11 amazing summer rental homes in the Hamptons

This article showcases five holiday homes, each featuring a unique infinity pool design, located across various picturesque regions, offering a luxurious escape and an immersive experience with nature. Infinity pools are highlighted as an ideal way to combat summer heat, creating an illusion of boundless space and tranquility by seamlessly merging with the surrounding landscape. The first featured property is an eco-conscious home in Kerala, named 'Malhar.' This weekend retreat, designed by architect Vivek PP of De Earth, is situated on a six-acre plot near Payyannur, Kannur. The owners, originally from Bengaluru, envision making this their permanent residence. The home features a cobbled pathway leading to a foyer, and an open-to-sky infinity pool, surrounded by areca palm trees, is central to a courtyard. The pool provides expansive views of nearby plantations, fulfilling the owners' desire for a lush, green environment integrated with music. Next is a second-generation summer home in Ahmedabad, a project by Rushi Shah and Vidisha Shah. This property is notable for its integration with the abundant trees on its verdant outskirts. Initially conceived as a standard two-bedroom dwelling, the design evolved to prioritize open spaces and a harmonious relationship with nature. The infinity pool at the front of the house is strategically positioned on a lawn slope, creating a stunning visual effect that allows inhabitants to fully appreciate the encompassing landscape, functioning as a viewing gallery. A lakeside home in Kamshet, Maharashtra, is also presented, owned by dance practitioner Avantika Bahl and consultant Avinash Goyal. This property, located on a unique lakeside parcel in the ghats, is described as extraordinary, with dancing grasses and a design that resonates with Bahl's artistic sensibilities. The home is characterized by a series of pavilions that offer increasingly spectacular lake views. Its design is intended to appear naturally integrated into the environment, featuring elements like colorful living room blocks that interact with sunlight and a half-moon shaped pool that mirrors the lake, creating a celestial impression. The fourth property is a coffee estate in Coorg, converted into a vacation home by Studio 4A co-founders Vijay Narayanan and Appachu Nanjappa. This 4,000-square-foot, single-story, gable-roofed house is set amidst a coffee estate with distant views of elk hills, and its structure is subtly integrated into the elevated terrain. The architects emphasized celebrating the natural landscape and climate, incorporating tropical architectural elements such as long verandahs, courtyards, high ceilings, and folding doors. These features create interconnected outdoor spaces, including an exterior infinity swimming pool, stepped sunken seating, and a deck that extends from the living area. Finally, a blissful getaway in Karjat offers an elevated perspective of the hillside. This luxurious 8,000-square-foot, two-story abode, spanning over six acres, includes a garden, swimming pool, and gaming room, all enveloped by lush greenery. Amritha Karnakar, principal architect at AKAD, designed the interiors to be minimal, ensuring that the focus remains on the undulating hillside views and the tranquil Kalote lake. An infinity pool on the ground floor deck, complemented by sunbeds, allows residents to immerse themselves in the green vistas, making it an ideal weekend retreat from the urban bustle of Mumbai. #HolidayHomes #InfinityPools #LuxuryTravel #ArchitecturalDesign #EcoConsciousHomes #LakesideProperties #CoffeeEstateHomes #ModernAesthetic

This blog post highlights a three-bedroom East Hampton rental property available for short-term stays, offering a luxurious and stylish getaway experience. The house, situated on a half-acre of meticulously landscaped grounds, is presented as an ideal location for an end-of-summer vacation. The rental is currently listed at $12,000 per week during the season or $40,000 per month, with a reduced monthly rate of $20,000 after Labor Day. The interior design of the home is described as chic and on-trend, featuring high-quality finishes and decor. The main communal area is a sun-drenched great room, characterized by vaulted ceilings and skylights that enhance the natural light. A wood-burning fireplace adds to the cozy ambiance of this space. The first floor also includes a brightly lit, well-appointed eat-in kitchen, which is equipped with a large island breakfast bar and modern stainless steel appliances, including a vented gas range. A notable feature of the house is the sunroom, which boasts a stylish accent wall adorned with a tropical foliage print, creating a vibrant and contemporary aesthetic. A large wall of windows in the sunroom offers direct views of, and access to, the outdoor pool and patio area, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. On the first floor, the master bedroom is described as a private retreat, complete with an en-suite bathroom and a spacious walk-in closet. A conveniently located powder room is also available on this level for guests. The upper floor of the house accommodates two additional bedrooms and a full bathroom featuring double sinks, providing ample space and facilities for larger groups or families. The outdoor amenities are a significant draw of this rental property. The tranquil and private exterior space includes a wraparound deck, perfect for relaxation and entertaining. A heated swimming pool is available for enjoyment regardless of the weather, complemented by an outdoor fireplace for evening gatherings and a BBQ grill for al fresco dining. The property also features expansive open lawns, offering plenty of space for outdoor activities. The house's location is strategically advantageous, being just a few miles from both East Hampton Village and Sag Harbor Village, providing easy access to local attractions, dining, and shopping. The listing for this property is managed by Averitt Buttry for Corcoran Group, and all accompanying images are provided courtesy of Corcoran Group. #EastHampton #LuxuryRental #VacationHome #HamptonsRealEstate #OutdoorLiving #PoolHome #InteriorDesign #ShortTermRental #CorcoranGroup

Mona Nerenberg, owner of the chic home-design shop Bloom in Sag Harbor, New York, and her partner Lisa Bynon, a landscape designer, transformed a dilapidated 19th-century cottage, known as Redbrook, in North Sea, Hamptons, into their summer home. Despite Nerenberg's shop embodying a perfect aesthetic, her personal home is described as more relaxed and filled with friends, family, and pets. The couple, who previously lived in a smaller two-bedroom home in Sag Harbor, sought more space and discovered the three-acre property online. They were immediately captivated by the picturesque, albeit overgrown, cottage, which Nerenberg affectionately called a “sleeping beauty covered in vines.” The cottage, originally owned by the Geers family who operated a fish market on the property, offered sweeping views and no immediate neighbors. The previous owners’ neglect meant the house featured run-down bathrooms and kitchen, and an attic infested with hundreds of bats. However, Nerenberg and Bynon were undeterred. They addressed the bat issue, refurbished the floors, and moved in with their two Bengal cats. Nerenberg, known for her minimalist taste, aimed for a renovation that would preserve the house’s original character while modernizing its functionality. Mark Cunningham, an ELLE DECOR A-List member and a close friend who also designed Bloom, collaborated on the home's interior. With Cunningham's assistance, the bathrooms were updated, retaining the original claw-foot tub but incorporating new fittings and penny-tile floors. The kitchen, once dark and uninviting, was revitalized with new windows, a beamed ceiling, and reclaimed paint-spattered wood planks from the attic, which had once served as an art studio. Cunningham also sourced many home accessories, art, and vintage furniture pieces from Nerenberg's shop, creating a cohesive aesthetic between the store and the home. The home features items such as an 18th-century Swedish table, vintage Pierre Jeanneret chairs, and a circa-1940 Marolles lamp. Bynon primarily focused on transforming the neglected gardens. She cleared overgrown trees and bushes, revealing manicured lawns, hedge-framed sections with ferns and flowers, a large vegetable garden, and a chicken coop. A new orchard of fruit trees is also underway. Despite Nerenberg's initial inclination against electric lighting, Cunningham convinced her to install elegant plaster chandeliers in the dining room, highlighting her appreciation for beautifully crafted, simple items. The interiors strike a balance between elegant and beachy, combining white linen upholstery, antiques, and natural elements like baskets and apple-matting rugs. Michael Dweck artworks and a Ralph Lauren Home sofa also feature in the home. Nerenberg acknowledged that the house remains a work in progress, aspiring for a modern style that still embraces its unique quirks. The home is consistently filled with family and friends, reinforcing its role as a vibrant living space rather than a showroom. This transformation, published in the July/August 2016 issue of ELLE DECOR, showcases a personalized and evolving design journey, emphasizing that a home, unlike a perfectly curated shop, is meant to be lived in and continuously evolve. #HamptonsDesign #SummerHouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LandscapeDesign #VintageFurniture #MonaNerenberg #LisaBynon #MarkCunningham

