5 Steps to a Nancy Meyers – Inspired Kitchen
Step into the world of Nancy Meyers films, and you’ll find yourself immersed in stunningly designed kitchens that exude warmth, style, and sophistication. From “Something’s Gotta Give” to “The Holiday,” Meyers has mastered the art of creating kitchen spaces that are not just sets but characters in their own right. Discover how to effortlessly bring Nancy Meyers’ cinematic charm into your kitchen with our straightforward five-step guide.
In this blog post, we’ll explore why Nancy Meyers movie kitchens are so inspiring and provide five actionable steps to achieve the same feel in your own kitchen.
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
1. Lived-In Charm and Personal Touches
Meyers’ kitchens are filled with personal touches and lived-in charm, making them feel warm and inviting. To add character to your kitchen:
- Add Plants: Bring life to your kitchen by incorporating potted plants/herbs or fresh flowers. Place them on countertops, windowsills, or hanging planters to add a touch of greenery and freshness to the space.
- Cookbooks and Pots/Pans: Display your favorite collection of cookbooks and cookware on open shelves or countertops. Not only are they functional, but they also add visual interest and personality to the room.
- Pretty and Functional Decor Displayed on the Counters: Embrace the philosophy of Nancy Meyers by not trying to hide away all your kitchen necessities. Keep them out for display, filling your countertops with useful tools and appliances that are both pretty and practical. Meyers’ kitchens often feature countertops adorned with items such as cutting boards, canisters filled with utensils, and decorative bowls brimming with fresh produce. Keep frequently used oils, spices, and ingredients within easy reach by storing them in decorative jars or bottles on the countertop. This not only adds texture and color but also makes cooking more convenient. By incorporating these elements into your own kitchen decor, you not only add visual interest but also ensure that everything you need is within easy reach, making meal preparation a breeze.
2. Timeless Elegance and Classic Design
Meyers’ kitchens feature classic design elements such as subway tile backsplashes, farmhouse sinks, and traditional cabinetry. In addition to those design elements, there are decorative accents that elevate the space. The wonderful thing about her style is that is it attainable no matter if you are renovating or if you are simply decorating. To achieve the same feel in your kitchen with either design or decor:
- Subway Tile Backsplash: Consider adding a subway tile backsplash to give your kitchen a timeless and classic look. Opt for neutral colors like white or light gray for a fresh and clean aesthetic.
- Farmhouse Sink: Install a farmhouse sink for a touch of rustic charm and functionality. These deep, apron-front sinks are not only practical but also add a charming focal point to the kitchen.
- Decorative Accents: Elevate your kitchen decor with elegant and classic accessories such as vases, pottery, cake stands, art and decorative trays. These accents add a touch of sophistication to your kitchen countertops and shelves. Incorporate vintage-inspired pieces for a nostalgic nod to Meyers’ timeless style, and display them strategically to create visual interest and elevate the overall ambiance of the space.
3. Harmonious Color Palette
Choose a harmonious color palette that reflects the warmth and sophistication of Nancy Meyers’ kitchens.
- Neutral Color Palette: Creamy whites, warm beiges, and subtle grays as the foundation, and incorporate accents of muted pastels or earthy hues to add depth and interest. Coordinate your color scheme across all elements of the kitchen, including walls, cabinetry, countertops, and/or decor accessories, to create a cohesive and inviting space that feels like it’s straight out of a Nancy Meyers film.
- Vibrant Color Palette: Break away from convention and infuse your kitchen with vibrant color choices inspired by Nancy Meyers’ designs. While neutral tones like creamy whites and warm beiges are classic staples, don’t be afraid to introduce pops of color to add personality and charm to your space. Consider incorporating rich hues like deep blues, lush greens, or warm terracottas to create depth and visual interest. Whether through painted cabinetry, colorful backsplashes, or statement accents, embracing a vibrant color palette can breathe new life into your kitchen and evoke the lively spirit of Meyers’ cinematic creations. Coordinate your color choices thoughtfully across different elements of the kitchen to maintain harmony and balance, resulting in a space that feels both inviting and stylish.
