House of Rohl stylist Fiona Gould shares her tips for recreating the Nancy Meyers aesthetic in your home.
The enduring influence of Nancy Meyers continues to shape trends, giving rise to distinct subcategories in both design and fashion. Filmmaker Nancy is known for the rom-coms that we love, such as It’s Complicated, Something’s Gotta Give and Father of the Bride, all featuring the cosy, warm and homely kitchens Nancy she is also known for.
Nancy Meyers homes have the clever ability of feeling luxurious, spacious and elegant yet not pretentious at all. They feel incredibly welcoming like a warm hug. It’s less about the appearance and following trends, but more about the emotion this look evokes.
These spaces have a luxurious classic cottage feel, almost similar to how some classic Hamptons looks have evolved here in Australia over time, but the beauty of these spaces is how they feel genuinely lived in and embrace the imperfect, with an inviting, layered mix of traditional, timeless elements that make the home feel like it’s always been this way.
Most spaces are quite neutral with layers of white and the key to prevent this from feeling too cold is all in the layers. The more classic details and textural finishes you can incorporate, the better. Think linen blinds, marble, aged timber, vintage ceramics, wall panelling, shaker details on cabinets, handmade ceramic tiles, intricate wallpaper moments, traditional cabinet pulls, rugs and vintage pendant lights.
It’s all about embracing the imperfect. Aged details like statement traditional shape taps in a brass or nickel finish that patina over time instantly add warmth and character to a kitchen.
For me, there’s three must-have items that exude classic luxury in the kitchen: an extra large farmhouse style white ceramic sink, a statement kitchen faucet with a classic form such as the Shaws by Perrin & Rowe Pendleton Kitchen Mixer, and an oversized freestanding gas stove. These items are always worth the splurge.
Open shelving or see-through glass cabinetry are really embraced in this look and it’s a great way to make the space feel beautifully layered. Use these to display a mix of mostly neutral vintage finds and kitchenware; a stack of beautiful bowls, jugs, glassware, canisters, books etc. We’re not aiming for a minimalist look at all here, we want our treasures on display. A stack of old chopping boards leaning against the backsplash, an old vessel filled with herbs or flowers, an oversized fruit bowl on the island, bread and vegetables stored in bowls and baskets on the bench, art on the walls, timber cooking utensils in a canister, pans and pots hanging on display: these are the layers that make this look sing.
Upcycling vintage finds is one of the best ways to add touches of this look into your own space. My favourite vintage items to look for are lampshades. You can easily swap over a shade on one of your existing lamps or pendant lights and these really add so much character to a space. Vintage rattan or timber pieces are also my go-to antique finds for styling spaces. You can’t beat the personality this rich texture can brings. Think trays, baskets, stools, picture frames, chopping boards etc. Small antique artworks with a fruit or food motif are also a perfect decorative accessory. If you can’t find any at an op shop, I like to download a vintage-inspired print online, get it printed and place it in a beautiful secondhand frame.
I hope this inspires you to embrace the Nancy Meyers aesthetic in your home for your next interior journey.
