TRAVEL DESTINATION-c/o THE MAIDSTONE EAST HAMPTON

I'm often asked by reader's to recommend a hotel for a holiday in the Hampton's and I always suggest the eclectic c/o The Maidstone in East Hampton. Formerly the Maidstone Inn, the iconic 18th century property was bought and invigorated by Swedish hotelier Jenny Ljungberg in 2008 with stunning results. The hotel has 19 rooms which were designed and decorated with a nod to the owner's Scandinavian heritage, each room a celebration of a renowned Scandinavian personality. My favorite room is the Josef Frank bedroom, a brilliant blue homage to the seminal designer, but I would be equally blissful staying in the subdued Sonja Henie room or the Norwegian explorer, Thor Heyerdahl's, dramatic suite. 

While the interior of the Inn is a vibrant tribute to Scandinavian design, the exterior of the property remains classic, with a storybook gabled roof, green shutters and massive striped awning which wraps around the gracious summer porch. Grab one of the Inn's bikes and spend your day exploring town and the Hampton's gorgeous beaches and later bring your appetite to The Inn's restaurant, The Living Room, which serves an eclectic menu based on the Slow Food movement. The Inn is truly special, the perfect blend of old and new, and my favorite place to stay in the Hamptons!

Josef Frank Room and Bath

 Verner Panton

Eliel and Eero Saarinen Suite

Karen Blixen Suite

Tove Jansson

 Cocktails on the porch

Dinner at the Living Room