Gurney’s Montauk Resort and Seawater Spa has revealed its refreshed design by HBA San Francisco across its lobby, two new F&B concepts and The Firepit outdoor gathering space.
The design is characterised by warm woods, woven elements and polished accents, crafting a modern luxury experience, while light, texture and materiality establish a dynamic atmosphere evoking the sun and sea. In addition, architectural elements are enhanced by the delicate detailing of handcrafted materials and a rich colour palette drawn from the natural surroundings.
“We drew upon the endless beauty found in nature and the region’s maritime heritage, while embracing the energy of the future, to celebrate Montauk’s organic landscape, vibrant past and local culture,” says HBA San Francisco Associate Michelle Tran. “Our design feels as effortless as the ocean breeze, where every element works in synchrony to ensure guests feel genuinely connected to the locale.”
In the lobby, muted ocean hues, sandy neutrals and deep grounding tones of the cliffs and shoreline offer a sense of serenity, while an art wall exhibits historical ephemera tying the hotel’s legacy to its modern present. Furniture, anchored by custom area rugs, exudes elegance and repose with upholstered pieces that invite relaxation. A combination of plush textiles and tactile surfaces feels approachable yet refined.
Sleek metal embellishments along the architectural beams lend a sophisticated touch, while the sheen of handmade tiles evokes sunlight reflecting on the ocean’s surface, fostering a seamless flow between the interior and exterior.
Inspired by the spirit of the sea, Gigi’s Montauk – a dining experience specialising in coastal flavours – introduces navy blue tones and nautical finishes. Richly hued millwork in a high-gloss finish envelops guests in refined comfort while grounding the palette with a moody sophistication. A coffered ceiling in natural wood spans overhead, its geometry characteristic of luxury marine interiors. Inlaid metal accents catch the light with a discreet shimmer, adding visual rhythm and a sense of movement above.
At the dining room’s centre, an expansive channel-tufted banquette wrapped in caramel leather extends visual warmth and tactility. Fluted wood panels encircle the central seating group, forming an expressive backdrop for clean stone-topped tables. Integrated lighting embedded within the millwork casts a gentle ambient glow to enhance the layered textures.
“We sought to bring the luxury yacht experience to the shores of Montauk in our design for Gigi’s by merging timeless craftsmanship with a contemporary edge,” says HBA San Francisco Senior Designer Joelle Henning. “The signature deep navy blue creates an atmosphere of quiet sophistication, while subtle maritime touches like polished brass detailing elevate the overall aesthetic with a layer of opulence, making the space feel both intimate and indulgent.”
Also taking cues from the ocean, Dune Café & Lounge presents a more casual yet elevated experience for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Seafoam greens and sandy neutrals recall hushed colours of the sea, balanced with sleek design elements. Woven light fixtures, natural stone surfaces and airy fabrics combine in a textural interplay of understated elegance with residential ease.
Located on the expansive main deck, the renovated fire pits serve as the centrepiece of the outdoor experience, backdropped by sweeping ocean views. A central pergola provides shelter, while a new VIP fire pit area offers a luxurious enclave with cozy seating and soft lighting perfect for intimate conversations beneath starlit skies. Materials like driftwood, stone and metal maintain the resort’s integration with its landscape through nature-inspired warmth.
