The Best Paint Colours for a Hamptons-Inspired Home

Channing • February 5, 2025

Paint Colours That Suit A Hamptons Inspired Home

Finding the right paint colours can turn your home into a coastal retreat. The best colours for a Hamptons-inspired home bring light and warmth. They make any room feel relaxed and elegant.

The Hamptons style is now famous worldwide. Choosing the right colours is key. Hamptons homes use soft blues, greens, and greys. These colours create a light and welcoming feel. They make your home feel both sophisticated and laid-back.


The colours come from the environment you see in the Hamptons. Ocean blues and greys, sand and natural tones and even greens from the grasses that line the beaches. If you’ve ever been to the Hamptons (and I highly recommend it), you can instantly see where the colour palate came from.

Whether you want a full home makeover or just a room update, the right colours matter. I’ll help you pick the perfect hues for your Hamptons-inspired space. These colours bring a sense of calm and coastal beauty. Get ready to make your home feel like a Hamptons retreat with these chosen colours.

Understanding Hamptons Style and Its Colour Palette

The Hamptons style is more than a design—it’s a lifestyle. It’s inspired by the luxurious homes of Long Island’s South Fork. This style brings seaside elegance with its unique colour palettes and design elements.

Defining Hamptons Style

Hamptons style mixes coastal charm with sophistication. On the exterior of your home it uses timber construction materials, pitched roofs, larger trim sizes and typically keeps with complimentary colours. IE: You don’t see light grey walls and olive trims. The colour palate typically stays within its own range and is often the same colour in strengthened or weakened versions. Hamptons colour palettes connect us to the ocean and nature. Key features include:

  • Light and airy interiors
  • Soft, neutral colour schemes
  • Natural textures and materials
  • Abundant natural lighting

Key Design Elements

The trendy Hampton style wall colours reflect coastal calm. My favourites are:

  1. Whites and creams as foundational colors
  2. Soft blues like ocean waves
  3. Muted greens for coastal plants
  4. Neutral greys for depth

Creating a Coastal Atmosphere

Colour is key in Hamptons design. The right colours can make a space feel like a beachside retreat. Designers use different blues, greys or whites to create a welcoming space.

Choosing colours that reflect coastal beauty can bring Hamptons style to your home. It makes your space feel sophisticated yet relaxed.

Paint colours suitable for a Hamptons style home
Paint colours suitable for a Hamptons style home

Popular Hamptons Paint Colours to Consider

Creating a Hamptons-inspired home starts with choosing the right colours. As someone who loves home design, I’ve found that certain paint shades are synonymous with specific décor and construction styles. The right colours create a calm, elegant feel that brings the coast to your living space.

Let’s look at the top Hamptons style interior paint colours that can make your home look amazing:

Soft Neutrals for Tranquillity

Neutral colors are key in Hamptons design. Here are some soothing shades to consider:

  • Greige – a mix of grey and beige
  • Warm sandy beiges
  • Soft cream tones

Crisp Whites for Timeless Elegance

White is a core colour in the Hamptons palette. Here are some whites to check out, however please remember that to put it simply, whites are either blue based or yellow based. I know that sounds scary but once you see an entire sheet of whites you will instantly know what I’m talking about. Blue based whites (super crisp, ultra whites) go with other blue based tones. IE: Greys, ultralight blues etc.

Yellow based whites lean toward the cream in the extreme. They can still be very light and amazing colours but putting a yellow based white with grey trim is putting to different tonal points together. It can work, but typically you wouldn’t mix a grey base and a yellow base together. The only exception where it works well is if you lean quite heavily into the cream as the main colour and then trim it with ice white.

  • Dulux Natural White – a much softer white but still clearly white
  • Wattyl Wicker White – a more cream based white. (Wattyl’s website is tricky to find exact colours without it being in a pop up. You have to keep loading more until you get to the end and then search for “wicker” to find this colour. Someone should tell them how frustrating this is!)
  • Dulux Lexicon Half – a white that will take on its surrounds. IE: Timber floors will make it look whiter, but grey tile will make it appear darker.

