Expert Opinion: Natalee Bowen’s Five Hamptons Must-Haves

Hamptons designer, Natalee Bowen of Indah Island, reveals her five rules to live by for getting the Hamptons look.

1. WEATHERBOARDS

I would suggest that the defining element for an Australian-Hamptons look is weatherboard cladding—it’s all about creating long, clean lines and deep shadows. Linea™ weatherboard is a low-maintenance and hard-wearing weatherboard alternative to timber, with deep shadow lines, perfect for the Hamptons look.

2. WOOD FLOORING

Think wooden floors. I love wide oak floorboards in either an American mocha shade or stained dark oak to underpin the floorplan, which should be open to create a breezy flow.

TIP: Choose wide oak floorboards in either an American mocha shade or stained dark oak to underpin the floorplan.

3. THE PERFECT PALETTE

Traditionally, a Hamptons colour scheme is comprised mostly of variations of white and neutral tones with accents of grey and blue used as complementary shades.

It’s easy to go astray with floral prints which make the look too flowery and give the interior an English or French Provincial look. Sometimes people also confuse the look with shabby chic, which is also very different. Steer clear of these mistakes by sticking to a pared-back colour palette and adding natural textures like jute to break up the space.

Traditionally, a Hamptons colour scheme is comprised mostly of variations of white and neutral tones with accents of grey and blue used as complementary shades.

4. FABRICS

Invest in beautiful fabrics to add an accent to the muted, textured backdrop of the Hamptons look. Cushions are an easy way to add interest. Additionally, occasional chairs and ottomans work well. I like to mix a small amount of florals with stripes or geometric shapes to avoid being too matchy-matchy. This multilayered approach adds character and personality to the home.

Natalee suggests mixing a small amount of florals with stripes or geometric shapes to avoid being too matchy-matchy.

5. LIGHTING

This is key. Use a mixture of overhead pendant lighting and elegant lamps as lighting can really change the ambiance of a room. Its all about bringing features to life. For the exterior, structure lights to illuminate the grooves and lines of the weatherboard.