Los Angeles-based vintage dealer MERIT is putting down permanent roots in The Hamptons in the iconic two-acre property at 257 County Road 39A, comprising several structures beyond the main house. Many Hamptons residents and visitors will recognize that from 1996-2022 this was the site of Mecox Gardens. Merit founder and owner, Paul Bearman, has signed a 10-year lease, reflecting a significant investment and dedication to expanding his business to the East Coast.
“I had been thinking about it for a few years. Once I saw the space in Southampton, I fell in love with it and decided it was this or nothing,” said Bearman. “The Hamptons felt like the only natural progression for Merit. With so much space to play with, Merit can evolve into this new location, growing, showcasing, and selling its unique blend of vintage furniture, art, objects and games.” Staple designers and vintage brands include Jacques Adnet, Hermes, Willy Guhl, Pierre Jeanneret, Mathieu Mategot, Gucci, Frank Gehry and Goyard.
Bearman admits there is a lot of space, “It is way more than I need, but like all things, you need something to grow into.” The store will evolve every day and every year. Ultimately, he wants this location to be equal parts experience and business. Adding a pickleball court, swimming pool, basketball court, and transportation around the property are all at the top of his list.
As this first season progresses, Bearman will engage with the local community, hosting events with Aperol spritz and gelato trucks, with his youthful playfulness and curiosity being front and center. Looking at the vintage Porches parked out front to the engaging mixture of pieces shows even the casual customer that this isn’t your grandfather’s antique store.
“We aren’t here as a pop-up or seasonally,” Bearman explains. “We are planting roots in the Hamptons for good. The plan is for Merit to be open every day, year-round. The dictionary definition of Merit is ‘exceptionally good or worthy.’ The idea of Merit is to own and collect things worthy of being kept forever. The best things in life will outlast us. Art, watches, prized possessions and collectibles will be passed from parents to their children. Only some of the things we sell are historically important. But so many items we sell are things you will never part with.”
“Merit Los Angeles was my baby and still is. The Hamptons is Merit 2.0. Creating a lifestyle around the brand with vintage cars, experiences, and fun here at the store, coupled with great merchandise. I want people to come to hang out at Merit Southampton and enjoy the space.”
Photography by Rayon Richards.
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