Dressed in Style by the Best of the Best

The 2012 Hampton Designer Showhouse is set in a cozy, traditional cedar shingle style home built by Grande Design Residential Inc. At 80 Flying Point Road in Watermill, the location is easy to find just off of route 27. The opening gala came off without a hitch this year on a particularly sunny afternoon. In its 12th year, the showhouse is presented by Traditional Home magazine, and proceeds have benefited the Southampton Hospital for the past 10 years. During a press preview on the opening gala, I took my time meandering from room to room and had the opportunity to meet with many of the designers to hear about their inspirations. I am particularly fond of this year’s home, which has been appointed with intimate spaces and a well thought out floor plan.

There are many highlights this year, but one of my favorite rooms is a tricked out nursery designed by California interior designer Tamara Kaye-Honey. The walls are covered in a moody black and red pattern not typical of a baby nursery, but the interesting way in which Kaye-Honey puts it altogether feels right. Her mix of vintage designs with modern looking furnishings and rich fabrics works well in the space. She uses vintage fabrics, the curtains are from Lulu DK’s new line of fabric for Schumacher and she also picked up some accessories at local antique shops. Kaye-Honey painted the ceiling in an aubergine Pratt & Lambert paint color in a shiny oil finish.

Lillian August does a stellar job each year designing the living room, and this year is no exception. The living room overlooks the pool and patio in a sun-lit space with views of much of the downstairs area. The Lillian August team brought in a combination of antiques and modern furnishings, Scalamandre fabrics and fabulous art, and put it together in a neutral grey palette.

Another well designed space is a small guest room created by Alabama designer Tammy Connor. She outfitted the bedroom with Serena and Lilly fabrics and two quaint camp-like twin beds. I am also particularly fond of the guest suite bedroom by furniture manufacturer Pearson. Jennifer McConnell of Pearson did a great job of showcasing their fabrics and furniture, creating a sophisticated, colorful getaway for guests while overlooking the pool and garden. I enjoy the punchy colors of the guest bedroom and the indigo and red fabrics from their collection work well together.

Another space that compliments the East End lifestyle well is the equestrian-infused sitting room just off the front entrance designed by horse lover and rider Patrick Lonn. For the equestrians in the bunch, check out the brand-new Hermes light-as-a-feather black saddle featured in his space. His hand stenciled ceiling designed in an all equestrian motif is divine.

There is something for everyone at this year’s show, and to me one of the best highlights of the house is how well the rooms flow together. In the downstairs spaces, there seems to be a cohesive color scheme of neutrals, various blues and greys that compliment the sunny rooms well. While chatting with many of the designers, there seems to be an emphasis on shopping locally for products, accessories and art. I was impressed with the beautiful art collections displayed. The two oversized swans floating in the pool add a bit of whimsy and fun.

Stop in daily from 11am to 5 pm Monday through Sunday until Labor Day (September 3). Admission is $30 which includes a detailed journal with sources. Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance at http://hamptondesignershowhouse.com. There are no strollers, children under 6 or pets admitted.