So you’ve created the perfect Hamptons-style interior, and now you feel the outside doesn’t match. You’re not alone! Many of us put all our focus on perfecting the inside of our home and forget the outside until much later, when time, energy and budget are often running low.

The good news? You don’t need a full renovation to bring that same coastal charm outside. With a few simple, budget-friendly updates, your home’s exterior can reflect the same Hampton style as the inside.

Start by Giving Your Front Garden Some Love

The front garden is where first impressions are made, so make yours spectacular. A classic Hamptons garden is all about balance, elegance and a touch of coastal charm. Think neat, symmetrical and lush – not chaotic or overgrown.

Start with the basics: a well-maintained lawn. Keep it neatly mowed and consider installing lawn edging to create clean lines and prevent grass from creeping into your garden beds. This simple fix will instantly make your yard look more polished.

When it comes to flowers, go for timeless favourites that match the Hamptons palette. Hydrangeas in soft whites, purples and blues are a stunning pop of colour and capture that breezy, seaside feel. Add some fragrant gardenias for beauty and scent. And don’t forget hedging. Whether it’s boxwood or viburnum, a tidy green hedge offers privacy while framing your entrance in classic, elegant style.

Replace Your Letterbox

A metal letterbox in a bright colour has nothing to do with the soft, classic charm of the Hamptons style. So if you have one of those sitting out the front of your home, it might be time for an upgrade. A white parcel letterbox with timber detailing is a great example of how a Hampton style letterbox should look. It blends in with the whole aesthetic – crisp whites, natural textures and understated elegance – while also meeting the demands of modern living.

Unlike a standard letterbox, which can only hold envelopes or small packages, a parcel letterbox is designed to receive larger deliveries. It has a lockable compartment so couriers can leave parcels safely even when you’re not home, perfect for the growing trend of online shopping. So if you have a busy household, it could be both a stylish and practical solution. 

What makes these letterboxes perfect for coastal homes is their simple design and neutral colours. These qualities match the breezy, laid-back feel of a Hamptons exterior. Finishes like matte white with timber detailing go hand in hand with the natural elements used in this style of architecture.

When shopping for a Hamptons-style letterbox, make sure to consider the materials and features. Choose one that’s weather-resistant, preferably powder-coated for durability and big enough to fit the types of parcels you receive. A lockable compartment is a must for security and peace of mind.

And don’t forget – the Hamptons look is all about the details. Add classic house numbers in a serif font, or a small name plaque to your letterbox. These little things not only reflect your style but also lift your home’s street appeal.

Large-Format Stepping Stones for a Side Path

The side path might not be the first thing you think of when updating your exterior. But in a family home, it’s a must-have. Whether it’s the path to the backyard, the bin area or a side entrance, this feature deserves some design love too.

Swap out the concrete or pebble paths for large-format stepping stones in a square or rectangular shape. These create a clean, structured look that complements the coastal charm of a Hamptons-style home.

For the finishing touches, layer pine bark between the pavers and add some greenery. This softens the space, adds texture, colour and a natural flow that connects beautifully with the rest of your garden.

Window Mouldings for Visual Interest

Window mouldings are simple architectural details that add depth, character and that Hamptons magic to your exterior.

In the Hamptons style, window moulding is clean, crisp and often painted white to contrast beautifully with weatherboard or neutral-tone exteriors. They frame the windows like a picture, drawing the eye and making your home look more refined.

White Planters for Framing Entrances

Few things say “Hamptons elegance” like a pair of white planters on either side of your front door or entryway. This simple styling trick adds symmetry, charm and a touch of grandeur – just like the Hamptons style.

Choose tall, white planters with a clean finish to brighten the space and create formality. If you’re a busy person or not a great gardener, self-watering planters are a game-changer. They keep your plants healthy with minimal effort, especially during hot Australian summers when consistent watering can be a challenge. 

As for what to plant, go for statement blooms and climbing varieties that mimic the lushness of a Hamptons garden. Magnolias have sculptural beauty and glossy green foliage, and varieties like Little Gem grow well in many Australian climates. Star jasmine is another winner; it’s hardy, evergreen and bursts with white flowers in warmer months. If you want something a bit more whimsical, wisteria can drape beautifully over nearby trellises or porch rails, adding soft purple blooms and romance, especially in cooler areas.

Wicker or Rattan Chairs for Your Porch

A Hamptons-style home isn’t just about how it looks – it’s also about how it feels. And nothing captures that relaxed, coastal vibe like a welcoming front porch. To complete the look, add a pair of chairs made from natural materials like wicker or rattan.

These textures are a hallmark of Hamptons style and bring warmth and laid-back elegance to your exterior. For comfort and cohesion, add cushions in soft coastal colours. Think whites, navy stripes or pale blues. To complete the look, lay down an outdoor rug in a neutral tone or classic stripe to ground the space and add softness underfoot. A small side table in timber or whitewashed finish is also a great addition, perfect for resting a drink, a book or a potted plant.