5 KEY FEATURES OF HAMPTONS STYLE KITCHENS
Let’s be honest - who doesn’t dream of a Hamptons inspired kitchen? It’s the ultimate blend of coastal cool with a sophisticated edge, transforming the heart of any home into something truly special. Inspired by the luxurious beach houses of New York’s Hamptons, this style seamlessly combines French provincial elegance with that laid-back, toes-in-the-sand vibe we all adore.
But even if an all-out Hamptons style kitchen isn’t on your radar, there’s plenty of inspiration to borrow from this timeless style. From coastal to country kitchens, the Hamptons look offers a perfect mix of elegance and practicality. Think light, airy palettes, natural textures, and classic detailing that work beautifully in any setting. You can incorporate elements like shaker-style cabinetry, marble or stone benchtops, and pendant lighting to create a relaxed yet refined space. For added charm, sprinkle in open shelving, textured tiles, or rattan accents to tailor the look to your own lifestyle.
Ready to create your own slice of Hamptons heaven? Keep reading for the 5 must-have Hamptons style elements that will turn your kitchen dreams into reality!
WHAT IS A HAMPTONS STYLE KITCHEN
A Hamptons style kitchen is iconic for a reason! It’s the ultimate blend of coastal aesthetics and refined, traditional touches. With its signature calm colour palette, natural materials, and breezy, coastal cool vibe we love, this style works perfectly in both traditional and contemporary homes.
Picture high ceilings, classic shaker cabinetry, spacious islands, and that unmistakable coastal feel that makes you feel like you’ve brought the beach right into your home.
If you love the thought of a stunning, light-filled kitchen that’s as practical as it is beautiful - perfect for cooking, entertaining, and making memories with the fam - be sure to add this style to your search for inspo images.
5 Key Elements of A Hamptons Style Kitchen
1. CLASSIC SHAKER CABINETRY
Let’s talk about the backbone of Hamptons style kitchens - the cabinetry! Shaker-style cabinets are an absolute must. Shaker cabinetry is named after the Shaker movement, famous for their “less is more” vibe. These beauties are all about clean, straight lines with a simple frame and a recessed centre panel. It’s classic, and timeless, and sets the tone for that dreamy Hamptons vibe we all love.
When you're choosing hardware, subtle knobs or cup handles are a great place to start. They’re the perfect little nod to tradition that adds a touch of charm to your cabinetry. Whether you go for brushed brass, polished chrome, or something matte and understated, these details make all the difference in nailing that Hamptons vibe.
Amanda Henderson
Feeling fancy? Add open shelving or glass-front doors for a little extra character and a chance to show off your prettiest pottery pieces.
2. COASTAL COLOUR PALETTE
A traditional Hamptons style kitchen is all about calm, breezy vibes. We’re talking whites, soft greys, and sandy tones that mimic the beach’s natural beauty - it’s like bringing the coast indoors without the messy sand.
Amanda Henderson
Want to make it uniquely yours? Add a splash of personality with coastal blues or muted greens. It’s like a gentle wave of colour washing through your kitchen, creating a serene yet fresh feel.
A TWIST ON THE TRADITIONAL
If you love the Hamptons style but want to break free from the classic whites and neutrals, don't be afraid to shake up your shaker cabinetry with a touch of colour.
Add your personal touch with bold accent colours or unexpected details. Perhaps you prefer a deep navy island bench, terracotta floor tiles with a coastal twist, or even blush pink decor. The Hamptons vibe is all about relaxed luxury, so don’t be afraid to make it personal - it’s your dream kitchen, after all!
3. NATURAL MATERIALS THAT BRING THE MAGIC
Let’s face it: the right materials can make or break your Hamptons style kitchen. This look is all about embracing nature’s finest and creating a space that’s warm, inviting, and effortlessly chic. Timber, rattan and natural stone will likely play a part.
SPLASHBACKS AND BENCHTOPS
Splashbacks and benchtops are where the Hamptons magic truly happens! Nothing shouts "Hamptons style kitchen" like a Carrara marble benchtop (or its engineered stone equivalent) and if your budget allows, extend it right up the wall for a seamless, luxurious splashback that screams sophistication.
