It seems the desire to be close to water is ingrained in our nature, and depending upon whom you ask, there could be an anthropological reason as to why. A new theory that takes an in-depth look at our physiology suggests that our human ancestors once thrived by the ocean, and as such many of us feel an innate need to return to it. To live by the sea is an aspiration for many. With its associated health benefits, tranquillity and natural aesthetic, it’s no wonder why the ocean continues to entice homeowners to its shores – it’s what they’re building there that’s the real marvel!

Here, Sydney Home Design + Living discovers why the Hamptons-style home is becoming the design of choice along the pristine New South Wales coastline.

SEEING CHANGE

It’s called a sea change for a reason. Escaping the hubbub of a busy city or the samey built environment of an inner suburb will often provide a change in perspective as much as a change of address. This has long been the draw for New Yorkers who choose to escape two hours east to the coastal pocket of Long Island known as the Hamptons.

Thought to be the origin of the modern summer home, the colloquial Hamptons area spans the idyllic neighbouring towns of East Hampton, Bridgehampton and South Hampton. The traditional, high-end homes that dot the shorelines of these picturesque hamlets are evidently designed with pleasure in mind. Used as a retreat from city life, these homes were often built for the purpose of entertainment and periodic beach-side living. Horizon Homes’ Denis Carroll believes it’s easy to see why more Aussies are trying to achieve this luxe look. “The Hamptons style has a relaxed elegance that works well with the Australian lifestyle,” he says. It reflects what is so intrinsic to Sydney and other world-famous cities across Australia – the beach!

THE TEST OF TIME 

When residing by the sea, it’s assumed you will be living the lifestyle that goes with it, which means that practicality should be a priority in the design of your new home. “A mudroom is an important and functional inclusion,” Carroll says. “It is an easily accessible storage area for items such as jackets, surf gear and shoes, and as many of our clients are families with active lifestyles, a mudroom is often essential.” Providing rear and side access to accommodate outdoor wash areas and showers is also a smart idea, as is incorporating storage solutions for beach equipment, such as surfboards.

“Designing a home that captures plenty of sunlight and cooling breezes will mean you can enjoy the freedom of living in a home that doesn’t require artificial cooling like air conditioning,” Carroll says. Solar passive design principles are helping to save the planet and your energy bills one house at a time and are great inclusion for those looking to beat the heat in an eco-conscious way.

As this style of home promotes an active social life, “an open-plan living area that spills onto an alfresco entertaining area will create an inviting space typical of Hamptons home design”, says Carroll. “The kitchen, too, can achieve a traditional feel with shaker doors and carrara marble countertops.” However, don’t let the word ‘traditional’ frighten you. The beauty of this trend is its ability to transcend time. Thanks to its neutral palette and high-end finishes, everything will feel as fresh and opulent as the day you moved in, without compromising on the relaxed feel that everyone desires in their family home.

“Seek a builder who understands the style intimately [in relation to the location] and the attention to detail this type of home deserves,” Carroll says. “When it comes to incorporating traditional elements with a high-end finish, integrating staple comfort and leisure items such as a fireplace, media unit or bookshelf in the initial stages of the design will ensure a seamless final product.”

SEEING CHANGE

It’s called a sea change for a reason. Escaping the hubbub of a busy city or the samey built environment of an inner suburb will often provide a change in perspective as much as a change of address. This has long been the draw for New Yorkers who choose to escape two hours east to the coastal pocket of Long Island known as the Hamptons.

Thought to be the origin of the modern summer home, the colloquial Hamptons area spans the idyllic neighbouring towns of East Hampton, Bridgehampton and South Hampton.

The traditional, high-end homes that dot the shorelines of these picturesque hamlets are evidently designed with pleasure in mind. Used as a retreat from city life, these homes were often built for the purpose of entertainment and periodic beach-side living. Horizon Homes’ Denis Carroll believes it’s easy to see why more Aussies are trying to achieve this luxe look. “The Hamptons style has a relaxed elegance that works well with the Australian lifestyle,” he says. It reflects what is so intrinsic to Sydney and other world-famous cities across Australia – the beach!

Providing the perfect blank canvas for those socially inclined, Hamptonsinspired properties befitting of our climate and lifestyle are becoming the specialty of companies like Horizon Homes. With classic architectural features, a spacious layout and neutral colour palette, the Hamptons trend offers a refined alternative for those looking to ditch the wicker and driftwood commonly associated with coastal design.