It was only a matter of time before House Rules tackled the Hamptons look. Here are our key take-outs from the reno in Hope Island on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

‘Florian’ 2 and 3 seater sofas, Early Settler
White adds light
The contestants added touches of the Hamptons with white timber detailing throughout the house, particularly with the use of wainscoting to unite all the rooms.

‘Seafoam’ landscape, $248, Urban Road | ‘Thibaut’ wallpaper in Navy, Affordable Decorators
Simple lighting
Clear glass lights with simple metallic touches (preferably in black), add a light and airy coastal element to interior styling. Glass lanterns (such as the ‘Southhampton‘ wall scones and the ‘Corbelle‘ pendant seen here from Beacon Lighting) over an island bench are a key element of a Hamptons-style kitchen.

Pretty patterns
Cushions in a mix of blue and white patterns (with the odd pop of colour) provide a crisp finishing touch to living spaces. Don’t be afraid to mix designs or shapes, but try to keep within a tight colour palette.

‘Florian’ 2 and 3 seater sofas, Early Settler

Bedlinen, Canningvale | ‘Adagio’ headboard in Slate, Bedshed | Assorted cushions, Early Settler & Affordable Decorators
Rediscover the mudroom
House Rules judge Drew Heath says that he is welcoming the return of the mudroom to Australian homes. Banished from floor plans during the minimalist 1960s, it’s becoming the new must-have. A mudroom is a great practical element of any family home, he says, helping the kids to keep the dirt, sand or mess at the door.

Cushions, Affordable Decorators | Beach Bag, Adairs


The double shower adds a touch of luxury
House Rules judge Wendy Moore says that double showers are fast becoming a trend in bathroom renovations. “Having a double shower is quite luxurious – and great with kids,” she says. She also liked the twist in the Hope Island renovation with the teams choosing two different showerheads for the homeowners. “I thought that was quite nice,” she says.

‘Vista’ wall mount vanity cabinet in White, Highgrove Bathrooms

‘Agrestic’ wall tiles in Blue Gloss, Beaumont Tiles | Eden tapware, Highgrove Bathrooms