This article explores a Hamptons beach house designed by Tami Wassong, highlighting five key design lessons that contribute to its tranquil, coastal aesthetic. The home serves as a peaceful sanctuary for its owners, offering a luxurious yet understated environment that prioritizes calm and connection with nature. Wassong's design philosophy centers on creating a space where one can 'exhale' upon entering, nourishing the mind, lifting spirits, and fostering connections with family and friends. One of the primary lessons from this design is the strategic use of a tonal palette. The color scheme, inspired by the natural surroundings of the Hamptons, incorporates white, ivory, blues, soft grays, and matte black accents. This approach, which aligns with current color trends focused on creating cocooning environments, builds layers of depth and interest through the integration of warm, natural materials. The colors chosen reflect the homeowners' preferences and the home's proximity to the water, ensuring a harmonious and serene atmosphere. The second crucial element is the maximization of natural light. The home's design, orchestrated by architects at Mojo Stumer, features extensive glass elements that flood the interior with a warm glow, immediately creating a welcoming and tranquil ambiance. This abundance of natural light is emphasized as a mood enhancer, fostering a sense of calm. The article also touches upon biophilic design, noting how the large windows provide stunning seascape views from nearly every angle, thereby forging a strong connection with nature. Even without double-story windows or a waterfront, the principles of bringing the outside in through natural materials and foliage can be applied to any space. Thirdly, the design masterfully employs hidden storage to maintain a clutter-free environment, which is presented as essential for calm. Tami Wassong, a self-proclaimed minimalist, designed custom millwork throughout the home to ensure every item has a designated place, thereby eliminating visual clutter and stress. This is particularly evident in the kitchen, where appliances are concealed behind discreet pocket doors, allowing for an airy, open-plan ground floor that remains highly functional for family living. The fourth lesson involves the creation of cozy, inviting spaces. The designer's objective was to craft areas where the owners could comfortably unwind and relax, fostering a sense of peace. This was achieved by designing spaces that encourage lingering, whether for reading, entertaining, or simply enjoying the peaceful exterior views. The open-plan living room exemplifies this, combining sophisticated design with a relaxed, modern appeal through sleek interiors, plush upholstery, and warm, glowing light. These elements are easily replicable to emulate the home's ethos of comfort and style. Finally, the article highlights the importance of mixing materials to add texture and depth while maintaining a calm environment. Wassong incorporated natural wood and stone to reinforce the connection to nature and complement the tonal palette. The furnishings, upholstery, and fittings adhere to a monochromatic color scheme, but the varied textures of wood, plaster, metal, and fabric contribute significantly to the home's distinctive character. Suggestions for achieving this look include incorporating plush wool, boucle, and worn leather. #HamptonsBeachHouse #CoastalDecor #InteriorDesign #CalmInteriors #TonalPalette #NaturalLight #HiddenStorage #CozySpaces #MaterialMixing #BiophilicDesign

Beach cabanas and umbrellas have transitioned from lavish accessories to essential items, particularly given increased awareness of sun damage. The use of these sun shades has sparked a debate, with some advocating for sun safety due to Australia's high skin cancer rates, while others express concerns about them taking up excessive beach space or being used to 'reserve' prime spots. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has weighed in, stating that 'beach hogging' is unacceptable, reinforcing the principle that all Australians should be equal at the beach. Despite the ongoing debate, the effectiveness of beach umbrellas and cabanas for sun protection remains undisputed. Beyond their protective function, these items are increasingly seen as stylish additions to a beach outing, featuring designs with tassels, stripes, and scallop edging that contribute to a fashionable summer aesthetic. These portable awnings are presented as a way to enjoy long days on the sand while staying cool and making a style statement. The article then presents a curated list of 10 stylish beach cabanas and umbrellas, offering alternatives to popular brands like Cool Cabana. Each product is detailed with its key features, size, available colors, material, and price, along with a recommendation for its best use case. The first item, the Sunny Life Casa Stripe weekend beach cabana, is highlighted for its family-friendly size (200cm x 200cm x 230cm) and UPF50 protection, designed for easy setup. Next, the Basil Bangs weekend umbrella is featured as a colorful and lighter option (170cm x 210cm) with a timeless design. The Sunday Supply Co. beach umbrella offers an XL size (200cm x 230cm) and distinctive animal prints, suitable for various outdoor settings. For solo beachgoers, the Swim Shady is presented as a compact (140cm x 100cm), ultra-portable awning specifically designed to offer unobtrusive shade. The Somewhere Co.'s Bubblegum premium beach cabana is recommended for those wanting to showcase personality, featuring bright colors, a large interior (2m x 2m), internal pockets, and UPF50+ protection. The Basil Bangs premium beach umbrella, with its sophisticated prints and adjustable angle (180cm x 210cm x 32cm), is described as ideal for a boho-chic aesthetic. The Business & Pleasure Co. holiday beach umbrella (190cm x 150cm) provides a nautical look with its stripe design and UPF 50+ rating. The Rivie premium beach cabana from Temple & Webster sets a new standard for luxury, offering a stylish pastel option (195cm x 195cm) that is durable and weather-resistant. The Havana Outdoors portable beach umbrella (200cm x 230cm) is noted for its 70s flair with an all-white design and fringing. Finally, the Business & Pleasure Co. premium beach tent (180cm x 180cm x 180cm) offers a unique, boho-coastal alternative to traditional cabanas, complete with UPF 50 protection and treated canvas. #BeachUmbrellas #BeachCabanas #SunProtection #SummerEssentials #OutdoorLiving #Decorating #HomeDecor #BeachStyle #ProductReview

