modern and minimalist designs featuring clean lines that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living spaces, Barnes Coy Architects has established a strong reputation for their high-end residential projects in the Hamptons. The firm’s work employes natural materials and textures that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living spaces, taking advantage of the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
James Michael Howard: A highly respected architect and interior designer, James Michael Howard is known for his timeless and elegant designs that reflect classic sophistication and luxury. He is known for creating beautiful and elegant spaces that are both functional and luxurious, tailored to the individual needs and tastes of his clients. His portfolio includes a wide range of projects, from custom-built homes and renovations to interior design and furnishings. His work often features traditional and transitional elements, blending modern sophistication with classic elegance to create spaces that are both inviting and refined. Howard’s design philosophy is centered around creating harmonious and cohesive environments that reflect the lifestyle and personality of his clients. He is committed to creating spaces that are not only visually stunning but also functional, comfortable, and tailored to the needs of the people who will be living in them.
Blaze Makoid Architecture: Known for their innovative and unique designs that push the boundaries of traditional architecture. They are recognized for their modern and sophisticated approach to residential design, creating custom homes that are tailored to the individual needs and lifestyles of their clients. Their work often features clean lines, open spaces, and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. Their projects often feature sustainable design elements and energy-efficient systems, reflecting a commitment to environmentally conscious design practices.