The Hamptons
The Hamptons with Barbra Fordyce
Few destinations embody the intersection of art, architecture, landscape and effortless coastal living quite like the Hamptons. Stretching along New York's East End, this storied enclave has long attracted artists, collectors, designers and cultural tastemakers drawn to its unique blend of natural beauty and creative energy.
For interior designer Barbra Fordyce, the Hamptons is more than a summer escape. It is a place where world-class museums sit alongside hidden gardens, where contemporary art and collectible design coexist with weathered farm stands and waterfront seafood shacks, and where inspiration can be found as easily in a windswept dune as in a carefully curated gallery.
In this Design Destination Guide, Barbra shares the places she returns to time and again — from iconic cultural institutions and design-led discoveries to favourite restaurants, boutique stays and local treasures that capture the spirit of the Hamptons beyond the obvious.
JUNE 2026
Words: designeers and BARBRA FORDYCE
Art & Culture
Peter Marino Art Foundation
Housed within a former industrial building reimagined by architect and collector Peter Marino, the foundation presents a remarkable collection of contemporary and modern art alongside furniture, sculpture and design. A must-visit for anyone interested in the dialogue between architecture, collecting and craftsmanship.
Parrish Art Museum
One of the Hamptons' most important cultural institutions, the Parrish is celebrated as much for its architecture as its collection. The light-filled building and thoughtfully curated exhibitions make it an enduring source of inspiration for artists, designers and collectors alike.
Southampton Arts Center
At the heart of Southampton's cultural scene, the Arts Center hosts a dynamic programme of exhibitions, talks and performances, offering a snapshot of the creative energy that continues to shape the East End.
Pollock-Krasner House
The former home and studio of Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner offers an intimate glimpse into one of the most influential artistic partnerships of the twentieth century. The paint-splattered studio floor alone is worth the visit.
Design & Collecting
The Church
A beautifully restored nineteenth-century church transformed into a cultural destination by artists Eric Fischl and April Gornik. The Church has quickly become one of the Hamptons' most compelling venues for contemporary art, design and creative dialogue.
MONC XIII
A carefully curated destination for collectible furniture, vintage pieces and contemporary design. MONC XIII embodies the understated sophistication that has come to define Sag Harbor's evolving design scene.
Jeff Lincoln Art + Design
Part gallery, part design showroom, Jeff Lincoln's space brings together contemporary art, furniture and objects with a distinctly residential sensibility, making it a favourite among collectors and design enthusiasts.
AERIN
The East Hampton outpost of Aerin Lauder's lifestyle brand offers an elegant mix of furniture, lighting, tabletop pieces and decorative objects, capturing the timeless East Coast aesthetic that continues to influence interiors worldwide.
Gardens & Landscape
Madoo Conservancy
One of America's most enchanting gardens, Madoo combines English romanticism with Mediterranean influences and East End charm. A lesson in how landscape can create atmosphere, intimacy and delight.
LongHouse Gardens
The gardens at LongHouse are a destination in their own right. Sculpture, planting and architecture unfold across the landscape, creating a series of outdoor rooms that reward slow exploration.
Tables Worth Booking
Pierre's
A longstanding favourite that brings a distinctly European sensibility to the Hamptons. Perfect for people-watching over coffee or lingering over lunch beneath the trees.
Duryea's
Arguably one of the Hamptons' most iconic waterfront destinations. Overlooking the harbour in Montauk, Duryea's is beloved for its laid-back atmosphere, seafood and unforgettable sunset views.
The Maidstone
Set within a historic inn, The Maidstone offers a more intimate dining experience where Scandinavian influences meet classic East Hampton charm.
Where to Stay
The Roundtree
A beautifully restored retreat that captures the quieter side of the Hamptons. Thoughtfully designed interiors, generous grounds and a sense of understated luxury make it an ideal base for exploring the East End.
The Surf Lodge
Part hotel, part cultural hub, The Surf Lodge has become synonymous with the modern Montauk lifestyle, attracting a creative crowd drawn to its music, design and beachside energy.
photography CREDITS
parish art museum Jason Schmidt
the church scott frances
More from Barbra Fordyce
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