One of the Hamptons’ most esteemed lodging establishments was recently named among the finest places to stay not just on the East End, or across New York State, but in the world.
In a press statement last week, the Baker House 1650 (181 Main St., East Hampton, 631-324-4081) announced it was crowned “Best House, Villa or Serviced Apartment” in North America by Condé Nast Johansens, a global collection of luxury hotels, spas and venues and leading reference guide for traveling.
(Photo courtesy of the Baker House 1650)
“Recognized for its timeless charm, exquisite hospitality, and design that seamlessly blends 17th-century heritage with modern elegance,” the statement says, “The Baker House 1650 has become synonymous with refined Hamptons living. The award — one of the most coveted in luxury travel — places the historic East Hampton property among the finest accommodations in the world.”
For over 40 years, the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence have honored the very best in independent luxury hotels, spas and venues worldwide. Each winner is selected through a rigorous combination and criteria of guest feedback, expert (and unannounced) inspection reports and online voting by discerning travelers.
(Photo courtesy of the Baker House 1650)
“It’s an incredible honor to receive this global recognition from Condé Nast Johansens,” says Antonella Bertello, owner of the esteemed bed and breakfast for the past two decades. “Our team is deeply committed to creating an experience that captures the beauty, history and heart of East Hampton. This award is a reflection of that dedication. We’re incredibly grateful and very happy, because it does take a village.”
Throughout the Baker House, modern amenities meet Old World character, with clever design elements built into stunningly chic ambiance. Boasting seven rooms, including two suites located within a two-story, uber private carriage house situated in the back of the 1.73-acre property, bedrooms range from 250 to about 850 square-feet. All rooms are uniquely outfitted with William Morris textiles and wallpapers and cozy Frette linens, guest slippers and robes. The inn features eight fireplaces and a wood-burning stove in the main house, with five in the carriage house. Amenities include an on-site, state-of-the-art spa facility, complete with jacuzzi, sauna, steam shower and counter-current swimming pool.
(Photos courtesy of The Baker House 1650)
Originally, the house was constructed in 1648 by a sea captain, Daniel Howe. Two years later (in 1650), he sold it to Thomas Baker, one of East Hampton’s original founders, who turned the house into Baker’s Tavern. For hundreds of years, under the ownership of several different individuals, the building served as a community hub until 1911, when then-owner James Harper Poor undertook a major renovation, and gave the house its present-day look and overall feel, boasting Cotswold-inspired architecture and heavily drawing inspiration from classic English country gardens.
Bertello and her small but mighty team are pros at making luxury livable (and accessible) always keeping their guests’ privacy and safety in the forefront of their priorities, while at the same time maintaining the house’s original function as a community-focused hub at its core. Year-round events include afternoon tea and aperitivio hours for both guests and members of the public.
“It’s an incredible honor to receive this global recognition from Condé Nast Johansens,” says Antonella Bertello, owner of The Baker House 1650. “Our team is deeply committed to creating an experience that captures the beauty, history and heart of East Hampton. This award is a reflection of that dedication.”