The Shingle style home, a unique American architectural development, emerged in the 1870s as a blend of Colonial American influences and European architectural styles, particularly from Normandy. This architectural style intentionally moved away from the ornate finishes of grand mansions of the 19th century, embracing a more informal aesthetic. Key characteristics include rambling, asymmetric structures with minimal exterior ornamentation, aside from their distinctive wood-shingle cladding. These homes often featured open floorplans centered around a central hall, and interiors could range from intricate wood paneling in public rooms to simpler beadboard and other finishes. The Shingle style became a popular choice for summer houses among the Northeastern elite, valued for its comfortable and less formal personality. Though many iconic examples, such as McKim, Mead & White’s Low House, have been demolished, some remain on the market, offering a glimpse into this historical period. Three examples of Shingle style homes currently for sale in New England illustrate the diversity within this architectural movement. The first, "The Boulders" in Jamestown, Rhode Island, built in 1888, exemplifies the eclectic and rambling nature of the style. Its exterior features a playful arrangement of gables, porches, and turrets, embodying the casual feeling the style aimed for. The interior maintains this informality with thoughtfully designed but roughly carved paneling in the main hall and simple, irregular finishes in the bedrooms, with fireplaces being a notable exception for their intricate ornamentation. This home encapsulates the comfortable, cobbled-together aesthetic popular at the end of the 19th century. A second example, an 1890 home in Edgartown, Massachusetts, demonstrates how the Shingle style was adapted for smaller-scale residences. This house features an open floorplan where the foyer seamlessly flows into the living room, leading to a dining room, all opening onto a back porch with ocean views. The design prioritizes air circulation and connection to the outdoors. Unlike larger Shingle style homes, its woodwork is kept simple, utilizing beadboard, diamond-paned windows, and modest door surrounds. At 3,700 square feet, this residence was conceived as an informal retreat, despite its current high valuation. The third property, located in Dublin, New Hampshire, illustrates that not all Shingle style homes were coastal. This estate showcases a purposeful asymmetry in its exterior, with elements like dormers, gables, and porches, and a main gable subtly shifted to the left. A notable aspect of this home is the visible influence of the Colonial Revival style, which was also popular in the late 19th century. The central hall, typical of Shingle style, is adorned with finely carved woodwork reminiscent of Colonial architecture, particularly around the fireplace, where the carvings are light and graceful, contrasting with the heavier paneling seen in the Jamestown house. These three homes collectively highlight the defining characteristics, regional adaptations, and evolutionary influences within the Shingle style architecture. #ShingleStyle #NewEnglandHomes #HistoricHomes #Architecture #RealEstate #RhodeIsland #Massachusetts #NewHampshire

This article explores over 20 luxury rooftop and patio designs, offering inspiration for enhancing outdoor spaces for summer entertaining. With summer approaching, the focus is on creating versatile and inviting al fresco environments, whether for barbecues, day parties, or sunbathing. The designs featured are sourced from Dering Hall, showcasing a variety of styles and functionalities to transform any rooftop or patio into a luxurious outdoor haven. The featured designs include a Gold Coast private rooftop deck that evokes a modern picnic style, complete with a stone-and-wood dining table and city views, designed by Inspired Interiors. Another example is a covered terrace in San Francisco, drawing inspiration from mid-century modern aesthetics with period-appropriate chairs and a patterned rug, a creation of Deniece Duscheone Inc. The article also presents a tropical-inspired design by James Duncan, Inc., featuring ocean blue floors and palm leaf pillows that blend harmoniously with a verdant backdrop. For those seeking seaside ambiance, a Miami rooftop terrace by Magdalena Keck Interior Design offers bar stools positioned for dining with a view. The importance of lighting for transitioning from day to night is highlighted with a design by De-Spec, which incorporates simple string lights to create a cozy atmosphere. Lush greenery is central to a design by bba ARCHITECTS, transforming a terrace into a relaxing urban oasis with a spacious couch and built-in fire pit. Further examples include a fully-loaded roof deck by Slifer Designs, equipped with a stainless steel BBQ and a plunge pool for grand summer parties. Kara Mann Design introduces a personal park concept with a grass lawn for lounging and games. Morgante-Wilson’s design showcases a sophisticated fireplace, adding an elegant touch to a minimalist rooftop. Mediterranean elegance is achieved by Mark Scott Associates, emphasizing diverse seating options for prolonged festivities. Carden Cunietti demonstrates effective space utilization by sectioning a roof with tall bushes to separate dining and lounge areas. Burns + Beyerl Architects present a low-set rooftop with natural shade, ideal for day-long gatherings. Daniella Villamil Interiors channels local geography through organic fabrics and decor in a desert-serene setting. Fairfax & Sammons offer a long, lean terrace design for enjoying sweeping views. Ginger Barber Design provides a practical indoor-outdoor setup for respite from the heat. Kristin Paton Interiors advise on using umbrellas for sun protection on decks. Magdalena Keck Interior Design again features with a sleek, modern, all-white seating arrangement. LKID focuses on comfort with long loungers for leisurely days. Mariani Landscape emphasizes a large dining table for urban views, perfect for sunset dinner parties. Lastly, Martin Brudnizki Design Studio adds a rustic touch with white-washed wood railings and a cozy patterned couch, completing a comprehensive guide to luxurious rooftop and patio transformations. #RooftopDesign #PatioIdeas #SummerEntertaining #OutdoorLiving #LuxuryDesign #AlFrescoDining #HomeDecoration #InteriorDesign #TerraceIdeas

This article details the design of a summer home on Lake George, specifically focusing on its indoor and outdoor kitchens and a butler's pantry, all engineered to accommodate extensive entertaining and large gatherings. Arthur Zobel of Zobel & Co. Kitchens, in collaboration with AJA Architecture & Planning and Hilltop Construction Company, designed the new-build residence with an emphasis on creating an enjoyable experience for both homeowners and guests. The indoor kitchen embodies a classic Adirondack design style, featuring Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry shaker-style cabinets painted in Benjamin Moore's Revere Pewter, complemented by Top Knobs Riverside hardware in a Honey Bronze finish. The cabinetry integrates paneled GE Monogram refrigerators, Miele dishwashers, and an XO beverage center, along with built-in GE wall ovens, warming drawers, and speed ovens. A custom Plain & Fancy wood surround conceals the ventilation hood above the GE range, flanked by two windows. Specialized organizational accessories, including spice racks, knife holders, and tray dividers, are integrated into the cabinetry, while a LeMans pull-out shelving system maximizes corner cabinet space. A narrow, custom floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinet utilizes otherwise overlooked space, offering ample storage for various pantry items. The upper cabinets are custom-fitted to accommodate the reclaimed timber beams that crisscross the ceiling, a technical design feature that bridges old and new materials and supports other Adirondack elements in the home, such as a stone-clad fireplace and a deer antler chandelier. The kitchen's expansive island provides additional seating and storage, housing a dishwasher, trash/recycling pull-out, and a 4-foot Create Good Sinks workstation sink with dual faucets, catering to multiple cooks. A second Kohler undermount sink on the perimeter includes a water filtration faucet and a sparkling water faucet for the homeowner's preference. Recognizing the family's dog, a dedicated pet feeding and storage cabinet was incorporated, complete with a pot filler for easy water refills. This cabinet also features built-in outlets for charging electronics. Caesarstone's Palm Shade quartz, known for its durability and ease of cleaning, is used for all countertops in the kitchen and butler's pantry, its milky white foundation with light greige veining harmonizing with the neutral, warm gray cabinetry. The butler's pantry, accessible from the kitchen via a pocket door with reeded glass, offers supplementary storage and houses an 18-inch GE column freezer and a second Miele dishwasher. Its Plain & Fancy base cabinetry, open shelving, and appliance panels are painted in Benjamin Moore's Wolf Gray, chosen to complement the blue/gray tones of the graphic tile floor. A white Nantucket Sinks fireclay apron-front sink and a white subway tile backsplash match the aesthetic of the main kitchen. The outdoor living space is equally crucial for entertaining. Zobel designed an outdoor kitchen beneath a second-floor bedroom, providing partial protection from the elements and allowing for the inclusion of a fan, heater, lights, and speakers in the ceiling. A nearly 8-foot ceiling-mounted Trade-Wind ventilation hood is custom-designed to manage smoke from the 36-inch Alfresco grill and 30-inch Coyote Outdoors smoker. The interior wall, shared with the main kitchen, features a trio of sliding windows for convenient pass-through of food and drinks. The Caesarstone Palm Shade quartz countertop, rated for exterior use, creates continuity with the indoor kitchen and is supported by NatureKast Weatherproof Cabinetry in Cobalt Linen, which matches the home's trim and complements the stone accenting the interior wall and the kitchen's exterior façade. The outdoor cabinetry offers extensive storage, including a double trash/recycling pull-out, a drawer for a Gozney Roccbox pizza oven, a Coyote warming drawer, and two undercounter refrigerators (a Summit Appliance two-drawer model and a Zephyr single-door unit), all strategically placed for guest accessibility from the adjacent outdoor dining and lounging areas. #KitchenDesign #OutdoorKitchen #ButlerPantry #SummerHome #EntertainingSpaces #AdirondackStyle #CustomCabinetry #InteriorDesign #HomeAppliances #QuartzCountertops

