Amagansett Beach House by Starling Architecture and Emily Lindberg Design

Words by Sara Jacob
Photography by Eric Petschek
Styling by Eric Wink

Though initially bought as a rental investment, Amagansett Beach House evoked such fond memories of a childhood spent by the water that its purpose was redefined. Collaborating with interiors firm Emily Lindberg Design, Starling Architecture reimagines the 1960s bungalow as a modern coastal retreat.

Located minutes away from the shore, as well as the town centre, the house allows residents to engage with the charming community of Amagansett. As the bungalow was built in the 1960s, the design brief saw the renovated building adapted for contemporary entertainment; the outdoor pool is championed and the limitations of the cramped second floor are resolved. Developing the character of the home, the interior design utilises existing skylights and exposed beams, in combination with new soft furnishings.

As the bungalow was built in the 1960s, the design brief saw the renovated building adapted for contemporary entertainment.

In contrast to the rugged coastal landscape, the architecture of Amagansett Beach House is comprised of clean lines that emphasise the form of the building. The refined structure is organised around the pool, which is placed on an elevated deck at the centre of the site to indicate a love of water. Meadow grasses, pines, oaks and woody shrubs in the front garden reference the natural beauty of Amagansett as well as beach plants. To similar effect, the building exterior is clad in Shou Sugi Ban: charred timber, brushed once.

Floor-to-ceiling windows brighten the communal areas within Amagansett Beach House. In the living room, natural light is received by a dramatic double-height space that speaks to the relaxing openness of the home. A large glass pocket door in the dining room enables nature to be further embraced, as the interior and courtyard are seamlessly connected. Outside, the landscaping closer to the pool – consisting of a mixed hedge of evergreens and serviceberries – shields key amenities from neighbouring views.

Expressing a bold approach to colour, the interior design of Amagansett Beach House is reminiscent of the local scenery in bright sunlight.

Expressing a bold approach to colour, the interior design of Amagansett Beach House is reminiscent of the local scenery in bright sunlight. Artworks introduce yellow, hot pinks and oranges into the home, the warmth of which is balanced by shades of sky blue and teal. Complementing the abundance of colour is an energising interplay of timber elements, in which the Douglas fir architecture contrasts white oak floors, panelling and custom millwork of exaggerated proportions. Upholstered seating ensures that striking views can be enjoyed in comfort.

A celebration of coastal living, Amagansett Beach House builds upon memories of childhood joy. Injecting individual personality into the 1960s bungalow, Starling Architecture and Emily Lindberg Design present the home as one that would befit a person who loves the ocean.

Architecture by Starling Architecture. Interior design by Emily Lindberg Design. Build by Hagerman Builders. Landscape design by Design Projects.