Design Priorities for Coastal Outdoor Living Space in the Hamptons

A design-build guide to crafting refined, resilient outdoor spaces along the East End. Salt air, coastal breezes, and a steady stream of weekend guests shape the way outdoor spaces function in the Hamptons. More than a backdrop, these outdoor living space need to support effortless living while reflecting the quiet elegance of their surroundings. 

At BuildLabs, we’ve designed and built some of the East End’s most refined coastal homes, each one tailored to its microclimate, lifestyle, and view. In this guide, we’re sharing what truly matters when designing for luxury at the edge of the Atlantic, with real-world examples pulled straight from our own portfolio.

1. Durable Materials for Coastal Homes: Build to Last

In the Hamptons, the view does the talking. Every line, material, and opening should frame the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, whether it's a sweep of ocean, a quiet bay, or the sculpted geometry of a hedgerow. Keep profiles low. Use glass railings, vanishing-edge pools, and strategic sightlines to blur the boundary between indoors and out.

In one East Hampton project, BuildLabs paired broad glass sliders with low-slung hardscaping and minimal wire railing to let the Atlantic horizon spill straight into the bedrooms. Even a simple reflecting pool, when placed with care, can echo the sky and stretch the sense of space.

2. Build for a Beating

Coastal air is relentless. Salt, sun, and humidity demand materials that can withstand the elements without losing their aesthetic appeal. That’s why we prioritize naturally durable or engineered hardwoods, UV-resistant finishes, marine-grade hardware, and stonework built to last. For example, at several Sag Harbor projects, we carefully integrated durable, low-maintenance materials like time-tested cedar shingles that complement the historic home while ensuring longevity in a coastal environment. This balance of strength and style keeps the space looking fresh year after year.

Continue Reading: Outdoor Living Space Design Guide for the Hamptons: What Matters Most on the Coast

‍