how the other half live: sjp // 8 Feb 2011

I’ve got to be honest… on the style front, it’s not all been plain sailing for Sarah Jessica Parker. As much as she can look incredible, there have been a few occasions where she looks like she’s just thrown on everything she owns. In the dark. But when it comes to her interior taste, she’s got it nailed. Parker’s weekend home in Bridgehampton, New York, is an extremely stylish haven that is clearly designed for both relaxation and entertainment.
Designed by Eric Hughes, the 19th century farmhouse is a place where Parker, her husband Matthew Broderick and son James Wilke can escape the bustle of Manhattan, and from the beginning she knew exactly the feel she was striving for: “It was important that the house not be too precious. We didn’t want anything stuffy or showy. We wanted colour and light, and comfort, comfort, comfort.” For Hughes, it was important that the beauty of the house was evident: “I wanted to let the architecture speak for itself, and then fill the rooms with punches of colour and simple pieces with lots of character.” He wasn’t afraid to mix high style with pieces from IKEA and local thrift stores, which prevents it looking too ostentatious.
I must say, I think that Parker and Hughes have achieved an impressive balance with this decor; the white walls make the most of the light that floods through the windows, and the colourful accents add not only interest, but a laid-back overall impression. Yep, I would quite happily move in, should SJP ask me. But only if I had access to the Manolos.

{images via Elle Decor}

{La Mela screenprint / Sweetpea & Willow Frascati dressing table / IKEA side table / OKA camargue chair / Sweetpea & Willow French sofa chair}