Seaside Blues for Coastal Charm

Blues bring the feel of the coast to your home. Here are some beautiful blues to consider:

  • Soft duck-egg blue
  • Dulux Pacific Line (rich navy with indigo touch)
  • Muted coastal blues

Warm Greys for Sophisticated Depth

Grey tones add a touch of sophistication to your Hamptons-inspired space:

  • Dulux Tranquil Retreat
  • Vanilla Quake
  • Wattyl Snowdonia

“Colour is a powerful tool in creating the perfect Hamptons atmosphere – it’s about evoking a sense of relaxed coastal luxury.”

Pro tip: Always test paint colours using A4 paint cards and put them in the space and with other major materials you will be using. Get a sample of your flooring, find a place where the light is similar and compare your paint swatches in this environment. This helps you find the perfect shade for your space.

How to Choose the Right Shade for Your Space

Choosing the right Hamptons-inspired paint color is important. The right shade can make your home look serene and coastal. It captures the timeless beauty of this design style.

When picking the best Hampton style paint colors, several factors are key. Let’s go through the steps to find your perfect color.

Assessing Natural Light in Your Home

Natural light affects how paint colors look in your home. Rooms get different amounts of sunlight. This changes how colors appear.

  • West-facing rooms get warm afternoon light
  • North-facing spaces have consistent, bright light
  • South-facing rooms have cooler, softer light

Understanding Room Functionality

Each room’s purpose affects your color choice. Think about the mood you want to create:

Room Type Recommended Color Approach
Living Areas Soft neutrals like Casper White Half
Bedrooms Calming blues or warm greys
Home Office Crisp whites with subtle undertones

Sample Testing: Your Colour Confirmation Strategy

Always buy sample pots of your chosen colors. Paint small sections and watch how they look all day. Natural light shows the true color.

Pro tip: Large paint swatches help you see the final result in your space.

Remember, finding the perfect Hamptons-inspired colour is about creating a harmonious, light-filled space. It should reflect your personal style.

Hamptons style home using the traditional colour palate of light grey and white.
Hamptons style home exterior using the traditional colour palette of light grey and white.

Coastal Colours That Evoke Relaxation

Creating a serene Hamptons-inspired space starts with the right colour palette. The magic of trendy Hamptons style wall colours is in their ability to capture coastal living’s essence. Soft, soothing hues can instantly take you to a peaceful seaside sanctuary.

Blues Inspired by the Ocean

Ocean-inspired blues are at the heart of Hamptons colour schemes. These colours range from:

  • Sky blue – light and airy
  • Duck egg blue – subtle and sophisticated
  • Stone blue – elegant and understated

“Blue is the color of calm, reminiscent of endless ocean horizons.” – Coastal Design Expert

Greens That Reflect Nature

Nature-inspired greens add an organic touch to your space. Consider these shades:

  • Sea green – tranquil and refreshing
  • Sage green – earthy and sophisticated
  • Soft mint – light and rejuvenating

Earthy Tones for a Grounded Feel

Earthy tones bring warmth and depth to Hamptons-style interiors. Recommended colors include:

  • Sandy beige
  • Warm taupe
  • Soft stone grey

By carefully selecting these colors, you’ll create a harmonious and relaxing Hamptons-inspired environment. It will feel both elegant and comfortable.

Accent Colors for a Hamptons Touch

Creating a stunning Hamptons-style interior is more than just picking paint shades. It’s about adding accent colors and textures that bring your space to life.

To transform a room or a home into a Hamptons-inspired space, you need a plan. This includes choosing the right accents and design elements.

Contrasting with Bold Accents

Bold accents can really make your Hamptons-inspired home pop. Here are some tips:

  • Use navy blue throw pillows against crisp white sofas
  • Introduce deep indigo artwork on neutral walls
  • Create visual interest with rich marine-inspired colour pops
  • Use a light colour en masse with smaller trims in a bold contrast (check out the pic below for a great black and white Hamptons inspired exterior colour scheme)

Subtle Textures to Enhance Appeal

Texture adds depth to your color palette. Try these ideas:

  • Layer cream and navy striped cushions
  • Use velvet accents in ocean-inspired hues
  • Incorporate natural materials like driftwood and seashells

The Impact of Trim and Molding Colors

Trim and molding can change a room’s look when chosen wisely:

Color Impact Best Used In
Resene Black White Classic, crisp definition Living rooms, hallways
Resene Sea Fog Soft, subtle framing Bedrooms, study areas
Resene Regent Grey Sophisticated contrast Formal dining spaces

“The right accent can transform a room from ordinary to extraordinary.”

