7 Must-Have Features In A Hamptons Style Kitchen

Kitchen

7 May

A Hamptons style kitchen is more than just a look; it’s a statement of elegance, warmth, and refined design... and the best thing? Hamptons Kitchens are always on trend because they embrace traditional and iconic features — like shaker or paneled cabinets, soft neutral palettes, contrasting hardware, and classic materials and finishes.

A Hamptons kitchen is a standout choice for homes because it balances a luxurious and inviting feel and as you’ll see by the examples below, can embrace a range of colours and features. Think finishes like polished nickel hardware, timber flooring, glass and metal pendant lights, and classic bar stools in rattan or linen. A Hamptons kitchen embodies both sophistication and functionality, making it ideal for creating a kitchen with design longevity.

Whether you’re dreaming of a full Hamptons-style transformation or simply want to bring a touch of its understated charm to your kitchen, incorporating key design features in your design is essential to nail the look. Here’s how to achieve that signature Hamptons kitchen style, right down to the kitchen sink...

Large white and timber Hamptons Style kitchen with high ceilings and large marble island bench with black and white pendant lights — Vivir Design • Hamptons Kitchen

white hamptons style kitchen with white brick tile splashback and white and timber rattan pendants and bar stools — PInterest • Hamptons Style Kitchen

Hamptons Colour Scheme

Think: soft, neutral, calming and pared back colours. This perfectly entails everything a modern Hamptons colour palette should be.

Add to this abundant natural light — it’s key, especially if using darker colours in your design, and you’re on your way to achieving the light, spacious aesthetic that Hamptons homes are renowned for.

Whites and Soft Greys: Pure whites, soft greys, pale blues and gentle earth tones set the foundation for a Hamptons kitchen. These colours create a serene and inviting atmosphere, allowing classic elements like shaker cabinets and stone surfaces to shine.
Layered Shades: Layering different shades of white and grey enhances depth and interest in your design. Add timber accents, to achieve balance and a cohesive look to your kitchen design, without overpowering it.
Bold Colour: You can include dark or bold colours in your Hamptons kitchens successfully by opting for muted colours and neutrals. Opt for darker shades of grey, blue or black to create a standout statement, and remember to ensure your kitchen has plenty of natural light so it maintains the relaxed and inviting Hamptons aesthetic.

Hamptons Home Design Made Easy - Plans, Cabinetry, Colours + Products Pack

black v-groove shaker cabinets and arched glass cabinets in hamptons style with brass cabinet handles — Pinterest • Black Hamptons Kitchen

white hamptons shaker cabinet kitchen with dark grey island bench — The Kitchen Maker • Hampton Colour Palette

2. Shaker Cabinets Styles

Nothing says Hamptons Style Kitchen quite like Paneled, V-Groove or Shaker cabinets. They are seriously signature, iconic Hamptons style, adding subtle pattern to your kitchen design, with timeless appeal.

Simple and Elegant: Shaker-style cabinets have recessed panels and a raised border — which can be ordered in a range of thicknesses from wide (more Traditional Hamptons) to narrow (think: Modern Hamptons). This adds a touch of sophistication and a traditional element, without overpowering the kitchen. For a traditional Hamptons look, opt for predominantly classic white or light grey cabinets, which amplify the kitchen’s airy feel.
Glass Fronts for Display: Add glass-fronts to your shaker cabinets to show off elegant dishware or glassware, a subtle touch that reinforces the Hamptons aesthetic.

Arched kitchen cabinets design with light blue paneled shaker cabinets and light oak herringbone flooring for hamptons style kitchen — Pinterest • Hamptons Cabinets

Interior Designed Kitchens for $79. #werenotevenjoking

3. Benchtops and Surfaces:

Benchtops in a Hamptons kitchen bring a sense of luxury without compromising on practicality. Marble, quartz, or other natural stones are the go-to choice for their timeless beauty and durability, or a marble-look Porcelain or Composite bench tops if you’re after less on-going maintenance.

Marble or Marble-Look Benchtops: The key to achieving the signature Hamptons look is to choose a white a light bench top, with a beautiful veining pattern. True marble or quartz options with delicate veining work beautifully in a Hamptons kitchen, adding elegance and a light-reflective quality.
Honed Finishes: Choose a honed or matte finish to reduce glare and give a more understated look, perfect for maintaining the effortless feel of Hamptons style.

hamptons kitchen design with grey marble splashback and benchtops and white shaker cabinets and brass taps — Zephyr and Stone • **Hamptons Kitchen** Style

Your Hamptons Kitchen Design Style Guide

4. Butlers Sink

To achieve that quintessential Hamptons style kitchen, a white Butlers sink is a must. Also known as a Farmhouse sink, this traditional feature is both practical and decorative — and instantly elevates the space.

