HAMPTON'S RETREAT

Like most, we love to peep inside other people's houses.

To make sure we do it in the most tasteful manner ( of course ), we love magazines such as Elle Decoration, Dwell, Livingetc, Vogue Living and House and Garden, who kindly let us satisfy our curiosity without having to resort to binoculars ( just kidding! ).

The November issue of House and Garden features the Hampton's hideway of actress Gwyneth Paltrow and Coldplay husband Chris Martin, a spacious and light retreat in East Hampton, set within walking distance of the ocean.

Working herself with builder and architectural designer Michael Minkoff, Paltrow went over fabric swatches and design resources while Minkoff transformed the skeleton of the house, adding a few bedrooms so all the close family could stay over.

A fan of minimalistic spaces and cool neutral colours, the whole house is a serene, clutter-free zone. Featuring some pieces of her art collection, the interiors are light and airy and decorated mostly in soft pastel colours, with the exception of daughter Apple's bright pink bedroom, the black powder room, and the spacious black cabinet kitchen.

Our favourites? Besides Tord Boontje's 'Blossom' chandelier and Tom Dixon's 'Mirror Ball' pendants, being nature and fitness fans, what we love best is the beautiful outdoor space, complete with apple orchard, canopied garden hammock, pool house and personal fitness studio for yoga and pilates, which Paltrow makes use of on a daily basis.

( Written by Lola, Photographed by Eric Cahan for House and Garden )