The home remodeling and design platform Houzz has released its 2025 Emerging Summer Trends Report, highlighting eight key design trends that are currently generating significant interest among homeowners and design professionals. These trends, identified through analysis of online search data, offer insights into what buyers are looking for in home aesthetics and functionality. One prominent trend is the "color drenching" technique, which involves using a single color across walls, trim, and furniture to create immersive, mood-setting environments. Searches for this monochromatic or analogous color scheme approach have quadrupled, indicating a desire for more personalized and cohesive spaces. Another significant trend centers on "wood-drenched spaces," reflecting an increased incorporation of natural materials. Searches have surged for elements like light hardwood floors in living rooms, wood-paneled offices, woven wood shades, and white oak storage solutions for kitchens and bathrooms, suggesting a preference for organic textures and warmth in interiors. Vintage style is also making a comeback, with homeowners seeking to infuse authenticity, charm, and character into their living areas. This includes growing interest in vintage bathroom vanities, vintage living room aesthetics, and traditional pieces such as china cabinets and hutches, aiming for a sense of nostalgia and storied elegance. Warm metal accents are gaining popularity, adding sparkle and sophistication to home interiors. Searches for copper pendant lighting, gold bathroom vanity lights, brushed gold bathroom faucets, and gold lamps are on the rise. Additionally, copper kitchen sinks and range hoods are noted for creating a "glam-meets-industrial look." The enduring appeal of French country style is evident, with increasing interest in French country bathrooms, chandeliers, and modern French country kitchens. This style, often characterized by floral wallpaper and charming cottage-core details, is favored for its ability to soften spaces. Beverage stations are emerging as a sought-after functional feature, with searches for dedicated whiskey bars, coffee bars, beverage and wine fridges, and small wet bars on the rise. This trend indicates a desire for convenient and visually appealing drink setups within homes. Homeowners are also prioritizing "fun zones" within their residences, creating dedicated areas for recreation and creativity. Online searches have increased for activity spaces such as putting greens, Lego rooms, billiard rooms, and video game rooms, as well as for traditional game tables and poker tables. Finally, low-water landscaping is a growing trend, driven by concerns over water shortages and a desire for reduced yard maintenance. Searches for succulent gardens have tripled, and interest in Mediterranean gardens and landscapes has doubled. Homeowners are also exploring practical solutions like decomposed granite landscapes to promote sustainability in their outdoor spaces. #HomeDesignTrends #SummerTrends #InteriorDesign #ExteriorDesign #HomeRemodeling #HouzzReport #ColorDrenching #NaturalMaterials #VintageDecor

This blog post details a selection of 13 overwater bungalows across various popular destinations, highlighting their unique features and amenities. The article aims to assist travelers in choosing an ideal overwater accommodation for their next vacation, ranging from private rentals to luxurious resorts. It covers locations such as Bora Bora, Fiji, Florida, Jamaica, Panama, The Maldives, Aruba, and Mexico. In Bora Bora, four distinct options are presented. "Overwater Bungalow N ° 3" is a nearly 1,200 sq ft luxurious rental, once owned by Jack Nicholson, offering panoramic views, a large living room opening to a lagoon-view terrace with deck chairs and a barbecue, and provided snorkeling gear and a kayak. "Tahatai Iti," located next to Bungalow N ° 3, is another privately owned 1,200 sq ft bungalow with two air-conditioned bedrooms, a covered lanai, and included kayaks for exploring the lagoon. "The Black Pearl" is the sole privately owned overwater bungalow in Bora Bora with its own private walkway, featuring full air conditioning, in-bungalow catering, outdoor furniture, a gas grill, a private dock, and kayaks. "Brando’s Overwater Bungalow," from the same owners as The Black Pearl, offers similar amenities and is noted for being family-friendly while still maintaining a luxurious experience. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort offers a resort-style option with several overwater bungalows, featuring azure waters, views of Mount Otemanu, a private Lagoonarium with diverse marine life, multiple pools, five restaurants, a fitness center, and butler service. In Fiji, the Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay provides overwater bures on Viti Levu’s western coast, characterized by vaulted ceilings and private outdoor decks. This five-star resort includes a beach, three pools, a spa, and oceanfront dining. Florida presents two unique overwater experiences. The "Key West Tiki Suite" is an Airbnb resembling a hut on a dock, offering a king-sized bed, a small kitchen, and a compact bathroom. Guests access it via water taxi and are advised to pack food as there's no refrigerator. It includes snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and a hammock, providing incredible sunset and sunrise views. "Lake House Blue" near Daytona Beach is a Vrbo located on a lake, offering a private retreat on a 250-foot dock with a wood-burning fireplace, firepit, Adirondack chairs, and screened-in porches. It's ideal for fishing, with crab and shrimp traps provided, and nearby horseback riding. Jamaica features the Sandals South Coast OTW Bungalows in Whitehouse, an all-inclusive resort with deluxe interiors, hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, spa-style bathrooms, private patios with sun loungers, outdoor showers, and dining areas. These bungalows include over-water hammocks or private Tranquility Soaking Tubs and glass floor panels for marine life viewing. Luxury amenities consist of Butler Elite service, in-room dining, expedited airport services, and various water sports. Panama's "Sol Bungalow On Isla Solarte" offers island living in Bocas del Toro, featuring views of mountains and sunsets over the Caribbean. It includes glass floors for marine life observation, catamaran deck hammocks, and direct access to snorkeling. Two double-seater kayaks and two paddleboards are provided, with surfboards available for rent. Breakfast is included, and an option for dinner is available, along with rainforest hiking access nearby. The Maldives showcases the "W Maldives Overwater Bungalow," part of a heart-shaped private island resort. These villas offer turquoise lagoon views from hammocks or private pools and access to a house reef for swimming with diverse marine life. Amenities include a diving and watersports center, innovative cuisine, a spa, seaplane transfers, and the W’s Whatever/Whenever® Service. Aruba offers "Aruba Ocean Villas" near Oranjestad, the island's only resort with overwater bungalows. This secluded, adults-only boutique luxury resort provides direct ocean access, outdoor showers, top-class food, and excellent service. Finally, Mexico’s Banyan Tree Mayakoba in Playa Del Carmen features luxury overwater bungalows set above a lagoon. These spacious 2,385 sq ft villas boast private rooftop infinity pools, outdoor soaking tubs, and contemporary design. Despite being close to tourist areas, the resort offers a secluded experience. The article also provides a FAQ section defining overwater bungalows, describing their typical features, listing prime locations (South Pacific, Maldives, Honduras), suggesting activities, and advising on the best time to book (May to October for dry season in French Polynesia). #OverwaterBungalows #LuxuryTravel #TropicalDestinations #BoraBora #Maldives #Caribbean #Fiji #TravelAccommodation #ResortLife