Butler sinks are typically made from fine fireclay — a highly durable ceramic material that’s resistant to heat, stains, and scratches — though they’re also available in porcelain or composite finishes. Their classic design suits the Hamptons aesthetic perfectly, bringing a sense of timeless charm to your kitchen.

These Hamptons kitchen sinks are usually undermounted or partially overlapped by the stone bench top on the sides and back, with the decorative front face on display. Often, they’re installed so the sink protrudes slightly past the benchtop, becoming a hero feature in the design. Sink designs can include a ribbed front panel, adding soft texture and detail to an otherwise clean, neutral palette.

kitchen with traditional black framed tall window and timber shaker cabinets and tall ceilings showing view from butlers sink position — Lauren Ashley Allan • Butlers Sink

white hamptons style kitchen with white farmhouse sink — Pinterest • Farmhouse Sink

5. Taps, Handles and Hardware

The tapware, handles and hardware you choose play a key role in refining the Hamptons kitchen aesthetic. These details might be small, but they make a big impact — and should feel considered, decorative and timeless.

Hamptons kitchen handles are typically classic in style — think cup pulls, round knobs, or simple linear handles with a traditional profile. These can be paired with bridge or gooseneck-style taps to create a cohesive look that complements your cabinetry and elevates the overall design.

When it comes to finish options, there are three standout choices in a Hamptons style kitchen:

Polished Nickel – A refined, timeless option that adds softness and warmth without being overly bright. Pairs beautifully with white or off-white cabinetry.
Brass – For warmth and vintage charm, brushed or aged brass offers a rich, classic contrast to a neutral palette. It’s perfect for creating a statement.
Matte Black – Adds a modern edge to Hamptons kitchens while still feeling grounded. Works well with darker cabinetry or to provide contrast in an all-white scheme.

Z+S Pro Tip: Choose one finish and carry it through both your tapware and cabinetry hardware for a polished, intentional feel.

And most importantly — invest in quality. Tapware and handles are used every day and directly affect how your kitchen functions and feels. High-quality kitchen hardware doesn’t just elevate your design — it improves the overall usability and ensures your space stands the test of time.

Allison Elebash Interior Design • Hamptons Style Handles

6. Island Bench And Bar Stools

The island bench is the heart of any Hamptons style kitchen — a hub for cooking, entertaining and casual dining. It’s also one of the best places to introduce warmth, contrast and refined detail into your design.

Start with the island itself. A Hamptons kitchen island often features shaker cabinetry, turned posts or V-groove panelling for texture and elegance. Finished in crisp white, soft grey or a contrasting navy, the island becomes a standout feature that’s as functional as it is beautiful. Include a 30cm benchtop overhang to the back for bar stool seating — to create the perfect breakfast bar for informal meals and morning coffees.

When choosing Hamptons style bar stools, look for comfort, natural materials and timeless shapes. The best stools blend seamlessly with the cabinetry while adding softness and character.

What to look for:

Light timber or painted finishes to complement your palette
Linen or rattan seats for subtle texture
High backs with cross-back, spindle or upholstered detail for support
Refined touches like piping, panelling or timber accents

Z+S Pro Tip: How long should you make your island bench? You’ll need 60–70cm per person for comfortable spacing.

Together, a thoughtfully designed island and the right bar stools create a space that’s not only practical — but looks and feels like a true Hamptons kitchen.

long island bench in large hamptons style kitchen with white and timber cabinets and large brass pendant lights over island bench — Pinterest • Hamptons Island Bench Ideas

modern white hamptons kitchen with marble benchtop and splashback and rattan bar stools and brass lighting and hardware — Zephyr and Stone • Rattan bar stools

7. Lighting That Reflects Classic Hamptons Elegance

Lighting in a Hamptons kitchen should feel refined, timeless and considered — somewhat decorative, but definitely intentional.

Think kitchen lighting in classic shapes, polished finishes, and warm light tones. Glass fixtures with polished nickel or chrome detailing are a staple, adding understated elegance that complements shaker cabinetry and neutral tones.

For a more relaxed coastal feel, rattan or woven textures can add warmth and softness, especially when paired with natural materials like timber or stone.

Subtle, low-profile LED strip lighting under cabinets is perfect for adding functional task lighting without visual clutter — and helps highlight beautiful benchtop materials or splashback tiles.

Z+S Pro Tip: Always choose warm white light (2700–3000K) for a welcoming feel that’s true to Hamptons style — and avoid anything too cool or clinical.