Christmas by Candlelight
A warm, welcoming glow filters through Bernt Heiberg and Bill Cummings’ cosy Hamptons retreat during the holidays
Candles and lanterns abound in Bernt Heiberg and Bill Cummings’ cosy cottage. A pretty wreath adorns the front porch, suggesting the most magical Norwegian-style Christmas awaits family and friends. ‘The season starts on Christmas Eve with our guests arriving from Europe,’ says Bernt, who is from Norway. ‘ We light a big fire, and celebrate all the good things in life.’
After finding themselves working on several projects in the Hamptons, the interior designers decided to buy a rundown property there as a base. ‘Sag Harbor is one of the jewels of the region, as it’s right on the bay,’ says Bernt. ‘The location was perfect as we love boating, but the house needed lots of attention.’ Once the electrics, heating, windows and floors were restored, the couple completely reconfigured the layout and decorated in their trademark elegant yet understated style.
‘We enjoy a natural and relaxed atmosphere that’s been created with care,’ says Bernt. ‘I like a very simply decorated Christmas tree, for example, because it’s beautiful in its own right without too much adornment. I love setting the table for dinner with smart linen napkins, but I’ll also use striking mismatched crockery as well as beautiful old glasses that might have the odd chip in them.’
Bernt and Bill have filled the rest of their home with stylish one-off pieces. ‘It’s all about the individuality that makes an object interesting, rather than everything looking the same,’ explains Bernt. ‘It all adds to the welcoming feel of a home.’
A light Scandinavian palette prevails throughout, apart from in the cabin-style spa. ‘Reclaimed dark wood on the walls makes it cosy, and we’ve added underfloor heating for warmth,’ says Bernt.
The couple are happy to be spending the festivities in their delightful harbour cottage. ‘We adore everything about this house and its location,’ muses Bernt. ‘Although it’s our second base, it really does feel like home.’