By picking and using accent colours wisely, you’ll make your space feel both classy and welcoming.

A Hamptons inspired home designed with bright white and small black trims
A Hamptons inspired home designed with bright white and small black trims

Creating a Cohesive Colour Scheme

Designing a harmonious colour palette is key to creating the perfect Hamptons-inspired home. The right colours turn your space into a serene coastal retreat. It feels both elegant and inviting.

When picking colours, I suggest the 60:30:10 rule. This rule helps create a balanced and appealing design:

  • 60% dominant colour (usually soft neutrals)
  • 30% secondary colour (a shade that complements the dominant)
  • 10% accent colour (a bold or contrasting shade)

Techniques for Harmonizing Colours

To make rooms flow, choose colours wisely. Whites with warm undertones can create a cohesive look. They enhance natural light and coastal charm.

Using a Colour Wheel for Guidance

Colour Relationship Effect
Complementary Colours Create dramatic contrast
Analogous Colours Provide smooth, harmonious transitions
Monochromatic Palette Offer elegant, subtle variations

The Importance of Flow Between Rooms

Keeping visual continuity is crucial. Use a consistent neutral base with slight color changes for a seamless transition.

“The secret to a beautiful Hamptons-inspired interior is creating a sense of effortless elegance through carefully chosen colors.”

Trends in Hamptons Color Schemes

The Hamptons design is changing, mixing old charm with new styles. I’ve seen big changes in color trends that show both tradition and new ideas.

Contemporary Takes on Classic Colors

Modern Hamptons style is updating old color schemes with new twists. Designers are moving away from just blue and white. They’re using trendy colors that still feel like the coast.

  • Soft neutral tones replacing stark whites
  • Muted blue-grey palettes
  • Earthy undertones with coastal influences

Nature-Inspired Hues

Nature is a big influence in Hamptons design now. Oceanic blues, sandy creams, and soft greens are popular. They show a love for the coast.

Color Category Trending Shades
Blues Resene Duck Egg Blue, Dulux Pacific Line
Neutrals Resene Sea Fog, Dulux Natural White
Greens Soft sage, muted seafoam

Integration of Sustainable Paint Options

People are choosing eco-friendly paints that fit the Hamptons look. Low-VOC paints in natural colours are popular for green interiors.

“The future of Hamptons design is about harmonizing timeless style with environmental responsibility.”

By following these color trends, you can make a Hamptons-style space that’s both modern and classic.

A Hamptons styled living room with soft blue tones and contrasting blue accents.
A traditionally styled Hamptons living space with ice blue walls and bright white trim.

Tips for Updating Your Space with Paint

Updating your home with Hampton style paint shades doesn’t have to be expensive. I’ll share tips for refreshing your living spaces with coastal elegance. These colors are sought-after for a reason.

Freshening Up a Room on a Budget

Painting is a budget-friendly way to change your home’s look. Here are some cost-effective tips:

  • Focus on an accent wall to create visual interest
  • Update trim colors for a crisp, clean look
  • Choose multipurpose paint that offers durability and style

DIY Painting Essentials

Painting yourself requires careful preparation. Here are my top tips for a professional-looking finish:

  1. Invest in quality brushes and rollers
  2. Properly prepare surfaces by cleaning and priming
  3. Use painter’s tape for clean edges
  4. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick layer

“The right preparation makes all the difference in achieving a stunning paint result.”

Hiring Professionals vs. DIY

Sometimes, hiring professionals is the better choice. Think about your skill level, time, and project size. Professionals can give you a flawless finish with Hampton style colors, even for tricky spaces or big rooms.

Pro tip: Get multiple quotes and check references before hiring a painting contractor. This ensures you’re getting the best value for your money.

