THE PEARL PALACE
Live Beautifully
A Saltbox Dream on Gardiners Bay
Tucked away in the storied enclave of East Hampton's Springs—where artists once roamed and the bay whispers secrets only the locals understand—there's a house that feels like it floated in from a dream. They call it the Pearl Palace, and like any good nickname, it says a lot without saying too much.
This is not your average Hamptons home. Built entirely from the ground up by its imaginative owner, in collaboration with the thoughtful minds at Plot 1 and the master craftsmanship of James Bulgin, the Pearl Palace is what happens when minimalism meets whimsy with a wink.
“It’s my version of minimalism,” the homeowner says, “but with classic Sasha whimsical moments”—a nod to interior designer Sasha Bikoff, whose work is known for its unapologetically bold, playful aesthetic. Bikoff, a celebrated New York-based designer with a flair for merging eras, is famous for combining French Rococo, 1960s Space Age, and Memphis Milano influences in unforgettable ways. But here, in this bayside retreat, her signature whimsy takes on a softer, subtler tone—proof that even maximalists can master restraint.
The structure itself is a modern take on the traditional saltbox silhouette, a timeless shape that feels entirely at home on the edge of Gardiners Bay. Inside, it’s all clean lines and calm tones. Walls are Japanese plaster, a textural backdrop that softens the space and glows in the East End light. Underfoot, white oak floors stretch out like driftwood, washed in the palette of a morning tide.
Every detail inside feels intentional, like it was placed by the wind but styled by a very chic breeze. The house is minimalist, yes, but never austere. Think: sculptural lighting, hand-formed ceramics, breezy linen, and unexpected moments of delight (a little vintage here, a splash of something surreal there).
Outside, it’s all about the view. The bay sparkles with an artist’s touch, and from the right perch, it almost looks painted on. From sunrise swims to golden-hour spritzes, the rhythm of life here slows to something more poetic.
And while the Pearl Palace may look like a serene sanctuary, it’s also a home that’s lived in and loved—a space where summer is celebrated in every corner. It's where long weekends turn into longer stays, where doors stay open, and barefoot is the dress code.
Fun fact: The home’s elegant yet relaxed tone is no accident. The Springs has long been a haven for creative spirits—from Jackson Pollock to today's design-forward minds. Here, inspiration isn’t just welcomed—it’s expected. So if you find yourself in The Springs and spot a saltbox glowing just a little more golden than the rest, you’ve likely discovered the Pearl Palace. And while it may be rooted in East Hampton tradition, it’s also something entirely new: a modern-day escape that makes room for both less and more—with just enough whimsy to keep you smiling.
