Tui Lifestyle’s Innovative Signature living room

 
  Jason Atkins
 
  Tui Lifestyle’s East Hampton collection

The Hamptons are about relishing those precious summer days,” says Jason Atkins, founder and chairman of Tui Lifestyle, which can fully furnish homes in 72 hours through “turnkey” packages. “Don’t waste treasured time shopping, planning and waiting for your home décor.”

Between the end-of-season barbecues about to be hosted and the holiday get-togethers that will be here sooner than it seems, time is of the essence when it comes to setting the stage. But regardless whether your home needs a little sprucing up or a top-to-bottom overhaul, taking the first step is often the hardest part. “All too often we go out and simply buy things we like without first developing an overall design concept,” says Atkins. “Select the colors and the hues you like for the room or the home, then select the type of furniture you like the best—is it the comfy sectional or a more formal sofa? Four, what are your dream features? Once you have made your selections and thought of how you want your home to look, then it is the right time to go find all the components that make up your designer look.”

The East End is all about being perfectly pulled together and effortlessly chic. Take that sense of relaxed elegance and apply it to your home using a color palette that reflects the beachside setting. “It is important to create spaces where people can eat, relax and enjoy each other’s company,” says Atkins. “One great way to create this space is bringing people to the heart of the home. Placing bar stools around the kitchen counter is always a sure winner.”

Come winter family and friends will readily gather in a warm kitchen where mouthwatering smells waft from the oven. But while the weather is still warm, covered porches and gazebos are often prime locations for memorable dinner parties. “Small groupings of beautiful furniture and accessories are great for stimulating inspiring conversation,” says Atkins. “The outdoor entertaining area should provide a harmonious and sophisticated transition from the indoor to the outdoor living spaces.”

Because of the Hamptons’ proximity to the ocean, it is important to use weather-resistant furniture when decorating outdoors. “The best way to extend the life of weather-resistant furniture is to reduce its exposure to the elements,” says Atkins. “Cover the furniture or bring it indoors when you are not using it. You should also clean outdoor furniture frequently in order to prevent corrosion from the moisture, salt and sun.”

While that sunporch chaise is most likely not as delicate as the cocktail dress or pressed white linen pants you wore to host your dinner party, they are also not meant for industrial washers. “Always check the manufacturer’s instructions, but as a general rule, water and mild soap is perfect for cleaning outdoor furniture,” says Atkins. “Once it is completely dry, you can use oil and wax products to protect and preserve the wood. You can also wash outdoor fabrics with mild soap and water and hang to dry.”