The Nancy Meyers Aesthetic
Recently, there has been a noticeable buzz around the quest to replicate the beloved 'Nancy Meyers' aesthetic, and I find myself understanding the appeal. From the iconic settings in movies like The Parent Trap, The Holiday, Father of The Bride, Somethings Gotta Give, The Intern, & It’s Complicated, it's clear why audiences are captivated. Delving deeper into the allure of this aesthetic, we'll unpack the elements that make up these picturesque spaces, from the charming cottages to the inviting kitchens and gardens depicted on screen. The common threads binding these spaces together are abundant natural light, spacious and inviting interiors, vibrant pops of color in book collections, an artful mix of cushions, display-friendly open shelving, and the presence of fresh produce in the kitchens. What truly sets these spaces apart is their impeccable balance of aesthetic appeal, functionality, and above all, a sense of being genuinely lived-in.
The Living Room
I have admired the Nancy Meyer aesthetic for an extensive period, appreciating how she skillfully embodies the 60/30/10 rule in her designs. This principle dictates that 60% of the room is white, 30% is in a secondary colour and the remaining 10% is in an accent colour.
If you are trying to achieve the look in your home, try stripping everything back and starting with a blank canvas. These homes all have layers, try to incorporate this carefully in your home. For example in the living room, start with white walls, and white sofas, or a light and airy colour - this works as your 60%.
Then, introduce your chosen 30% colour - a light, airy shade like blue can be accentuated through items such as armchairs or rugs. For added texture and visual interest, consider incorporating patterns or stripes. Alternatively, if you are opting for a more neutral rug then think about implementing an upholstered ottoman/ coffee table. This could also have some blue in it or you could decorate it with vases and accents that can also incorporate the colour.
The final 10% should feature an accent colour that complements the overall palette; an earthy orange, for instance, can be infused through subtle decor elements like throws, cushions, and accents to tie the room together seamlessly.
All of the colours should compliment one another, and a great way to incorporate them together is through art. When you have white walls in a house, cabinets, consoles, and art can truly transform the space, turning what may feel clinical into a warm and inviting environment. Utilising different art styles and sizes allows for a dynamic aesthetic, encouraging the blending of various color combinations and textures to enhance the overall atmosphere.
The Dreamiest Kitchens
I long for a Nancy Meyers inspired Kitchen, and I know exactly how I would do it. Bright, airy, grounding, open, and natural are all words I would use to describe these types of kitchens. They are not refined by straight lines, shiny surfaces, and minimalistic views but are inviting, lived-in, practical, and styled to perfection. When envisioning the Nancy Meyers kitchen in your home, think about your lifestyle and utilise that knowledge. For instance, my partner and I enjoy using fresh herbs in our cooking. Instead of merely purchasing and setting them aside, consider integrating them into the design. Place the herbs in weathered terracotta pots, line them up by the window, create a mini garden in a sizable bowl for a charming centerpiece, hang them from shelves, or display them on an aged wooden ladder.
Rather than keeping all your fruit stored on the side where they might not be noticed, consider placing them in a large, decorative fruit bowl to serve as a striking centerpiece on your kitchen island or dining table. If your kitchen features open shelving or cabinets with glass windows, take advantage of this display opportunity. Arrange vintage plates, stylish cookbooks, and transfer items like pastas and flour into attractive jars and boxes that add charm to your space. Showcase baked goods and bread on elegant cake stands or in charming bread bins, while cookies can be artfully presented in decorative jars. Keep your utensils neatly organised in a pretty container alongside essential seasonings like salt, pepper, and oils close to your cooking area.
If you have an island, there are numerous ways to style it. Feel free to experiment with different combinations and incorporate various design elements. Don't hesitate to mix styles and follow the 60/30/10 rule when decorating. Consider adding an accent color to your stools or placing a rug between the island and the cabinets. Ensure your kitchen is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, well-lit, and welcoming. Don’t be afraid to add a table lamp to the counter top or fresh flowers. Remember, the kitchen is the heart of the home and should exude warmth and hospitality just like the other areas of the house.
There are many small things that you can do to start the journey of achieving the ‘Many Meyers’ aesthetic in your kitchen. If you are looking at remodelling your kitchen, I can certainly offer some advise and help you design the perfect kitchen that will suit you and your needs.
The Perfect Slumber
To create an optimal sleeping environment reminiscent of a Nancy Meyers-inspired bedroom, simplicity, layers, and charm are key elements. These spaces are known for their clean, homely aesthetic infused with personal touches and intricate details. In compact rooms, consider a metal framed bed to enhance the sense of space and intentionality. For more spacious and airy bedrooms, an upholstered headboard may be more suitable. Opt for a neutral headboard and adorn the bed with an array of light-hued cushions varying in size and pattern, adding a subtle yet distinctive flair to the decor scheme.
Layer the bed with a throw or two, ensuring they are kept plain yet complementary to the colors in the cushions. The bedrooms exude charm and are best accentuated with antique or vintage accessories. Consider adding large lamps on either side of the bed, accompanied by a couple of antique books, a vintage alarm clock, and perhaps a tube of aesthetically pleasing hand cream placed thoughtfully on the stack of books.
An antique or light wooden chest of drawers can add a touch of elegance to your bedroom decor. These pieces can be beautifully complemented by layering them with art or mirrors leaning against the wall, a large lamp, and a tray for your perfumes or skincare products. To anchor the space, consider placing a large rug in the center of the room or just underneath the bed. For added charm and functionality, introduce a slipper chair or low armchair if space permits, which can also serve as a pop of color in your design scheme.
It is safe to say that all of these films have an aesthetic that many of us admire. If you look at them all carefully, you can see how they come together and how you can achieve the look. Maytree Interiors can help with full Interior Design, Virtual Design or just styling. We would love to help you achieve the look you are aiming for. Just get in touch with bryony@maytreeinteriors.co.uk and we can discuss exactly how we can help you!