Summer in the Hamptons can be summed up in three words–sun, beach and, of course, entertaining. Taking the latter to heart, interior designer Tim Croneberger of Halcyon Design and his partner, Glenn Finn, often play hosts throughout the season, throwing everything from 100-person outdoor dinner parties to lazy Sunday morning brunches. Here, Croneberger explains how he keeps his guests coming back year after year.
Comfort is key. We’ve made a conscious choice in our home to maintain interiors that aren’t too precious. There’s no space that doesn’t beg for you to curl up or stretch out. Sisal rugs mask sand that’s tracked in and cotton canvas and linens are the best protection against wet bathing suits. Cowhide throw rugs are also great as they have a natural oil that repels stains.
Create a welcoming mood. Guest rooms should have the same amenities as one would expect in a fine hotel–and then some. The bedside table should always have fresh-cut flowers and bottled water, and I like to frame a picture of the guest and I together from a fun time we shared.
Use what’s in bloom. I always decorate with hydrangeas–they’re overflowing throughout the property. I’ll cut 30 or 40 stems and put them in vases all over the house. I also love adding whatever is in season from the farmers’ market, such as peonies and ranunculus. Sprigs of privet when it’s in bloom are really fragrant and are great in bathrooms or on those bedside tables.
Cook together. I love piling in the kitchen with everyone, drinking W0lffer Estate’s Summer in a Bottle rose and prepping for dinner–our go-to summer meal is usually grilled flank steak with a ground coffee rub. Also, put on some good music; it provides a soundtrack that brings back memories as soon as you hear a certain song, and then everyone enjoys pitching in.
Have a go-to dish. We’ve become known for our “country scramble” Sunday-morning breakfasts, which are comprised of leftovers from the night before. It’s a big egg scramble with herbs, diced potatoes, extra cuts of meat and some grated cheese from last night’s cocktail hour. Pair that with a Bloody Mary bar and a mimosa station and you’re pretty much everyone’s favorite host.
