If These Walls Could Talk! – The Village Latch Inn, Southampton Village

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As if plucked straight out of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, this inn is an impressively accurate time capsule of sorts, bringing you back to Gatsby’s era in American history via restored historical buildings, sublime antique furnishings and above all, just plain Gatsby-esque vibe. Located just two blocks from the main street in town, nonetheless set on a secluded five-acre estate with a deliciously private feel, staying here allows you the absolute best of both worlds.

Need some down time? Why not sip a cold drink on the porch or take a refreshing dip in the pool? Go ahead. Lollygag the day away.

Getting restless? A scant few steps will bring you to some of Southampton’s finest dining spots, cultural venues and plenty of boutique shops.

Stately tall hedges, sprawling lawns and aristocratic gates greet you, and immediately set the mood. Inside this property’s mansion, (circa 1900) you will find gads of accumulated collections and antiques gleaned from many years worth of global travels, all reflecting the eclectic tastes of the artist/owners Marta White (also an actor and a writer) and her husband Martin(who worked in commercial films).

Twenty-four well appointed rooms immediately captivate, complete with leopard-print cushioned chairs, lame threaded pillows and loads of unique furnishings such as Burmese puppets, masks from New Guinea, Tibetan rugs and Balinese furniture. Each room is entirely different yet hugged tightly together by common warmth, comfort and beauty. Spacious parlors, fireplaces, balconies, decks and skylights about, make for finishing touches. Near the main house an additional twelve rooms include duplexes with private decks. Also on property, the Terry Cottage has ten bedrooms and three living/dining rooms with fireplaces and many private decks.

Finally, The Homestead buildings were themselves rescued and restored, then moved to the property from the former Merrill Lynch Estate. With two wings, thirteen rooms and a Victorian glass Greenhouse in between; you have lots to choose from. In addition there are several villas to rent with private access. The hotel is also owned and operated by artists who have a flair for international ambiance. A lavish continental breakfast is served in both their dining area or outside on the patio, itself nestled in serene and beautiful gardens. A heated pool and tennis court allows for activity right there on the grounds
An unexpected treat is the Latch’s continuous roster of celebrity visitors.

Here, there’s just no telling who you might bump into. Village Latch visitors have included the likes of Vice Presidents Al Gore and Joe Biden, Ethel Kennedy, Ann Hathaway, Fran Dresher, Isabella Rossellini, Carly Simon, Dennis Quaid and most recently Kate Hudson. The inn has hosted guests for celebrity weddings from the Kennedy/Lawford wedding to NBC’s Today host, Matt Lauer. Movies are shot here as well including productions by HBO, ACT Productions, Polo Ralph Lauren, Vogue magazine, Victoria’s Secret, House & Garden and more.

This makes for a most memorable stay. After all, sometime don’t you just want to be swept off your feet?