How To Nail A Hamptons Kitchen On A Budget

Dreaming of a Hamptons style kitchen? Aren’t we all?! There’s so much to love about this enduring interior design trend that marries a sophisticated, coastal ambience with crisp finishes, elegant fixtures and timeless kitchen appliances. But, just because sophistication is key in a Hamptons kitchen, it doesn’t mean you have to spend big to nail the vibe.

We consulted Sydney-based interior designer Becc Burgmann to bring you the best budget-friendly kitchen renovation ideas to get the look for less. With advice on the must-have fridge, oven and small appliances, plus DIY style updates, here’s your guide to realising your kitchen renovation dream on a budget – Hamptons style!

What Is The Appeal Of Hamptons Style?

“People love the Hamptons aesthetic because it feels calm and refreshing,” says Becc. “It has a holiday vibe to it, but it isn’t precious and can withstand kids and pets. It’s also a style that holds its value because it uses cool, neutral colours and crisp whites that won’t date.”

Here’s what you need to pull off the look…

The Hamptons Fridge

If your budget kitchen renovation includes upgrading your old fridge, then make choosing a stylish finish your top priority. You might be surprised to learn that budget-friendly white can be a winner in a Hamptons kitchen!

“Especially in compact kitchens, you can opt for white appliances to give the illusion of more space and help bring costs down. But make sure you stick with the same finish across your fridge, oven and dishwasher so everything looks curated,” says Becc.

However, if you're shooting for a high-end look for less, stainless steel is the way to go. “Don’t be fooled into thinking stainless steel appliances are a luxury investment – nowadays, this sleek finish is actually extremely cost effective!” says Becc.

“In fact, in a classic Hamptons style kitchen, a stainless steel fridge is the easiest way to make an inexpensive renovation look designer.”

Shop Hamptons-Friendly Fridges

Kelvinator 503L Top Mount RefrigeratorLG 420L Bottom Mount RefrigeratorHisense 578L Side By Side Refrigerator

“In a classic Hamptons style kitchen, a stainless steel fridge is the easiest way to make an inexpensive renovation look designer.” Becc Burgmann, interior designer

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The Hamptons Oven And Cooktop

Taking centrestage in many Hamptons kitchens is a gorgeous freestanding oven. It’s the show stopper, so consider making this the investment piece in your kitchen renovation. “But if a freestanding oven isn’t going to work in your space, a great alternative is simply upgrading your cooktop. Anything with gas burners works in a Hamptons style kitchen,” says Becc. Pair with a statement rangehood and your kitchen will be Hamptons to a tee!

Shop Hamptons-Friendly Cooking Appliances

Chef 54cm LPG Gas Upright CookerDeLonghi 60cm Dual Fuel Upright CookerBeko 90cm Dual Fuel Upright Cooker

Small Appliances, Big Impact

Refreshing your small kitchen appliances is an affordable way to add some Hamptons charm to your space. “You’ll often see a country-chic KitchenAid stand mixer in the corner of a Hamptons benchtop, not only for use but decor!” says Becc. Also look at your coffee machine (a capsule model is a budget saviour), toaster and kettle to inject some pizazz and a pop of colour. Slate, cream, charcoal or blue all hit the Hampton’s brief.

Shop Hamptons-Friendly Small Appliances

Lavazza Desea White CreamRussell Hobbs Legacy 4 Slice Toaster – SlateBreville Kettle & Toaster Pack

The Hamptons Sink

Don’t forget the kitchen sink! “If you want a Hamptons feel, one of the easiest and most cost-effective updates is adding a provincial-style gooseneck tap,” says Becc. Lucky for you, The Good Guys have a huge variety of sink and tap fixtures, and this Hafele Polished Chrome Gooseneck Mixer Tap makes a sophisticated choice.

Hamptons Cabinetry

Shaker-style cabinets are your ticket to Hamptons elegance in the kitchen but if you’re willing to get crafty, they’re a cinch to recreate on a budget. Just adhere a frame to the front of existing cabinets and paint everything white. Voila! Adding detail in your cabinetry handles is another low-cost upgrade. Look for brass or chrome cup handles for a quintessential Hamptons look.

Finishing Touches

To style a Hamptons style kitchen on a budget, get thrifty! Make a day of vintage and second-hand shopping and keep an eye out for signature blue and white vases to fill with gorgeous hydrangeas and gardenias – both Hamptons favourites! Coastal knick-knacks like shells and corals are a simple way to add the beach-house feel, while decorative baskets, trays and glassware make a big impact without blowing the budget.

Ready to take your Hamptons kitchen makeover from mood board to real life for less? Talk to the design experts at Kinsman and visit The Good Guys in-store or online for the best advice and the best range of appliances.