If you're tiling your splashback, subway tiles are the ultimate classic - they never go out of style. Whether you’re laying them in a traditional brick pattern or giving them a twist with a herringbone layout, they bring just the right amount of texture and interest to your kitchen.
THE PERFECT FLOORING
Timber floors (hardwood, engineered or hybrid - what ever suits your budget) add warmth, character, and that perfect dose of casual-yet-sophisticated breezy Hamptons style. Light oak or whitewashed finishes are a no-brainer if you’re chasing that laid-back beach vibe, but darker timber tones can work beautifully too if you want to add a touch of drama.
4. LIGHTING THAT STEALS THE SHOW
In a Hamptons kitchen, lighting isn’t just functional - it’s a feature in itself. Oversized pendant lights, often in glass or rattan, hang gracefully above the island. These beauties don’t just illuminate; they bring all the elegance and create a stunning focal point.
Lighting is where you can really let your personality shine (literally!). Whether you choose bold, industrial-style pendants or something softer and more coastal, your fixtures are a chance to make a statement. Don’t forget to layer your lighting with dimmers - because sometimes you need bright and functional, and other times you just want to set the mood for a glass of wine on your island bench.
Want to amp up the luxe? Add a touch of sparkle with metal accents like polished chrome or aged brass. These finishes are the perfect partners to your coastal vibe, giving your space just the right dose of glam without going over the top.
5. LIGHT AND AIRY DESIGN
Natural light doesn’t just make your kitchen look good - it makes it feel good too. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee at the bench or prepping dinner for friends, there’s nothing like a little sunshine to set the mood.
Big, gorgeous windows, high ceilings, and open-plan layouts are the secret sauce for that bright, breezy vibe we all swoon over. It’s what makes a Hamptons kitchen feel like a sunny beach house - even in the middle of winter!
But don’t worry if you’re working with a smaller space. You can still cheat your way to that light-filled magic. Opt for white cabinetry (the classic Hamptons choice) and reflective stone benchtops that bounce light around the room like a dream. Add in some soft finishes and voila - you’ve got yourself a bright, airy space perfect for cooking, entertaining, and everyday enjoyment.
STYLING HAMPTONS KITCHENS
The Hamptons style is all about classic elegance meeting laid-back coastal vibes. It’s light, it’s breezy, and chic. But the real magic? It’s in the styling. Those finishing touches take your kitchen from gorgeous to the next level!
MUST-HAVE STYLING ITEMS FOR A HAMPTONS KITCHEN
Glass jars: Perfect for pantry staples or just looking pretty on your benchtop.
Fresh greenery or faux flowers: A vase on your island bench is a no-fail way to add a natural, eye-catching focal point.
Rattan bar stools or woven cane stools: For that casual, beachy texture.
Linen fabrics: Layer linen cushions on nearby seating to add warmth and softness.
Woven baskets: Rattan, wicker or other natural materials Great for storage or styling, and they scream coastal charm.
Statement art or a unique vase: The perfect way to make the space feel personal and polished.
Layered rugs: Flooring throughout a Hamptons style home comes to life with a textured rug that adds cosiness.
IS A HAMPTONS KITCHEN RIGHT FOR YOU?
You don’t need a Long Island address to embrace the Hamptons style! The beauty of Hampton style kitchens is their timeless coastal charm and relaxed sophistication, which can work in homes big and small. The key to creating a Hamptons-inspired kitchen is blending classic coastal elements with thoughtful design details.
And here’s the best part: even if you’re not going for a full Hamptons kitchen, this style can still inspire your vision board! Borrow elements you love - like a white or neutral palette, shaker cabinets, marble benchtops, panelled cabinetry, timber flooring or gorgeous pendant lights - and adapt them to suit your home and personal style.
READY TO CREATE YOUR DREAM HAMPTONS STYLE KITCHEN?
Ready to turn your kitchen into the Hamptons-inspired haven you’ve always dreamed of? Join our Three Birds Kitchen Bootcamp and start designing your own dream kitchen in as little as 48 hours.
From choosing the perfect colour palette to styling tips and must-have features, we’ll guide you every step of the way to create a kitchen you love. Don’t wait to start your dream kitchen - sign up for Three Birds Kitchen Bootcamp today and make it happen!
