There’s something utterly captivating about the sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance of a Hamptons-style garden. Known for its coastal charm and elegant simplicity, the Hamptons garden style has gained immense popularity among homeowners and garden designers alike.
Whether you’re looking to imbue a sense of serenity in your outdoor space or want to bring the tranquil seaside vibes to your backyard, a modern Hamptons-style garden can offer you just that.
In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide on how to create a Hamptons-style garden.
Image via Lavender Hill Interiors
What is a Hamptons-Style Garden?
Inspired by the luxurious holiday homes in the Hamptons – a series of seaside communities on Long Island, New York – a Hamptons-style garden is usually characterised by rich greenery; a mix of formal and informal plantings; and a neutral colour palette, with accents of white, blue, purple, or grey.
Fencing and furniture are typically in either natural (or weathered) timber tones, or white.
Exuding a combination of sophistication, comfort, and rustic flair, the Hamptons style garden design is quintessentially American, but has a timeless appeal that transcends geographical boundaries.
The design has gained huge popularity in Australia in recent years.
How to Create a Hamptons Style Garden
- Start with a Neutral Palette
The hallmark of a Hamptons-style yard is its neutral colour scheme. Opt for light shades such white, beige, or grey for your outdoor furniture, cushions, and garden accessories. These colours not only bring a sense of calm, but also serve as a versatile backdrop for seasonal plants and flowers.
- Use Natural Timber or Wood-Look Outdoor Furniture
In keeping with the elegant vibe, it’s essential to invest in high-quality, durable outdoor furniture. Choose materials such as teak, wrought iron, or aluminium that can withstand the elements. Consider incorporating wicker or rattan furniture for a touch of rustic charm.
- Layer with Textiles
To add cosiness and comfort, layer your outdoor furniture with a variety of textiles like cushions, throws, and outdoor rugs. Stick to your neutral colour scheme but experiment with textures and patterns for added interest.
- Install Hamptons Style Fencing
A fence can dramatically affect the overall look and feel of your garden. For a Hamptons garden, consider installing a white picket fence or a classic wooden fence painted in a neutral, or blue-grey hue. This will only enhance your garden’s aesthetic appeal, but will also provide an element of privacy and security.
A Fencemakers Hamptons style fence
- Add Rich Greenery
One of the most notable elements of a Hamptons-style garden is lush greenery. Introduce a combination of both evergreen deciduous trees in varying shades of green. However, it’s important to ensure there is plenty of rich, lush greenery.
Hamptons-style gardens in Australia usually include a combination of native and non-native trees, as many natives don’t have the vibrant green leaves required to achieve the Hamptons look.
- Choose the Right Plants
Opt for a mix of formal and informal plantings. Boxwoods, hydrangeas, and lavender are excellent choices for a Hamptons-style garden. These plants are not only beautiful, but also evoke a sense of coastal living.
Agapanthus are a popular choice for Australian Hamptons-style gardens, as not only do they have lush green leaves and beautiful blue, purple, or white floral heads, but they are also extremely hardy and can usually withstand our harsh summers.
Finally, think about how your garden will look across different seasons. Choose plants that offer year-round interest and make sure that your combination of plants and trees will allow for a lush green garden all year round.
- Introduce a Water Feature
Nothing screams luxury like a water feature. A fountain, pond, or even a small birdbath can serve as a focal point in your Hamptons-style garden design, adding a touch of elegance and tranquillity.
- Incorporate Lighting
Outdoor lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Go for soft, ambient lighting by using lanterns, fairy lights, or even solar garden stakes. Place them strategically to illuminate pathways, seating areas, and water features.
- Add Garden Accessories
To complete the look, accessorise your garden with elegant, but functional items like planters, garden statues, or trellises. But make sure these match the overall aesthetic and colour scheme of your Hamptons garden style.
- Maintain Regularly
The final tip is straightforward but often overlooked – maintenance. A well-kept garden is vital in preserving the upscale look of the Hamptons style. Regular pruning, cleaning, and updating of garden accessories can go a long way in maintaining your garden’s pristine condition.
Image via Driftwood Interiors
Take Your Hamptons Garden to the Next Level
After incorporating the core elements mentioned above, you might wonder how you can take your Hamptons-style garden to the next level. Here are some extra tips to make your space even more charming and authentic.
- Create Multiple Outdoor Zones
The luxurious gardens in the Hamptons often feature multiple outdoor zones for different activities, such as dining, lounging, and even a play area for kids. Consider adding a patio for alfresco dining or a fire pit where family and friends can gather on cool evenings. The idea is to create a multifunctional space that extends your home’s living area.
- Incorporate Natural Elements
Bring in natural elements like stones, driftwood, or seashells to echo the coastal vibe. These can be utilised in the form of garden ornaments or can even serve practical purposes, like using flat stones for pathways.
- Build an Outdoor Kitchen or Bar
Nothing says opulence like an outdoor kitchen or a bar. If your space and budget allow, adding this feature could truly encapsulate the leisurely Hamptons lifestyle. From BBQs to cocktail parties, an outdoor cooking area will make your garden the ultimate entertainment destination.
- Consider a Pergola or Gazebo
A pergola or gazebo can add architectural interest to your Hamptons-style garden design. Draped with climbing plants like roses or wisteria, these structures provide shade and create an enchanting space for relaxation or entertainment.
- Install a Hammock or Swing
For the ultimate touch of laid-back luxury, consider adding a hammock or a garden swing. It will become your favourite spot for relaxation and encapsulates the easy-going, seaside ethos that is synonymous with the Hamptons. Just be sure to stick to the Hamptons colour palette – no bright oranges or yellows!
Ready to Create a Hamptons Garden?
Creating your dream Hamptons-style yard is all about meticulous planning, thoughtful choices, and a keen eye for detail. This may require some investment in terms of time and resources, but the result is well worth the effort.
By following our top tips, you can transform your outdoor space into a relaxing, elegant haven that embodies the timeless appeal of a Hamptons-style garden.
So, why wait? Embark on your garden transformation journey today and bring the idyllic serenity of a modern Hamptons-style garden right to your doorstep!
For more information on our range of custom-designed Hamptons fencing, please contact the friendly team at Fencemakers today.