This article details the transformation of a 1910 shingled farmhouse in Watermill, NY, into a serene weekend retreat for a young Manhattan family, undertaken by designer James Huniford. The renovation aimed to modernize the property while preserving its original character, focusing on opening up spaces to natural light and views, and incorporating a subtle color palette enriched by diverse textures and rustic elements. Key structural changes included knocking down walls and converting three smaller rooms into a cohesive, multifunctional loft-like area. Huniford enhanced the architectural interest by removing sheetrock from the ceiling to expose existing beams and adding more to create a more integrated design. The living room features reclaimed wood and plumbing piping bookcases, providing warmth and rustic texture. Furnishings in this space include the designer's Morton Chairs, a custom sofa upholstered in Nobilis linen, and a Huniford Collection ottoman covered in one of his Lee Jofa fabrics. The existing mantelpiece was refined with a slimmer profile, and a Sullivan Square Table, also designed by Huniford, serves as the cocktail table. The dining area showcases a custom table paired with vintage chairs, which were reupholstered in Pierre Frey fabric. A vintage light fixture illuminates the space. To further enhance the farmhouse aesthetic, the original door to the mudroom was replaced with a sliding barn door, contributing additional warmth and texture. The wood flooring throughout the home, sourced from a Vermont barn, was stained a chalky gray, providing a consistent and calming base. In the kitchen, an open-concept design connects directly to the living room. A custom-made sofa was strategically designed to sit below the windowsill, ensuring an uninterrupted view of the outdoors. The kitchen itself features an L-shaped layout with white marble countertops that amplify the natural light. Stools by Industry West and sink fittings by Lefroy Brooks complete the functional and stylish space. An adjacent bar area extends the kitchen's functionality. The master bedroom received an elevated ceiling to enhance the sense of space. A custom bed, upholstered in Huniford’s Bennett fabric for Lee Jofa, is flanked by vintage nightstands, contributing to the room's restful ambiance. The bathroom includes a vintage claw-foot tub and a ceiling light from Circa Lighting. For the daughter’s bedroom, a vintage daybed was upholstered in Zimmer & Rohde embroidery, complemented by a Swedish cabinet and a 1940s rocker, which was re-upholstered in a romantic floral fabric. The window shade fabric is by Pindler. Overall, the design emphasizes comfort, natural elements, and a harmonious blend of old and new, creating an inviting and tranquil environment ideal for a family getaway. #HamptonsFarmhouse #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #RusticModern #WeekendGetaway #JamesHuniford #WatermillNY #ShingledFarmhouse #CustomFurniture

Hollander Design Landscape Architects, led by principal Ed Hollander, approached a Bridgehampton, New York, property with the philosophy that the landscape should be a natural extension of the architecture. This project involved new owners building a modern home to complement an existing traditional guesthouse, leading to a collaboration with architect Tom Kligerman. Kligerman's contemporary design, featuring strong lines and expansive glass walls, provided Hollander Design with an opportunity to integrate water features to reflect and extend these architectural elements into the surrounding landscape. A key design element is a shallow L-shaped reflecting pool that cradles the home's dining room and is visible from the entry. This strategic placement ensures that the vertical glass walls of the house meet the horizontal water 'wall' of the pool. At night, the pool acts as a mirror, unifying the architectural and landscape elements. The water also cascades gently, creating a soothing sound that greets guests at the entrance and subtly draws them into the property. This auditory element, alongside the visual, enhances the sensory experience of arrival. Melissa Reavis, who led the garden's redesign for Hollander Design, explains that the design focuses on creating a sense of discovery. The reflecting pool and surrounding plantings are framed by a green ribbon of clipped boxwoods, interspersed with mounds of Japanese anemone, all beneath pollarded plane trees. This combination creates a dynamic interplay of geometric forms and varied textures. The landscape is not static but is intended to be actively experienced, with different vistas and narratives unfolding from various vantage points as one moves through the garden. Additional features of the landscape include an area where the contemporary home's glass walls meet the L-shaped reflecting pool, reinforced by the clipped boxwood ribbon. A separate, shallow reflecting pool, lined with river rock, further mirrors and extends the home's architecture. Pollarded plane trees are incorporated to provide striking definition without obstructing views of the broader landscape. A bluestone walkway, bordered by boxwoods and mounded Japanese anemone, presents a rich collage of form and texture. Finally, a shady grove of catalpa trees, underplanted with Carex, offers a lush transition to the expansive meadows beyond the main residence. The overall design emphasizes a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, creating a serene and engaging environment for the inhabitants. #HamptonsLandscape #ReflectingPools #ModernArchitecture #HollanderDesign #LandscapeArchitecture #GardenDesign #OutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalIntegration #WaterFeatures

