First and foremost, please excuse my temporary hiatus. I cannot guarantee this will be the last one over the course of the next six weeks. Over the next month or so, I need to be nearly 100% focused on preparing for my future endeavors. But more on that in another post…
Back to the important stuff!
When you think about the Hamptons, the first things that comes to mind are the private beaches, McMansions, and the “It” crowd. And for the most part, these are spot on assumptions about this exclusive area on Long Island. After living in the Hamptons for a summer, I can attest to everything relating to the lifestyle of the rich and famous.
The price tag on basically… everything, is over the top essssspensive. Although, I did find a reasonable boutique wine shop in Sag Harbor with reasonable prices. It’s no Trader Joes, but it won’t have you walking out the door in frustration about the idea of paying what you would for a meal for two at home, for some crushed grapes.
Things can become a bit much if you immerse yourself too deeply into the culture of the Hamptons.
With that being said, you can also find hidden treasures within the mansions and perfectly trimmed hedges protecting them. For example: LongHouse Reserve.
LongHouse Reserve was founded by Jack Lenor Larsen, internationally known textile designer, author, and collector. His home, LongHouse, was built as a case study to exemplify a creative approach to contemporary life. He believes visitors experiencing art in living spaces have a unique learning experience–more meaningful than the best media.
As you may know by now, I don’t do art. And I don’t do museums. But I do LongHouse.
The exhibits in this East Hampton reserve are captivating. For $8 you are able to walk the entire 16 acres and admire the beauty of the property, alongside the artwork. These lush gardens are something else. Talk about green, holy shit.
And the best part about this reserve? You feel as though you have discovered your very own secret garden. Don’t get me wrong, you aren’t alone in wanting a piece of the magic, but you might as well be. The space is so huge that it’s hard to ever feel crowded. There were many instances that I found myself completely alone {with the exception of my exploring buddy aka Aunt Sande}.
Silence is a hard thing to come by now that I live in New York. And for the most part, that is comforting to me. I don’t do well with barren, empty spaces. But this, this was different.
If you are ever lucky enough to find yourself in the Hamptons for the weekend, I suggest taking a wander through Mr. Larsen’s reserve to get behind the scenes {and shrubbery} of a true Hampton property.
Over to you! Would you ever consider visiting LongHouse?