Hamptons Builder Confab: What Is Your Favorite Amenity To Design & Build?

Hamptons Builders Hamptons Real Estate

In the world of luxury real estate in the Hamptons, where expansive estates and carefully designed homes are a defining feature, builders continually push the limits of design and innovation. However, when it comes to adding personal touches that take these homes to the next level, every builder has a favorite feature – an amenity that not only improves the living experience but also reflects the client’s vision of ultimate comfort and style. We asked some of the most renowned builders in the Hamptons a simple question: What is your favorite amenity to design and build? Their answers show a shared passion for creating spaces that blend elegance with functionality, turning homes into true havens of luxury.

Michael Davis, Michael Davis Design & Construction

Michael Davis. Courtesy of Michael Davis Design & Construction

One of our top recommendations when designing a luxury home is a dedicated wellness space—your sanctuary for health and relaxation. Imagine an infrared sauna, steam room, and cold plunge, all thoughtfully integrated to create a spa-like experience at home. Ideally connected to a state-of-the-art home gym, this setup offers a seamless transition from workout to recovery, allowing total rejuvenation. For the ultimate in wellness, we suggest proximity to the swimming pool and spa, ensuring a smooth flow between fitness, relaxation, and hydrotherapy. An adjacent outdoor space completes the experience, offering a peaceful retreat where you can unwind in the fresh air and sunlight. It’s the perfect way to make your home a haven of tranquility and well-being.

MICHAEL DAVIS DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

Mercer Built

Hamptons builder, Justin Marinoff. Photo: Ty Wenzel
Hamptons builder Justin Marinoff. Photo by Ty Wenzel

These lower-level designs not only increase the usable square footage of the home but enhance the overall lifestyle experience. Whether it’s a peaceful sanctuary for unwinding after a long day or a vibrant space for family activities, the lower level is designed with intention and luxury in mind. By making these areas as comfortable and inviting as the rest of the home, we ensure that every corner of the property is optimized for enjoyment and relaxation.

MERCER BUILT

Martin Architects / 4MA Builders

Nick Martin. Photo courtesy of Martin Architect / 4MA Builders

My favorite amenity to design and build is one that embodies sustainability and craftsmanship. I take great pride in ensuring that the house is built sustainably, focusing on eco-friendly practices and meticulous attention to sun exposure. This not only enhances the home’s brilliance but also creates a space that harmonizes with its environment.

I particularly enjoy designing dynamic stairways that allow natural light to pour through, energizing the entire space and creating a welcoming atmosphere. The use of contrasting scales throughout the home adds an intriguing depth, compressing and expanding the experience, which truly brings the architecture to life.

Additionally, I love incorporating diverse textures, patterns, and geometries in the design palette. These elements awaken the senses and create a rich, engaging environment that feels both inviting and inspiring. Each aspect of the design plays a vital role in crafting a home that resonates with its inhabitants and enhances their daily living experience.

MARTIN ARCHITECTS / 4MA BUILDERS

Doug Cavallo, Cavallo Building

Doug Cavallo. Photo by Ty Wenzel

One of the most sought-after amenities we incorporate into our homes is outdoor entertainment spaces. These typically feature a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen, complete with a grill, refrigerator, and ice maker. When space allows, we also like to include a bar area with seating to create a social hub for guests. In addition, we often integrate fire pits, allowing for a natural flow from the bar to a cozy area where guests can relax with a drink or enjoy a meal by the fire. Given that the homes we build are used most frequently during the summer and warmer months, it’s essential to ensure the outdoor areas are just as comfortable and inviting as the interiors.

CAVALLO BUILDING



Ty Wenzel

Co-Publisher & Contributor

Ty Wenzel, a recent breast cancer survivor, started her career as a fashion coordinator for Bloomingdale’s followed by fashion editor for Cosmopolitan Magazine. She was also a writer for countless publications, including having published a memoir (St. Martin's Press) and written features for The New York Times. She is an award-winning writer and designer who covers lifestyle, real estate, architecture and interiors for James Lane Post. She previously worked as a writer and marketing director for The Independent. She has won multiple PCLI and NYPA awards for journalism, social media and design, including best website design and best magazine for James Lane Post, which she co-founded in 2020. Wenzel is also a co-founder of the meditation app for kids, DreamyKid, and the Hamptons social media agency, TWM Hamptons Social Media.

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