Martha's Vineyard, a renowned New England summer destination, offers a variety of accommodation options, including a growing selection of Airbnbs suitable for diverse travelers. This curated list highlights some of the top Airbnb rentals on the island, catering to different preferences and group sizes, ranging from quaint cottages to spacious homes and even a unique sailboat experience. Each listing is chosen based on factors such as Superhost status, ratings, amenities, location, decor, and guest reviews, ensuring a high-quality stay for visitors. One featured property in Chilmark is a tranquil, modern villa complete with a guest cottage, offering four bedrooms and three baths. This setup provides separate spaces for larger groups or families and boasts private beach access. It borders Sherriff’s Meadow, a 100-acre conservation land ideal for hiking and offering a serene atmosphere. Another option in Edgartown is a group-friendly four-bedroom house with three and a half baths, conveniently located within walking distance of downtown. This property includes a pool, a renovated entertainment barn with games, and indoor-outdoor Bluetooth sound systems, catering to social gatherings while allowing for quieter zones. For those seeking classic charm, a quintessential Victorian beach house in Oak Bluffs, featuring four bedrooms and two baths, is highlighted. Its distinctive lace trim and pink exterior, combined with a funky interior decor of turquoise floors and eclectic furniture, epitomize the island's charm. The house is situated in the historic Copeland District, providing easy access to the town and beach, with a wraparound porch for people-watching. A unique offering in Vineyard Haven allows guests to live a nautical life on a 1960s sailboat, equipped with three bedrooms and two baths. This unusual accommodation offers the experience of overnighting on a working sailboat, anchored in Vineyard Haven Harbor, providing both novelty and convenience to the town's amenities. In Tisbury, a cottage playfully named “Not Your Great Aunt’s Island Cottage” presents three bedrooms and one bath. It features tastefully updated interiors with nautical decor, a large yard for lawn games, and a grill for outdoor cooking. This property is close to bike rentals, a library, and mini-golf. An Aquinnah listing offers a modern treehouse with water views, three bedrooms, and one and a half baths. Its design includes an enormous wall of windows that blend the interior with the outdoors, complemented by a fully stocked kitchen and a fenced yard suitable for children and pets, all while being near stunning sunset spots on the island's west end beaches. Another Chilmark cottage provides a cozy and serene retreat with four bedrooms and three baths. This intimate space features old-school details like shiplap walls and antique furniture, with mostly white interiors bathed in natural light. It includes a spacious patio with lounge furniture and a grill, offering a comfortable setting for relaxation. For solo travelers or couples, a secluded guest studio in Oak Bluffs offers one bed and one bath. Located a short cab ride from the ferry, it adjoins over 30 acres of conservation land, providing access to hiking and biking trails, while remaining minutes away from beaches and restaurants. A recently renovated beach house in West Tisbury, with four bedrooms and three baths, showcases a reverse-style design where bedrooms are on the ground floor and common areas are on the second floor. This layout maximizes natural light and privacy, especially in the open-plan kitchen and sitting area, and is situated on 1.6 quiet acres near Long Point Beach and Long Point Wildlife Refuge. Lastly, a delightfully retro waterfront cottage in Menemsha, featuring four bedrooms and two baths, offers colorful kitchen cabinets, turquoise painted floors, and knotty pine paneled walls. It boasts water views and a private staircase leading to a secluded section of the beach, providing a unique and private coastal experience. #Martha'sVineyard #AirbnbRentals #NewEngland #VacationRentals #CoastalLiving #IslandGetaway #TravelAccommodation #LuxuryRentals

The latest lookbook curated by Dezeen showcases a collection of eight Scandinavian summer houses distinguished by their extraordinary interiors. These vacation homes, located across Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, move beyond traditional cabin designs to present imaginative architectural and interior solutions. The lookbook is part of a series that offers visual inspiration from Dezeen's extensive archive, focusing on themes such as minimalist bedrooms, colorful resin floors, and statement staircases. The featured homes exemplify diverse approaches to modern Scandinavian summer living. Heatherhill Beach House in Denmark, designed by Norm Architects, incorporates a contemporary feel with a brick floor laid in a grid pattern, contrasting with traditional elements. Douglas fir wall paneling, a dolomite plaster fireplace, and a marble kitchen island define its interior. Saltviga House in Norway by Kolman Boye Architects creatively utilizes timber flooring offcuts, cladding its exterior in oak and furnishing its interior with waste Douglas fir, providing cabinet fronts and smooth screed floors, along with steeply sloping ceilings and expansive window walls. Förstberg Ling's House with a Hidden Atrium in Denmark features a secluded central courtyard accessible only through the toilet, with varying ceiling heights and a double-height main bedroom creating dramatic spatial experiences. Hee House in Sweden, by Studio Ellsinger, is characterized by its distinctive hat-shaped aluminum roof and high ceilings. The design cleverly integrates an expansive bookshelf wall to create split-level bedrooms and double-height living spaces, maximizing space with features like a built-in stove, compact kitchen, and corner bench. Mentze Ottenstein’s renovation of the Dinesen Country Home in Denmark, a 19th-century longhouse, introduces soft color tones and contemporary twists on period furniture. This guesthouse features a dark brown library with ash bookshelves, a forest-green kitchen, and pale yellow reception rooms. Vipp Cold Hawaii in Denmark, designed by Hahn Lavsen for the homeware brand Vipp, is organized around two large chimneys that divide the interior into three sections. The eastern section houses the living space and an anodized aluminum kitchen, with furniture in neutral shades mirroring the surrounding dune landscape. Cabin Nordmarka in Norway, by Rever & Drage, features a large, unusually shaped window that dictates its compact, open-plan layout. The dining area offers expansive forest views, while sleep spaces are strategically placed away from the window, and a bed platform provides under-floor storage. Finally, Villa Vassdal in Sweden, designed by Studio Holmberg, uses birch plywood for walls and built-in furniture to create a monolithic yet warm interior on a small Gothenburg archipelago island. Built-in bookshelves and soft furnishings add subtle color accents. This collection of summer houses highlights innovative design and thoughtful integration with nature, redefining the traditional Scandinavian summer retreat. #ScandinavianDesign #SummerHouses #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #NordicArchitecture #ContemporaryLiving #HolidayHomes #CabinDesign #VacationRetreats

Bungalow-style homes, popular in the United States between the 1900s and 1930s, are characterized by features such as large front porches, open floor plans, sloped roofs, and an overall timeless charm. These typically one-story residences remain a favored architectural style due to their distinctive appeal and numerous charming details. Architectural historian Christina Dikas highlights beloved elements like built-in shelves and cabinets, original hardwood floors, unique fireplace surrounds, and welcoming front porches as key aspects of bungalows. The enduring popularity of bungalow homes often leads individuals to seek them out, sometimes involving extensive renovation or reimagination to suit modern tastes while preserving their inherent character. Despite the external similarities in shape and quality that define this style, the interiors of bungalows offer a wide spectrum of design possibilities, allowing for personalized and unique expressions. This versatility means that each bungalow, while sharing a common architectural foundation, can be transformed into a distinct living space. The article showcases eleven diverse bungalow homes from various global locations, illustrating the vast potential for creative design within this classic architectural framework. For instance, one example is a Barbiecore-inspired bungalow in England, which was transformed from a damp, mold-ridden space into a vibrant and whimsical retreat by Helen Ainley and her husband. Another instance details Adam Jones's 1930s East Austin bungalow, which underwent a significant DIY renovation with community involvement, resulting in a stunning transformation. Additional examples include a breezy beach bungalow in Malibu owned by Carley and Mike Knobloch, serving as a tranquil weekend escape, and a 600-square-foot Malibu bungalow that celebrates wood paneling, reflecting a blend of Scandinavian design and surfer aesthetics. An Austin, Texas, home is presented as a maximalist's Barbiecore dream, while a Venice, California, bungalow belonging to Jessica Kane and Justin Lehmann combines eclectic and maximalist styles suitable for a growing family. In Australia, a once termite-damaged shack was reimagined into a colorful, retro-infused home by Annie Price and Jamie Paterson, demonstrating a successful renovation. Further featured homes include Kate Richards's California bungalow, rebuilt and designed to accommodate 13 animals in a colorful, farmhouse-inspired setting. Musician Andrew McMahon's California bungalow is highlighted as a quintessential Californian retreat, blending maximalist and modern elements. In Chicago, Amy's bungalow in Irving Park showcases a mid-century modern, transitional design filled with vintage furniture collected from her travels. Finally, Tiffany and Alan Goldstein’s Austin bungalow emphasizes natural light through large windows, creating a bright and inviting gathering space. These examples collectively underscore that a classic architectural style like the bungalow can be adapted and personalized through creativity and thoughtful design, making each home uniquely its own. #BungalowStyleHomes #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalStyle #HouseTours #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #ClassicArchitecture

