5 decorating tricks we’ve learned from Reese Witherspoon's gorgeous California home

Without a doubt, Reese Witherspoon is one of Hollywood's most enduringly popular stars. 

The actress has starred in  some of the most beloved films and TV shows of the last two decades – Legally Blonde, Sweet Home Alabama and Big Little Lies spring to mind, but now the global star is turning her attention to her one true love – interiors. Reese has already made her mark in the residential interior design world with Netflix’s new Home Edit series.

Unsurpringly, Reese Witherspoon has an impressive property portfolio, but the actress, producer, and entrepreneur retreats to her Cape Cod-style home in Pacific Palisades when she’s in need of an escape from her many ventures. 

When it comes to architecture, Cape Cod house style – just like the actress herself  –is as all-American as a fresh slice of apple pie.

Dating back to New England during the 17th century, this classic style proves that keeping it simple is anything but boring. 

See how Reese Witherspoon has transformed this family home into her very own Sweet Home California...

Take a tour below – and when you're done, hop on over to our page dedicated to the world's best homes for more.

1. A relaxed New England-style porch is the star of the show

A front porch should be an extension of your home, a place to relax in during the summer months, and Reese has transformed hers into a haven of style and comfort – and she often posts pictures of herself on social media relaxing, reading and hanging out with family and her beloved pooches Lou and Minnie Pearl. 

A monochrome palette of neutrals mixed in with dark colors has become a signature statement in her home. It's an enduring color combination that will no doubt stand the test of time. 

• See: Front porch ideas – 20 ways to create a strong first impression

2. A classic Shaker kitchen never dates

Simple yet striking, the look of a Shaker kitchen is timeless. 

So where does Shaker style come from? The routes of this popular 
design stem from the 18th-century US religious movement of the same name – they believed in simplicity and function without embellishment or decorative 
features, and they structured their homes as such. 

Today, these beginnings 
have been built on and Shaker design does offer variety in terms of color 
and finishing touches but the basics have stayed the same – stick to these 
and you will achieve the look with ease. 

3. You can evoke peace and harmony in a work space

Although the home office needs to be practical, that doesn’t mean it can’t be inviting. Think about using color and pattern to create an attractive work environment – just as Reese has done – but ensure the scheme remains calm to aid concentration.

The actress has chosen blue – her favourite color, we think – to highlight an accent piece of furniture. Because cool tones aren’t overpowering – in fact they often feel like they are receding – they often help a small room appear to have more space, which can make them a great choice. It appears that Reese certainly knows a thing or two about interior design. 

• See: Home office ideas – that are smart, practical and stylish

4. It's vital to unite your space with a simple color palette

A fresh blue and white scheme may be a classic seaside combo but its popular appeal has spread far from the shore.

Blue and white lends itself well to a cool coastal style or country cottage look so go for furniture in light or bleached wood or distressed finishes in whites or grays.   

Finally, it is important to know your hues. The warm and cool hues of blue can stir-up varying moods – light blues can evoke the freshness of sea, sky and summer air and can encourage productivity. But watch out for dramatic, darker shades as they can dampen your mood and appetite. 

We think Reese has got it just right in this landing space. 

5. If you love a certain look, run with it

Never one to do things by halves, the pale blue palette continues into Reese's garden. And why shouldn't it? If you are particularly enamored by a certain color, pattern or interior style, use it with aplomb. 

And, since she lives in sunny California, it's only natural that the A-lister has a backyard with lush green foliage and a huge swimming pool.