Resources for Finding the Best Paint Colors

Looking for the best Hampton style paint colours ? I’ve found amazing resources to help. Brands like Resene offer stunning ranges that bring coastal elegance to your home. White on White™and Lexicon® Quarter are top picks for Hamptons style.

Professional color consultation services are a must for coastal design. Benjamin Moore and Dulux offer expert advice. They know how shades like Resene Sea Fog or Azure can make your home look amazing.

Digital tools have changed how we pick paint colors. Online platforms let you see colors in your room before buying. Sites like Sherwin-Williams and Resene have tools to try out different colors.

Recommended Paint Brands for Quality

For quality, go with Resene, Benjamin Moore, and Dulux. They have a wide range of colors and high quality. These brands get the Hamptons look right, with colors that feel like the coast.

Color Consultation Services

Color consultants offer personalized advice for your space. They pick the perfect shade for your home’s light and design. This ensures your Hamptons-inspired design looks stunning.

Online Tools for Visualizing Colors

Today’s tech makes picking colours easy. Interactive platforms let you try colours in your room. This way, you can pick the right colours for your Hamptons-style home without trial and error.

Conclusion: Best Paint Colours For Hamptons Style Home

While colour is very important in this style of décor, you do have to be aware that changing the paint colours of your home or rooms won’t be enough to say “Hamptons”. This style is heavily reliant on a particular build style and construction materials . If you have a Besser block home with a terracotta tile roof, changing it to look Hamptons in style would be a significant investment. Inside its easier, however you need to consider paint colour as a basis for your style,. Its a starting point, and then your furnishings, décor items, lighting and floor coverings can be sought to reflect the style.

Hamptons style living room in greens and white.
Hamptons style living room in greens and white.

FAQ

What exactly is Hamptons style, and how does it relate to paint colors?

Hamptons style is a design that looks like the fancy beach homes of Long Island. It uses light colors that remind you of the sea. You’ll see soft whites, crisp whites, and blues that make a room feel both calm and fancy.

What are the most popular paint colors for a Hamptons-style home?

Popular colors include soft whites like Benjamin Moore’s White on White. You’ll also see light blues, warm greys, and neutral tones. These colors make a room feel bright and open, just like the coast.

How do I choose the right paint color for my Hamptons-inspired space?

Think about the room’s light, its use, and test colors first. Use big swatches and watch how light changes the color’s look. This helps you pick the best color.

Can I incorporate accent colors in a Hamptons-style design?

Yes! Even though Hamptons style is mostly neutral, you can add colors from nature. Try soft blues, muted greens, and warm earth tones. They add a nice touch to the main white and neutral colors.

What paint brands are best for achieving a Hamptons look?

Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, and Dulux are great for Hamptons interiors. Look for their soft whites, light blues, and neutral tones. They capture the Hamptons’ coastal elegance well.

How can I make my Hamptons-style paint colors feel cohesive throughout my home?

Use the same color palette in all rooms. Choose colors with similar undertones. Use the color wheel to find matching shades. Stick to a few colors, like whites, neutrals, and soft blues, for a smooth look.

Are there any current trends in Hamptons-style paint colors?

Yes, trends include nature-inspired greens and sustainable paints. Designers are also using warmer tones and diverse colors. But they still keep the light and airy feel of classic Hamptons.

What paint finish works best for a Hamptons-style home?

Eggshell or satin finishes are best for a Hamptons look. They have a soft sheen that looks great and hides small flaws. This finish captures the Hamptons’ refined yet relaxed vibe.

Can I achieve a Hamptons look on a budget?

Yes! Focus on key areas like accent walls and update trim colors. Choose quality paint for better coverage and longevity. Painting yourself can also save money and update your space.

How do I test paint colors before committing to a full room?

Buy large paint samples or pots. Paint big swatches on your walls. Watch how light changes the color’s look. Live with the samples for a few days before deciding.

Channing: The owner and driving force behind Platypus And Pine

About The Author


I'm Channing and I am the driving force behind Platypus and Pine. I've had over 30 years of experience in designing, renovating and customising Australian homes.


I've used everything from aluminium to velvet as decor choices and love a wide variety of styles and themes.


My absolute favourite is Mid Century Modern and I was fortunate enough to spend 2 weeks in Palm Springs for Modernism week just last year.