What had become a quietly fading shingle-style home from the early 1900s in the Hamptons has been transformed by interior designer Jessie Schuster into a space that intimately weaves in family history and coastal elegance. Stripping back past alterations, the renovation celebrates the house’s architectural soul while embracing textures, art, and natural materials to create a place both emotionally resonant and beautifully modern.
- Early 1900s Hamptons home revitalized with historic details intact
- Design inspired by family memories and sensory experiences
- Mix of contemporary art and natural materials creates warmth
What happened
Interior designer Jessie Schuster undertook a personal project to restore her sister’s century-old Hamptons home, which had lost some of its original charm over time. The property, a shingle-style house featuring a guest and pool house, was surrounded by mature gardens and had a relaxed coastal feel. Many architectural elements had been obscured by previous updates.
Schuster’s approach involved peeling back layers of renovation to reveal and preserve the house’s historical details and intricate millwork. She collaborated closely with her sister, reflecting on their shared childhood experiences and the sensory memories tied to summer days, such as the scent of cedar and the feeling of bare feet on the floor, to inform the design direction.
Why it feels good
The renovation gracefully balances the home’s vintage character with modern living needs. By focusing on natural materials like oak, linen, stone, and wool, the interiors exude a warm, grounded authenticity. Unlacquered finishes and performance textiles add texture and depth that evolve over time, creating a past-meets-present atmosphere that feels both timeless and welcoming.
Art played a central role in defining the home’s spirit, with works by artists such as Robert Rauschenberg and Peter Beard enriching the space. The carefully curated mix of contemporary art, vintage furniture, and handcrafted objects layers character and soul into every room, helping to soften formality and invite relaxed, multigenerational living.
What to enjoy or watch next
Visitors and admirers of this restored Hamptons home can enjoy the thoughtful interplay of classic architecture and carefully selected design details that allow the house’s history to shine. Spaces like the sunlit breakfast nook and the cozy family room blend comfort with style, making it ideal for everyday moments as well as entertaining.
For those interested in design stories rooted in personal history and preservation, following Jessie Schuster’s future projects promises continued celebration of craftsmanship and memory. Additionally, exploring similar coastal homes that embrace heritage styles with a modern touch could inspire a new appreciation for layering history and comfort in living spaces.