Sometimes, finding a certain sense of peace is closer than you might think. This unassuming property, situated on the Gold Coast of Long Island in pristine Oyster Bay Cove, presented all the makings of a tranquil retreat – with a bit of imagination called into action. The home is set back on two private acres of lush natural foliage and mature trees, offering up an escape from the hustle and bustle while being just a stone’s throw away from a private beach on the Long Island Sound.
From the moment interior designer Amanda Fields first stepped into the rambling ranch, she knew it had immense potential to embody the idea of a serene retreat. “I loved the flow of the home right away,” she recalls. But the first priority was to deeply understand what her clients were looking to achieve holistically throughout the house. “While I am always focused on designing a beautiful home that reflects each client,” Fields explains, “it is essential that each room reflects their lifestyle.” The designer’s vision was clear: to open up the floor plan and showcase the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. “With any new project, I want to stay true to the bones of the home, making sure I maintain its integrity.”
“This design called for a more traditional aesthetic, however – one I wanted to feel fresh and inviting.” With her directives in place, Fields proceeded to achieve this by choosing timeless finishes and furnishings with a warm color palette and variations of texture.
Drawing inspiration from the unique setting, Fields incorporated stone accents, earth tones and natural materials to reflect the landscape. As she explains, “I chose to paint the exterior white and include light-gray board-and-batten shutters to achieve a bungalow feel.” Collaborating closely with the landscaper, the team installed a pea-stone driveway and planted grasses and hydrangeas in keeping with its coastal location.
Moving inside, functionality was at the forefront of Fields’ design philosophy as she set out to reinvigorate the house with a freshness. Understanding the client’s needs was paramount in doing so. “It is essential to first determine the layout of each room and the functions within the space before focusing on any design elements.” By vaulting ceilings, removing walls and modifying bathroom configurations, Fields amped up the home’s flow while ensuring functional moments along the way. Case in point: The creation of a mudroom and laundry room from a previously unused garage space demonstrates Fields’ commitment to balancing aesthetics with purpose. “Designing a home is a layered process, and the first layer must be functionality,” she emphasizes.
Selecting materials that allowed for a unified flow was key to the design process. “During the planning phase of any new project,” Fields notes, “I spend a lot of time selecting materials that allow for a cohesive flow.” Warm grays and creams, seen in the quartzite countertops and stone fireplace surround, create a serene atmosphere through soft, subtle touchpoints and barely there palettes. The original built-ins in the dining room were refinished and painted a warm gray, informing many accents to follow.
Among Fields’ favorite features are the foyer with its tray ceiling, greige shiplap walls and beautiful bowl light fixture, and the family room’s fireplace. “I think the entry instantly sets the tone for the house,” shares the designer. And then there’re the original built-ins flanking the custom zinc-topped table – “They’re perfection!” states Fields. “I love the symmetry in that space and how well the zinc works with all the other elements.”
Fields’ ultimate goal for this Oyster Bay Cove home was to create a sanctum, a place where softness renders serenity from one room to another. “Pulling into the gravel driveway, you instantly feel like you are at a retreat,” she describes. With layers of soft, rich colors, ambient lighting and textured materials, she has succeeded in crafting a home that reveals itself the longer you spend in it. The designer muses, “With all my projects, I want the client to feel their home is their sanctuary – a respite from the outside world. And I think I was able to achieve that here.”
Photography by Brian Phelps.
Like what you see? Get it first with a subscription to aspire design and home magazine.