Search
McKinely Bungalow, White bungalow home

Creating a Dream Bungalow

Interior designer Robert McKinley and his wife created a dream bungalow for rent with design pieces to purchase.

By

Share

Interior Designer Robert Mckinley and His Wife Created a Dream Bungalow for Rent With Design Pieces to Purchase

Kate Nauta is from Oregon and her husband, Robert McKinley, is from New York. Both, however, are passionate about the ocean and beach culture, and first met in Montauk—a small but chic beach town located at the farthest tip of the South Fork peninsula of Long Island—when Nauta was only 18.

In this very special place they were married; the couple also worked on a beloved project here that opened its doors in June 2018.

“We were inspired to create a residence that truly feels like a dream home, ideal for relaxed beach getaways,” says McKinley, who leads New York-based interior design firm Studio Robert McKinley.

“To me, summertime is always about entertaining with friends at home, so we wanted to collaborate with our favorite artists, makers and manufacturers to produce a space that would bring people together.”

California Faucets, Cle Tile, Domingue, Floyd, Hem, Reform and Rejuvenation are some of the brands whose products adorn the house that is available for rent.

Designed as a “fully shoppable residence”—every piece inside can be purchased—the intimate bungalow that was originally built in 1978 is spread over 1,900 square feet and comprises three bedrooms, two bathrooms and open living areas with a kitchen, dining room, living room and library, as well as an attached one-bedroom apartment.

Every corner was designed to make up a warm atmosphere. The clean white palette combines with natural oak floors, exposed beams, a plaster fireplace, sleek fixtures and vintage pieces. Textures were introduced throughout by the Studio Robert McKinley team—in charge of all interior design—with rattan furniture, a Moroccan daybed with pillows and linen curtains, among other features.

Two sources of inspiration were key to the project: “Montauk’s wild and salt-weathered coastline and the casual elegance of Europe’s seaside towns, where centuries-old cultures exude rich color and patterns,” says McKinley.

Created with a sense of approachable luxury, the contemporary bungalow also has outdoor spaces including a mahogany deck, a sprawling lawn with seagrass and white hydrangeas for an Italian garden feel, and a barbecue area with a dining table in the backyard. Located only a five-minute drive to the popular beach Ditch Plains, the property invites guests to take one of the Shinola bikes available at the house and explore the surroundings at their own pace before spending the evening with family or friends.

mckinleybungalow.com

Photographs: Courtesy Of Nicole Franzen

RELATED TAGS

30 Portuguese Bend Road: The Historic Ernest Hahn Estate Hits the Market

Nestled within the exclusive enclave of Rolling Hills, 30 Portuguese Bend Road boasts 5 private acres, award-winning vineyards, and sweeping views of the Los Angeles Basin. This remarkable estate, with its roots traced back to real estate pioneer Ernest Hahn, showcases a meticulously designed 6,200-square-foot residence, offering luxurious living spaces, a pristine outdoor oasis, and a connection to architectural pedigree that discerning buyers truly appreciate.
  • September 20, 2023
  • Jenn Thornton

Rohn Boyd’s Path from Construction to Luxury Real Estate

Rohn Boyd, a Kauai agent with a deep-rooted connection to the Beach Cities, found his calling after a period of reflection during his battle with cancer. Previously known for crafting opulent residences on Kauai, he redirected his career towards real estate, a decision he remains content with today.
  • September 20, 2023
  • Constance Dunn

The Rebirth of Santa Monica’s Iconic Georgian Hotel

The iconic Georgian Hotel in Santa Monica reopened its doors in April, unveiling a stunning transformation led by Fettle Design. With a rich history that hosted Hollywood legends like Marilyn Monroe, the hotel's restoration, guided by BLVD Hospitality, gracefully balances its storied past with modern hospitality.
  • August 23, 2023
  • Karine Monié

Sterling-Huddleson Architecture’s the Edge Residence in Pebble Beach

The Edge, a stunning contemporary home located in the picturesque community of Pebble Beach, California, is a masterful creation by Sterling-Huddleson Architecture. The result is a breathtaking residence that seamlessly blends advanced building technology and timeless contemporary design.
  • August 23, 2023
  • Jenn Thornton

Of Possible Unveils Stunning Loft Living Concept in Williamsburg

Explore the soon-to-be-completed building at 103 Grand Street, Williamsburg, offering three units designed to capture the spirit of this historic area. Led by Rise Development and architect Vincent Appel of Of Possible, each unit boasts its own outdoor space and a seamless connection between interior and exterior.
  • July 13, 2023
  • Karine Monié
Sign Up for DIGS Newsletters