Why Beach-Inspired Home Designs Are Thriving In NSW’s Hunter And Newcastle Region

Coastal living has long shaped Australia’s architectural identity, but nowhere is its influence more evident than in NSW’s Hunter and Newcastle region.

As the area continues to grow, with new master-planned communities, waterfront and riverfront properties, buyers are increasingly gravitating towards home designs that combine comfortable living, natural light and strong indoor-outdoor connections.

For many, that traditionally means the ever-popular Hamptons look.

But today, regional design preferences are growing, with homeowners combining Hamptons references with modern coastal influences, the simplicity of a modern beach house and subtle Palm Springs-inspired elements.

“It’s a natural fit for the environment and the way people here like to live,” said Metricon Homes NSW General Manager, David Shorten.

“Families want a home that feels calm, comfortable and connected to the outdoors, and beach-inspired design achieves just that.”

A progressive take on beach style

The classic Hamptons aesthetic, with soft tones, generous proportions and natural textures, still resonates strongly with consumers.

But its evolution in Australia has led to a more relaxed, modern approach.

Here, Hamptons influences meet local coastal sensibilities: unadorned details, simple materials and palettes that reflect the surrounding beaches, forest and waterways.

Outside, traditional features such as weatherboard cladding, gable roofs and large alfrescos remain popular. Inside, open plan living, high ceilings and shaker style kitchens continue to define the look.

A cool base of whites and neutrals, complemented by grays, stone colors and muted greens, help create the sense of calm that many homeowners seek.

But the modern market is looking for more than a single design direction.

A broad coastal design movement

According to Mr Shorten, consumers in the Hunter and Newcastle region are increasingly exploring other definitions of coastal living.

Modern Coastal

Characterized by clean lines, warm timbers, stone accents and airy, uncluttered interiors, modern coastal design has become a natural extension of the region’s surf culture and relaxed lifestyle.

“It’s a new, very simple plan for a coastal building,” Mr Shorten said. “Many customers still want softness and warmth, but clean and contemporary.”

Coastal modern is an updated version of the style that design-conscious homeowners already love.

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The Beach House

Inspired by classic Australian beach shacks, this look focuses on simplicity and practicality: white or light-toned facades, vertical shuttering, open living spaces and natural materials that withstand coastal conditions.

It’s especially popular in coastal and oceanic pockets where a casual, active lifestyle is key.

Although it seems simple, the style of the beach house still pays tribute to the Australian beach culture.

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Palm Springs

A new influence, especially among design-conscious consumers.

Think breezy blocks, subtle retro lines, minimal landscaping and a sun-kissed palette that combines warm stone and shimmering coastal tones.

This aesthetic fits Hunter’s pockets when buyers are looking for something coastal, but with a modern architectural twist.

“These styles sit comfortably alongside the Hamptons,” explained Mr Shorten.

“People are mixing elements of beauty to create something that feels uniquely Australian and suits their lifestyle.”

Moving beyond the classic Hamptons style, Palm Springs design is becoming increasingly popular.

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Metricon difference

Metricon has long offered Hamptons and beach-inspired options, but the brand’s approach has changed as customer preferences have varied.

“The main thing we emphasize is that coastal design today is not about strictly following one look, it’s about creating a feeling,” said Mr Shorten.

“Light, calm, comfortable interior. Natural styles. Strong connection with outdoor life.”

In the Hunter and Newcastle region, Metricon offers a range of Designer and Liberty homes with facades and interiors that include Hamptons, modern coastal and modern minimalist styles.

Customers can test this through a selection of Metricon Lookbooks, each offering practical inspiration relevant to Australian living.

“Many buyers end up creating a mixed look,” he adds.

“A clean classic facade, a modern interior, or a coastal palette with a detailed Hamptons touch. The result feels contemporary, comfortable and perfectly suited to the region.”

Property in the Hunter or Newcastle area

For those looking to build in the Hunter or Newcastle region, the area’s mix of coastal, urban and rural settings provides an ideal backdrop for a variety of home designs.

Metricon offers a variety of facades and floor plans that suit the lifestyle of the region and landscape, helping customers create a home that feels thoughtful, comfortable and connected to its surroundings.

Anyone starting their building journey in the Hunter or Newcastle area can speak to the Metricon team to explore suitable designs, view show homes or get tailored advice to bring their coastal vision to life.

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