The Hedges Inn, a historic cornerstone of East Hampton’s heritage and hospitality, is set to undergo a full-scale restoration led by acclaimed interior designer and author David Netto, bringing his distinctive voice and East End roots to the project. Netto was handpicked by Sarah Wetenhall, Owner and CEO of the property, for his sophisticated yet irreverent style and deep personal connection to the area.
David Netto is an interior designer and writer whose work merges classical design with fresh perspectives. In addition to his interiors, he is a respected voice in the world of architecture and design, contributing to The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Cabana, and currently pens the “Case Studies” column for Town & Country. He is the author of monographs on François Catroux and Stephen Sills, and most recently, on architect Rosario Candela. In 2023, David Netto—a self-titled book celebrating two decades of his work—was published by Vendome. His interiors have been featured in Vogue, Elle Decor, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, House & Garden, Town & Country, and Veranda.
Widely recognized for her revitalization of The Colony Palm Beach, Sarah Wetenhall brings a modern sensibility to the restoration of iconic properties, honoring their history while positioning them for the future. Her collaboration with Netto signals a thoughtful and design-forward approach to the next chapter of The Hedges.
The restoration will be a considered evolution—not a reinvention. Every element, from architectural details to the guest experience, will be reimagined with care and purpose. Renowned landscape architect Ed Hollander will lead the redesign of the gardens and grounds, while FGS Designs and Fleetwood, McMullan and Sanabria together will serve as project architects.
“The Hedges is core to East Hampton’s identity,” said Wetenhall. “Our goal is to preserve its soul while updating it for today’s traveler: discerning, design-minded, and seeking a deeper sense of place. We’re not changing what it is; we’re helping it become the best version of itself. I selected David for his rare ability to blend intellect, emotion, and aesthetics—qualities that deeply resonate with the spirit of The Hedges. His roots in the community and his singular design voice make him an ideal partner in this evolution. I’m excited to work alongside him, and with the extraordinary talents of Ed Hollander, to breathe new life into this beloved property.”
“Watching Sarah’s success with The Colony in Palm Beach, I realized what a sense of place she has—both respect for it, and a nose for inventing what’s needed to make a landmark even more beloved and relevant,” said Netto. “I cheered when I heard she had acquired The Hedges Inn, one of my home town of East Hampton’s most visible landmarks, and beamed when I got the call to help make this place an even bigger part of life in the village. Her plan is to make The Hedges and Swifty’s something stylish, but still familiar; my hope is to design the rooms and lift the building with warmth and atmosphere that makes everyone wonder why it wasn’t always that way. Come and see us in the spring!”
Construction will begin in fall 2025, with the newly redesigned Hedges Inn set to reopen in spring 2026.
