Picture your ideal coastal home. You might see beautiful Hamptons-style designs, big kitchens, and calming beach colors.
Transform your dream into an Australian coastal home,
If you’re dreaming of creating your own piece of paradise, whether in a new development or through a knockdown rebuild, here’s a handy checklist to ensure you cover all the essentials.
1. Choose a timeless facade
The exterior of your home makes a strong first impression.
Therefore, it’s important to choose a coastal design that reflects your style and taste.
Hamptons-inspired facades are currently attracting many buyers, according to Robert Nguyen, senior designer at the ABN Group.
He explains that the Hamptons style is traditional and coastal, yet it encompasses a wide range of themes.
There are various interpretations of this style, which has gained immense popularity recently.
Common features often include white-washed timber and gabled roofs.
However, more modern takes feature sleek lines and muted tones.
Nguyen notes that people are willing to invest more for that desirable Hamptons look.
As a result, Boutique Homes has developed a facade series that caters to different budgets.
This series ranges from cost-effective, simple Hamptons-style facades to high-end designs like the Rhode Island facade.
Nguyen adds that choosing a premium option includes unique details that add character and depth.
On the Rhode Island facade, extra features include iconic elements of the Hamptons style.
These elements consist of double gables, a four-post veranda, French doors, and gridded windows.
Additionally, there’s a covered balcony with an extended roof and painted mouldings alongside weatherboard cladding.
Colors are also a key consideration in the design process.
Nguyen mentions that they often display the facade in white with black windows and doors.
In the past, they have also used grey or slightly bluish cladding with white windows for a unique touch.
This variety adds a personal element to the overall design, making it truly your own.
2. A stunning kitchen
No coastal home is complete without a spacious, welcoming kitchen.
An inviting kitchen typically features a central island bench and premium appliances as essential elements.
However, Nguyen emphasizes that the best kitchens go beyond the basics with unique details.
He explains that cabinetry can include classic shaker profile doors and drawers for added charm.
Other Hamptons-style elements that enhance a coastal kitchen include wood panelling on the breakfast bench cupboard.
Moreover, feature stone benchtops add elegance and a luxurious touch to the space.
Beautiful brass fittings are also a fantastic addition, contributing to the overall aesthetic.
Finally, classic pendant lighting helps create a warm and inviting atmosphere in the kitchen.
3. Plenty of natural light
Coastal homes are known for their light and airy feel.
Large windows, skylights, and glass doors are crucial for filling the interior with natural light.
Nguyen highlights that window placement is essential for both atmosphere and sustainability.
It’s important to maximize light coming from the north while minimizing glazing on the south side.
This approach helps to avoid heat loss during winter months.
Additionally, Nguyen explains that Boutique Homes employs double glazing to further reduce heat loss.
This is combined with wall insulation and zoned living for optimal temperature control.
As a result, spaces can be efficiently heated and cooled while maintaining ample windows for natural light.
4. A unique design feature
Every dream home requires a standout feature that distinguishes it from others.
This could be a striking fireplace with a stone mantle or a dramatic staircase.
Additionally, an eye-catching art piece can enhance the charm of a coastal-style home.
Nguyen notes that these features provide an “experience” for both visitors and owners alike.
He explains that one of their designs features a staircase that opens into a void.
This design element adds significant volume to the center of the house.
As a result, it creates a feeling of openness as you move through the space.
Furthermore, they offer another floor plan with a void over the living area.
This design creates a larger, full-height space that enhances the main living area.
Such features have proven to be incredibly popular among homebuyers.
5. Indoor-outdoor living
A fundamental aspect of coastal living is the seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
In fact, keyword searches on realestate.com.au in 2023 showed that outdoor areas were the fifth most popular request.
Thus, incorporating bi-fold or sliding glass doors can effectively connect your living areas to the outdoors.
This allows you to fully embrace the beauty of nature and enjoy the fresh air.
6. Continuity in design
Creating a sense of flow throughout your home is essential for a cohesive coastal design.
Nguyen emphasizes that the interior should complement the exterior; otherwise, it may feel “jarring.”
For a Hamptons-style home, it’s important to have a floor plan and interior design that reflect the timeless coastal vibe.
Additionally, using a consistent color palette and coordinating decor is crucial.
This uniformity helps create a harmonious flow, connecting each room and enhancing the overall aesthetic.
To truly experience the charm of a coastal vibe, visit Boutique Homes’ new knockdown rebuild display.
It is located at 62 Jasper Road, Bentleigh.
This display showcases the grand Toorak home design along with the stunning new Rhode Island façade.
