blackened timber beach house hidden in wild dunes of amagansett

japanese influence arrives in amagansett

Standing resolute against the windswept dunes of Amagansett, a contemporary beach house has been designed by Starling Architecture and Emily Lindberg Studio to embody a dialogue between minimalist design and the wild coastal landscape. The home’s exterior takes shape with an austere composition, its facade clad in the charcoal hues of gendai shou sugi ban, a reminder of traditional Japanese techniques. This dark, raw cladding is contrasted by warm and welcoming interiors interwoven with exposed Douglas Fir and White Oak accents. This interplay of timber is a deliberate study in organic materiality within a minimalist framework.

imagse © Eric Petschek

starling architecture’s house around a pool

With its Amagansett Beach House, the design team at Starling Architecture curates a place for gatherings connected with nature. The heart of the home is its swimming pool, located on the courtyard and a focal point for the entire site. Interiors open toward this space through generous windows, with communal areas strategically positioned toward views of the pool deck. From the dramatic double-height living room to the integration of the dining area with the outdoors, every corner is crafted to cultivate a constant dialogue with the outdoors.

interiors by emily lindberg design

Curating the Amagansett Beach House, Starling Architecture collaborates with Emily Lindberg Design, an interiors studio which continued this exploration of duality. The team notes that the spirit of the project was a ‘blend of casual elegance and playful sophistication.’ The minimalist architecture serves as a blank canvas, upon which custom millwork pieces defined by playful curves and exaggerated proportions add a whimsical touch. Vintage finds, organic textures, and handmade elements seamlessly interweave with clean lines, creating a visual tapestry that is both inviting and undeniably dynamic. Drawing inspiration from its setting, the color palette reflects the vibrant hues of a sun-drenched summer. Bursts of hot pinks, yellows, and oranges infuse each space with the energy and vitality of a refreshing ocean plunge. Hints of sky blue and ocean teal weave through the rooms, bringing a sense of calm that resonates throughout the home.

The landscape surrounding the Amagansett Beach House, designed in collaboration with Design Projects, serves as an extension of its natural allure. Every element, from the scent of spring blossoms to the fiery hues of autumn leaves, is curated to evoke a sense of harmony with the surrounding dunes and native plant communities. The front garden, simple yet elegant, features a captivating mix of meadow grasses and woody shrubs. Closer to the pool, a controlled landscape adorned with evergreens and climbing roses offers both privacy and intrigue.