4. Warmth and Welcoming Atmosphere
Nancy Meyers’ kitchens are known for their inviting ambiance, characterized by soft lighting, warm color palettes, and cozy vibes. To recreate this feel in your own kitchen:
- Lamplight: Create a cozy atmosphere by adding soft lamplight to your kitchen. Consider installing pendant lights over the island or adding a table lamp to a countertop or side table.
- Candles or Candle Warmer: Much like lamplight, candles and candle warmers make everything feel cozy. Depending on whether your candles are scented, they can also evoke warmth through their smells.
- Pendants and Sconces: Choose lighting that provide ample illumination for meal preparation and dining while also serving as eye-catching focal points in your kitchen decor. Additionally, consider under-cabinet lighting to brighten workspaces and enhance visibility while cooking. Under cabinet lighting is now available with a battery operated feature.
5. Embrace the Heart of the Home
Above all, Meyers’ kitchens are the heart of the home, where families gather, meals are shared, and memories are made. To embrace the heart of your own kitchen:
- Create Inviting Seating Areas: Designate a cozy seating area in your kitchen where family and friends can gather to chat, relax, or enjoy a meal together. This could be a built-in banquette, a row of counter stools, or a cozy breakfast nook.
- Set the Scene for Intimate Gatherings: Use your kitchen as a space for intimate gatherings and entertaining. Set the scene with candles, fresh flowers, and music to create a welcoming and festive atmosphere. Fill cake stands and domes with baked or store bought treats so family and friends feel welcome to enjoy.
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Sourcing for Our Kitchen Decor and Similar Items:
- Wooden Tray
- Plant Ceramic Pot
- Honey Dispenser
- Marble Salt/Pepper Shakers
- Teak Wooden Cooking Utensils
- Candle Warmer
- Glass Straw Holder (Similar)
- Dish Towels
- Food Canisters (Similar)
- Automatic Foam Soap Dispenser
- Sconce 1
- Sconce 2
- Cutting Board (Similar but smaller)
- Dish Drying Stone (Similar)
- Cake Stand (Different but a pretty option)
- Utensil Holder (Different)
Nancy Meyers movie kitchens are not just sets; they are sources of inspiration that demonstrate the transformative power of design and decor. Her style is made possible by what seems like an easy to follow formula and can be achieved simply in any home. This is mostly because she invokes a feeling with how she designs/decorates. By incorporating elements of warmth, elegance, functionality, lived-in charm, and personalization, you can achieve the same feel in your own kitchen and create a space that is not only beautiful but also inviting and welcoming. So channel your inner Nancy Meyers, and transform your kitchen into a cinematic dream that will inspire and delight for years to come.
Not sure if I am allowed or if it is unappreciated to voice my honest opinion as although it is Very Pretty how-ever all the decor and stuff every where ( 15 pcs in one small area) over shadows the beauty of the room itself and makes the room look busy thus smaller. ” I” have come to believe that less is more as more can easily and quickly become clutter. — I do love your style!
Great read!
Thanks for ana amazing blog!
Beautiful kitchen and wonderful decor as usual. However, not all of us live in big houses with expansive kitchens and living areas. We make do in tiny galley kitchens in small plain ranch houses on small budgets. I could enjoy looking at Nancy’s interiors all day but still live in my “real” home.
I would like more information on the small boat picture.
Would love to know cabinet paint color and backsplash
I agree with Cindy. I get alot of pleasure looking at all the beautiful, big wonderful designs but I too live in a small ranch with a galley kitchen. Some of the items so casually included in these ‘spaces” are no way affordable for most of us. We all do the best we can. I’ve always shopped carefully, used family heirlooms and thrifted items long before it was the thing to do. It would be nice to see ideas for small plain homes lacking character. I’d be happy to send you a couple pics of my plain old little house!!