The ultimate guide to a Hamptons lounge room

Give your lounge room a Hamptons-style update, by following these simple DIY projects.

WATCH: How to create a Hamptons lounge room

Rich wall colours made this living room seem smaller and darker than it was, and dated it to boot. The existing white plantation shutters were the inspiration for a Hamptons-style update that used two key elements of the classic look – panelled walls and a palette featuring neutral tones and chic blues.

If your living space is all about colour and clutter but you want it to be serene and streamlined, take your cue from this room revamp. It looks like a professional design job, but this Hamptons haven is DIY all the way! So get out your toolkit and the dropsheets and get to work. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to give your living-in-the-past room cool, contemporary, coastal charm.

1. How to DIY your own wainscoting

How to DIY and install your own Hamptons-style wainscoting — Use decorative panels to give your walls dimension.

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Paint your room to create a backdrop for the revamp, then glue pre-cut panels to the walls for DIY wainscoting. Click here for the step by step.

2. How to make picture shelves

Give your picture frames an update with paint and display them on floating shelves. Click here for the step by step.

3. How to make a merbau side table

Tripod tables are a classic in many design styles, from curvy timber antiques to modern minimalist pieces. To make your own, simply screw legs to tabletops. C lick here for the step by step.

4. How to give your TV cabinet a makeover

Before you spend on new furniture, take a look at which of your pieces can be upcycled to fit in with the new look. Click here for the guide.

Hallmarks of Hamptons style

Hailing from the beach holiday homes of Long Island, New York, this style is about relaxed coastal living. Defined by architectural features, timber floors, natural textures and a palette of crisp white with neutrals and blues, there is variation in the look – classic, nautical, luxe – but the basics stay the same.