The Magic Behind Nancy Meyers’ Interiors: 5 Things You Can Do
Ever wondered what makes Nancy Meyers’ movie interiors so unforgettable? Whether it’s Something’s Gotta Give, Father of the Bride, It’s Complicated, or What Women Want, the homes in these films often steal the show from the A-list actors inhabiting them.
The genius of Nancy Meyers interiors isn’t what most people think. While many label them all as “coastal grandma,” her film sets actually span a remarkable range of styles. From the rich, masculine modern spaces in What Women Want to the cozy English cottage in The Holiday, to the traditional Hampton’s mansion in Something’s Gotta Give – each space has its own distinct personality.
Let’s break down the five achievable elements that make these spaces so irresistible (plus one reality check):
1. The Art of Mood Lighting
These homes feature an almost uncountable number of lamps, creating that perfect warm, inviting glow. Here’s an insider secret: these aren’t real homes – they’re filmed on sound stages without natural light.
Every source of illumination is carefully placed to create that cozy atmosphere. The takeaway? Layer in more lamps and sconces than you think necessary, and favor warm light over bright white overhead lighting.
2. The Anti-Minimalist Approach
These spaces excel at looking thoroughly lived-in, filled with books, picture frames, and personal touches. They’re the dictionary definition of “curated” – every room feels like a carefully collected story of someone’s life.
To capture this feeling, incorporate family photos, stack beloved books as decor, add plants or flowers, and most importantly, seek out unique thrifted pieces or family hand-me-downs that add character.
3. The Strategic Rug Layout
Every room features an expansive rug (though never wall-to-wall carpeting). While the movie sets often use custom pieces, you can achieve a similar effect by starting with a large natural fiber rug like jute or seagrass and layering smaller, more expensive rugs on top.
4. The Layered Window Treatments
Notice how every window features full-length curtains hung high, usually paired with shades underneath. To recreate this look, hang your curtains higher and wider than the window frame, and layer in simple Roman or bamboo shades for added texture.
5. The Heart of the Home: The Kitchen
These kitchens always feature a prominent island that serves as a conversation hub – just like in real homes. They’re styled with hanging copper pots, extensive cookbook collections, and rows of fresh herbs. While the casual croissant-making scenes might be fantasy, many of these welcoming kitchen elements are achievable.
The Reality Check
Here’s the truth: some aspects of Nancy Meyers’ interiors are pure Hollywood magic. No amount of decorating can recreate those sweeping ocean views or massive bay windows if your home’s architecture doesn’t support it. Those stunning flower arrangements?
They’re likely $600 studio props. It’s important to remember these sets have unlimited budgets and professional designers – the key is capturing the feeling while keeping expectations realistic.
If you’re inspired by these interiors, check out Grace and Frankie for another masterclass in set design. The beach house in that show offers similar levels of interior inspiration, even if you’re just watching for the decor.
Looking for more interior inspiration? You might want to read 9 lessons I learned from touring designers homes.