A new book titled “Design in the Hamptons,” authored by architectural publisher and art critic Anthony Iannacci, challenges the conventional perceptions of Hamptons estates by showcasing 19 private homes designed by prominent New York architects and interior designers. Set to be released on September 9, this publication delves into residences that defy the typical mega-mansion aesthetic, including a small cottage featuring impressive gardens. Iannacci highlights that the selected homes continue a tradition of talented New York designers creating retreats in the Hamptons that offer a contrast to urban life in Manhattan. He describes this new wave of design as a “treasure trove of residential design,” emphasizing its respect for the Hamptons' renowned landscape. The timing of the book is noted as opportune, coinciding with a significant building boom, allowing it to present contemporary design concepts. Iannacci, who grew up visiting his family's beach cottage in Southampton, stresses that there isn't a single approach to how these homes facilitate living. The author observes a cultural evolution in the design, construction, and furnishing of Hamptons homes, marked by a renewed interest in modernist structures that incorporate traditional elements. He suggests that the pursuit of an authentic Hamptons experience is a personal journey for each homeowner. This approach often translates into living room layouts designed for intimate conversations or strategically placed picture windows framing specific natural features, moving away from generic or mass-produced design. Among the featured properties is the cottage belonging to designers Tony Ingrao and Randy Kemper. This home, originally part of the historic Lorenzo and Mary Woodhouse estate, was a carriage house. Upon acquiring the property in 2005, Ingrao and Kemper meticulously recreated the estate's legendary gardens, which had been lost. Despite the cottage's modest size, its expansive and lavish gardens now rival botanical institutions. The designers enhanced the former garage structure with elements like old barn beams and plaster walls, making the garden central to their design vision. They had previously sold a home in Montauk due to its unsuitable conditions for gardening, underscoring their commitment to cultivating the Hamptons property. Their walled-in garden, complete with antique brick walls and a fountain, serves as their primary outdoor living area during the summer, complemented by an adjacent shed used as an outdoor dining room. The pool is also intentionally surrounded by lush plantings to prevent it from dominating the landscape. In stark contrast, the book also features Todd and Lauren Merrill’s modern 1986 home in the Shinnecock Hills of Southampton. Merrill, a designer and antiques dealer, restored the Charles Gwathmey- and Horace Gifford-inspired house to its original, clean lines. He recounted that the house, when purchased two years prior, had been altered with '80s-style decor, including a curved tile backsplash and large murals, which he systematically removed to reveal the underlying architectural integrity. The 9,000-square-foot residence, though structurally sound, had its design diminished by superfluous elements like extra trim and moldings, which Merrill stripped away. Today, the home functions as a “design lab” for Merrill’s collection of mid-century and modern classic furniture, offering ample space and light for displaying his pieces. Architect Russell Groves, currently renovating his own 1970s ranch house in East Hampton, emphasizes the challenge of maintaining simplicity in the often-extravagant Hamptons. For a client’s six-bedroom shingled East Hampton retreat, Groves aimed to maintain the scale reminiscent of 19th-century homes, incorporating modern art and vintage accessories with classic details like wainscoting and wood banisters. Interior designer Suzanne Shaker collaborated with architect Cary Tamarkin on his Shelter Island family residence, constructed from old-growth cypress. The living room features Noguchi Akari pendants and a custom platform sofa, designed to maximize sea views, with clerestory windows operated by customized sailboat cranks. Shaker notes the quieter, less developed nature of Shelter Island compared to the Hamptons, informing their design’s focus on preserving and appreciating nature. Finally, the husband-and-wife design team Robin Standefer and Stephen Alesch of Roman and Williams transformed a 1970s suburban ranch in Montauk into what they call an “unfinished summer camp.” Their approach involved revealing the structure's bones by removing asbestos paneling and sheetrock, exposing wires, conduits, and ducts, and replacing sheetrock with tambour wood. These design choices have influenced their commercial projects, such as the café at Facebook’s headquarters and the Standard High Line hotel. The overall message conveyed by the book is that the ideal Hamptons escape is defined by personal happiness and authenticity, rather than size or adherence to fleeting trends. #HamptonsDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernistHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #GardenDesign #CoastalLiving #DesignBook #NewYorkDesigners

This blog post explores how interior designer Tamara Magel transformed a Hamptons beach house for a young New York couple, moving away from traditional nautical themes to a more modern and sophisticated minimalist aesthetic. The homeowners desired their second home to reflect the contemporary elegance of their Manhattan apartment, leading Magel to implement a design strategy that focuses on a neutral color palette augmented with dramatic, ocean-inspired elements. The transformation demonstrates that a beach house doesn't necessitate conventional seaside decor but can instead embrace a chic, minimalist approach. Magel's design philosophy integrates nature into the interior spaces. For instance, in the living room, a custom soapstone fireplace serves as a focal point, flanked by Apparatus Studio horsehair sconces. The use of Venetian plaster above the fireplace, combined with natural elements like wood stumps and shearling chairs, cultivates an outdoorsy ambiance without resorting to overt beach motifs. This approach balances sleek, contemporary furniture with organic textures, creating a cohesive and inviting space. Contrary to common misconceptions about minimalism, the design incorporates color strategically. The den walls are painted in a blue hue, imparting a warm, seaside atmosphere that is still distinctly contemporary. To further soften the minimalist aesthetic, Magel introduces brown tones through furniture and decor, such as a leather ottoman and Home Nature throws and pillows, adding layers of warmth and texture to the space. The kitchen design exemplifies a harmonious blend of wood and steel. White cabinets and stainless steel appliances maintain a clean, minimalist look, while Circa Lighting pendants above the island complement the modern fixtures. Exposed beams and wood floors introduce an earthy, grounding element, ensuring the space feels integrated and balanced rather than sterile. This combination highlights how contrasting materials can coexist to create a sophisticated and functional area. To infuse the home with a sense of luxury beach living without overdoing the nautical theme, Magel selects a few key beachy statement pieces. Contemporary paintings in blue and white contribute to a coastal feel, making the space casual yet refined and glamorous. An Apparatus Lariat light fixture offers a subtle nod to nautical influences, providing a chic and understated dining ambiance. This demonstrates how art and lighting can be used to evoke a theme subtly and elegantly. Texture plays a crucial role in creating depth and interest within the minimalist framework. Magel emphasizes the importance of incorporating a variety of textures, drawing inspiration from the natural elements of the beach. By pairing diverse materials like wood and knitwear, and integrating larger pieces such as an Elizabeth Dow stump or a pom-pom light fixture with smaller details like Ochre horn handles on custom white oak side tables, the design achieves visual richness without being jarring. This layered approach ensures that the minimalist spaces feel dynamic and inviting, echoing the varied textures found in nature. #MinimalistDecor #HamptonsBeachHouse #InteriorDesign #TamaraMagel #ModernCoastal #NeutralColorScheme #NaturalElements #LuxuryDesign

