House of Influence

Where legacy, design, and global sensibility converge under the visionary care of Antonella Bertello at The Baker House 1650.

Photography courtesy of THE BAKER HOUSE

In a region where prestigious addresses are as common as heirloom hydrangeas, The Baker House 1650 stands alone—equal parts storybook manor and social cornerstone. Tucked into the lush, historic enclave of East Hampton Village, this exquisitely restored estate is more than a luxury inn. It is, quite literally, the house that taste built.

Originally constructed in the 17th century, the property has been reimagined with reverence, transformed into a beacon of elevated hospitality and cultural influence under the stewardship of Antonella Bertello—a woman whose own story reads like

a transatlantic novel of style, vision, and passion.

Born in Peru, and also of Italian nationality, raised in Peru, Key Biscayne, FL and Costa Rica, and educated in Boston, Antonella Bertello brings an international sensibility and refined aesthetic to every- thing she touches. After a successful career in real estate spanning a few continents and in which she is still actively involved, she decided to add something far more personal—buying The Baker House 1650 in 2004 with a dream of creating a destination where timeless architecture, gracious service, and artistic sensibility would converge.

And converge they have.

Under Antonella’s meticulous care, The Baker House 1650 has become one of the most iconic and sought-after addresses in the Hamptons, not just for its visual splendor, but for the world it represents: heritage, discretion, beauty, and influence. With only seven individually styled rooms and suites, the inn retains a sense of intimacy that is both rare and revered—each detail reflecting her commitment to understated elegance and soulful luxury.

Antonella is not a behind-the-scenes hotelier. She is the curator of the experience. From personally selecting the art and antiques that fill each room to hosting cultural events and philanthropic gatherings, her presence is palpable. She has hosted writers, editors, designers, CEOs, and change- makers—not just as guests, but as part of a wider cultural conversation that The Baker House quietly cultivates. Among the most beloved recurring moments are her sig- nature “A Taste of Peru” dinners—held the third Saturday of each month—where the main house is transformed, tastefully and lovingly, into a Peruvian culinary celebration. Guests also gather for Afternoon Tea on the first and third Sunday of each month, served with elegant Morris & Co. china, or enjoy “Aperitivo,” a sunset cocktail hour with a Spanish mixologist who blends her artistry into every pour.

While other properties chase trends, The Baker House defines them. It has been the setting for intimate fashion showcases, charitable garden luncheons, literary salons, and private wellness retreats. In 2025, it again serves as the backdrop for VIVANT’s Summer List event, an invitation-only summer gathering of thought leaders, creatives, and luxury pioneers, because nowhere else captures

the same balance of refinement, warmth, and magnetic influence.

The on-site amenities are equally remarkable: a subterranean spa with a heated lap pool, a eucalyptus steam room, an aromatherapy sauna, an air tub, and restorative treatments that rival top urban wellness centers. The gardens feel like an English dream—wisteria-draped pergolas, manicured hedges, and tucked-away seating areas perfect for morning meditations or twilight wine.

Yet it’s not just the beauty of the place, but the soul be- hind it, that makes The Baker House worthy of its place on This List by VIVANT. Antonella Bertello’s commitment to craft, culture, and community has quietly turned a historic inn into a living, breathing legacy. Her story is proof that passion drives purpose—and that purpose, when executed with grace, becomes timeless.

Tucked behind the main estate, the original carriage house adds another layer of charm and history to the property. Beautifully restored and updated with modern comforts, the carriage house serves as an exclusive retreat for guests seek- ing additional privacy or longer stays. With its own unique design touches and retaining as many features of the original carriage house—large multi-pane French doors where barn doors once were, Dutch doors where horses used to live, hay doors beautifully restored, blue stone floors painted black, and very high ceilings—it mirrors the spirit of the main house while offering a serene, self-contained experience.

It’s the kind of hidden gem that feels like a secret shared only among the inn’s inner circle, making it a favorite for returning guests, extended visits, and VIP weekend escapes.

In East Hampton, where flash is fleeting and influenceis often performative, The Baker House 1650 endures. It is where whispered conversations spark global ideas. Where design and hospitality are elevated to an art form. And where every stay is less about checking in, and more about coming home.