Check out this house. I die.
Believe it or not, this house in the Hamptons is new. Designed and decorated to perfection by it’s owners, James and Whitney Fairchild. This stylish duo created their home while vice presidents of Ralph Lauren and this lush and gorgeous story ran in House & Garden (R.I.P.) in June 2004.
Can you imagine living in that house on that piece of land?!
The interiors build off an impeccable shell with pristine mouldings, double-hung windows with classic mullions, and fireplaces galore.
Creamy walls, Chinese export ceramics, white twill sofas, and handsome antiques add up to the perfect all-American setting.
I love that this bathroom combines cool white marble with painted bead board. The tub isn’t a ‘statement tub’ but rather it’s encased in millwork with a stone deck. Totally understated, yet totally luxe. I’ll keep a mental note of this for one day…Oh and the tub faces a fireplace hearth to cozy up to – okay, if I have to…
And isn’t this campaign-style bamboo bed dreamy? It’s so bold and architectural, yet warm and inviting. I love how the Fairchild’s have gone whole-hog with this look and paired it with more Chinese export blue and white for the lamps. Blue and white ceramics are one of my all-time favourites! I have some on my computer desk as I type this blog! Also, love the personal touches like the framed family photographs.
And this kitchen is a-m-a-z-i-n-g! The honey-pine harvest table reminds me of butcher block and I love it paired with mid-tone wicker chairs. Then more blue and white and glassware on the table and a fireplace and brass chandelier to up the elegance factor. The shaker-style cabinets and rustic brick fire surround are humble elements and everything just adds up to a relaxed-yet-luxurious beauty. But then these are some of the top dogs behind Ralph Lauren so what would you expect?
Finally the arresting cover that I love! How fantastic is that bold and iconic typeset – and in crimson red?! House & Garden knew exactly how to do it. Good thing I save back issues because they are extinct! At least this beautiful story lives on to inspire us all. We can use this timeless formula of antique+wicker+blue/white ceramics+bamboo+creamy paint and upholstery at any price point and pretend we’re Ralph-types in the Hamptons can’t we?







Sigh…… how lovely.
Love it Michael. thanks for sharing. I love anything to do with the Hamptons!
I know Marsha – the Hamptons are just so full of style! And Martha has a house there and Ina Garten too, so that doesn’t hurt!
Michael
The house and land are stunning indeed. I could imagine spending a lot of time in a dreamy place like this. Every detail divine. Especially loving the overall feel of the bathroom. xo
The bathroom is pretty special isn’t it. I didn’t mention it, but I also really, really like the sink with it’s porcelain legs. Dreamy…
Michael
Thanks for posting! I actually used this magazine spread to start decorating my new house…. It’s so timeless and formal while still feeling relaxed…. The definition of luxury in my book! If my rooms get further along I will post !
Thanks Kate – please do!
Michael
[...] House and Garden ~ Whitney Fairchild (above/below) [...]
HI there Love love their style Any ideas if there are any pictures of their new homes in the Hamptons now that they are divorced