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly influenced home design, shifting focus towards creating stylish, functional, and comfortable living spaces. This change prioritized personal style over resale value, fostering impressive creativity in home interiors, particularly during the summer months. Houzz recently published its 2025 U.S. Emerging Summer Trends Report, identifying eight key home design trends for the upcoming summer season. These trends emphasize blending creativity with comfort and style with functionality, as explained by Mitchell Parker, a Houzz home design expert. One prominent trend is the adoption of bold and expressive color schemes. Searches for "color drenching," which involves using a single hue across walls, trim, and furniture, have quadrupled compared to last year. Homeowners are increasingly interested in both cool and warm color palettes, with searches for each increasing significantly (three and 2.5 times, respectively). Monochromatic and analogous color schemes, both up two times, indicate a desire for immersive and mood-setting environments. Monochromatic schemes utilize variations of one color, while analogous schemes incorporate three or more adjacent colors on the color wheel. Warm metal accents are another emerging trend, with homeowners incorporating metallic details to add sophistication and modern flair. Searches for copper pendant lighting have surged 3.5 times, gold bathroom vanity lights nearly doubled, and brushed gold bathroom faucets increased almost 1.5 times. Gold lamps are also highly sought after, with searches up 42%, as they introduce warmth and luxury to living areas and bedrooms. The "glam-meets-industrial" look is further enhanced by copper kitchen sinks and range hoods, both seeing over 20% increases in searches. Homeowners are also elevating their entertainment options by creating dedicated beverage stations for summer gatherings. Searches for whiskey bars have nearly doubled, and coffee bars have risen by 19%. Other popular additions include beverage and wine fridges, small wet bars, and stylish beverage bars, each increasing by almost 1.5 times. These additions reflect a desire for convenient, visually appealing drink setups ideal for both social evenings and quiet mornings. Beyond beverage stations, there is a growing interest in "fun zones" within the home. These spaces are designed for relaxation, creativity, and play. Searches for putting greens have almost doubled, while Lego rooms, billiard rooms, and video game rooms have increased by nearly 1.5 times. Poker tables are up 77%, and game tables are up 20%, highlighting a desire for dedicated areas for unwinding and creating lasting memories at home. Wood-drenched spaces, featuring natural materials, are also gaining popularity due to their calming and grounding effects. Searches for living rooms with light hardwood floors have increased fivefold. Wood-paneled offices and woven wood shades have seen nearly 1.5 times more searches. White oak storage solutions, particularly for kitchen cabinets (up 46%) and bathroom vanities (up 20%), are also trending. French country style is experiencing a resurgence, with searches for French country bathrooms increasing by 54% and French country chandeliers quadrupling. This romantic and timeless aesthetic is appealing for its airy elegance and cottage-core charm. Floral wallpaper searches have nearly doubled, and modern French country kitchens are up 45%, demonstrating a blend of vintage elegance and relaxed comfort that offers a tranquil and transportive atmosphere. Lastly, low-water landscaping is a significant summer home design trend driven by water conservation efforts. Searches for succulent gardens have tripled year-over-year. Mediterranean gardens and landscapes are also gaining popularity, with searches almost doubling. Decomposed granite landscapes have seen a 37% increase, reflecting a preference for sustainable outdoor design choices that are functional and suitable for summer, when water usage typically increases. Additionally, vintage style continues to surge, with increased searches for vintage bathroom vanities, China cabinets, hutches, living rooms, and kitchens. This trend is driven by a desire for character, charm, and authenticity, and may also serve as an alternative to tariff-related pricing and supply chain challenges. #HomeDesignTrends #SummerTrends #InteriorDecorating #OutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign #VintageStyle #ColorSchemes #MetalAccents #WoodElements

James Nicholas Custom Home Builders, a custom home builder and general contractor based in Westhampton Beach, specializes in high-end luxury homes across the Hamptons. Owner James Aracri, a long-time resident of Westhampton Beach, emphasizes a collaborative approach with clients and architects, ensuring that the design vision is brought to reality, with flexibility for design changes throughout the project. The company is known for constructing opulent residences in prime Hamptons locations. One of the company's notable ongoing projects is a 5,000-square-foot, oceanfront home at 161 Dune Road in Westhampton Beach, designed by architect Bruce Nagel. This property features a three-story spiral staircase, curved glass walls, and offers panoramic 360-degree views of both the bay and the ocean, showcasing a design that complements its unique location. James Nicholas Custom Home Builders recently completed the Three Ducks Hotel, a boutique hotel in Westhampton Beach, and has also finished other luxury homes in the East End, including properties in Remsenburg (51 Tuthill Lane and 18 Cricket Path) and Bridgehampton (1223 Ocean Road). The company offers a design-build option through BN+G (BN-G.com), a partnership formed by Aracri with architect Bruce Nagel and Michael Murphy, who brings over 30 years of design-build expertise. This integrated approach allows clients to work with the builder from the initial design phase, streamlining the construction process. James Nicholas Custom Home Builders has seen significant activity during the recent Hamptons construction boom, driven by an influx of new homeowners. Aracri notes that supply chain issues, such as those for appliances and materials, have improved significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to better project timelines. Aracri, whose family has a history in construction on Long Island, has been involved in home building for most of his life, with the last 25 years focused on high-end luxury homes in the Hamptons. These homes typically range from 5,000 to 20,000 square feet and are often built for secondary homeowners, many from New York City. Aracri ensures operational control of subcontractors to maintain quality craftsmanship and provides financial transparency to clients through a cost-plus basis, allowing homeowners to see all invoices and costs. This transparency is particularly valued by his clientele, many of whom come from the finance industry. James Nicholas Custom Home Builders integrates quality and innovation into its projects, utilizing new technologies and materials that support design aesthetics and offer extended warranties of up to 50 years. Homes often feature advanced audio-visual media rooms and smart home systems like Lutron, allowing homeowners to control lighting and other functions remotely via their phones. The firm maintains relationships with high-end manufacturers and vendors globally and considers environmental factors such as proximity to water and compliance with Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) regulations. Special features frequently incorporated include elaborate pool designs with waterfalls, spas, and lighting controls, as well as comprehensive landscape architecture and hardscaping. The company also installs 24-hour cameras accessible to homeowners, especially beneficial for those building secondary residences. Aracri remains personally involved in projects, emphasizing the personal investment clients make in their Hamptons homes, which he views as investments in lifestyle and memories. #HamptonsRealEstate #LuxuryHomes #CustomHomeBuilders #WesthamptonBeach #EastEndConstruction #ArchitecturalDesign #SmartHomeTechnology #CoastalLiving #JamesNicholasBuilders