There’s nothing quite like the nostalgia that comes from simply talking about The Holiday, Something the Heart Desires, and many of our other favorite films from the legendary filmmaker, so it’s no surprise that we’re looking to Nancy Meyers’ films for our fall living room ideas.
After all, fall is the best time of year to gather around the fireplace and enjoy cozy conversation, and some of the sweetest moments in Nancy Meyers’ films are highlighted by the setting of a living room that’s effortlessly staged and inviting on every level.
If the rustling of leaves beneath your feet puts you in the mood for fresh fall decor, brew yourself a warm cup of cocoa and immerse yourself in some of our favorite Nancy Meyers-inspired living rooms that are perfect for autumnal moments.
5 Nancy Meyers-Inspired Living Rooms for Fall
From the homes that captured our hearts to the fleeting seasons between romantic, hilarious and iconic scenes, the interior design inspiration you can find in these movies is numerous. Here are some Nancy Meyers-inspired living rooms for fall that we love.
1. Combine comfort with a touch of luxury
Brad Ramsey Interior Design / Paige Rumore Photography
(Photo credit: Paige Rumore Photography for Brad Ramsey Interiors)
One of the reasons Nancy Meyers-style living rooms are so well suited to fall is because they redefine socializing. With soft grays, tactile materials, and sofas all oriented toward the fireplace, this living room by Brad Ramsey perfectly brings us into the season.
“Nancy Meyers’ living rooms are known for their blend of vintage charm and modern comfort,” says Theresa Butler, principal and founder of Theresa Butler Interiors in Atlanta, of a more recent addition to the star’s portfolio. “In her film ‘The Student’s Apprentice,’ Anne Hathaway’s character Jules lives in a stunning brownstone apartment in New York. The living room features exquisite architectural elements such as intricate moldings and an elegant fireplace that convey a sense of grandeur and history. These are complemented by modern furnishings, creating a harmonious blend of old and new.”
With traditional details like exposed beams and a stone fireplace mixed with modern accents, a bit like Anne Hathaway’s own living room, this space has design depth without being overly luxurious; it strikes the perfect balance for a home that will never go out of style.
2. Multi-layered natural textures
Life with Lolo, Life Created Photography
(Image credit: Life with Lolo, Life Created Photography)
The calm, luxurious look of this autumnal living room reminds us of Cameron Diaz’s living room in The Holiday. “What makes these spaces really homey is the lived-in details,” Theresa continues. “Books, photos and various furnishings are displayed throughout, giving the space life and character.”
As we can see in this neutral space created by Lauren Lerner, founder of Living with Lolo, a beautiful fireplace and a simple display of ceramics in natural tones create a casual atmosphere and a rustic finish.
“Interestingly, despite their familiar and aesthetically pleasing appeal, these spaces avoid current trends. The walls in Meyers’ films are typically painted white or beige, and natural materials such as stone and wood are used prominently. In addition, Meyers’ living rooms feature extensive layering and texture,” adds Theresa.
Choose furniture and accessories that envelop the room rather than making it feel rigidly thrown together. “Rugs help define spaces and soften the harsh natural materials, while a mix of textures like cotton, rattan, wood and metal creates a curated, lived-in feel rather than a staged backdrop,” suggests Theresa.
3. Keep things simple and elegant
Photography by Kaitlin Greene for Sunday House Design
(Photo credit: Photography by Kaitlin Greene for Sunday House Design)
In true Nancy Meyers living room style, a fresh coastal aesthetic shines through in this space. A simple and elegant neutral sofa element is brought into the season with tactile soft furnishings like throws and an array of pillows in cozy and defined patterns.
“We used dark, neutral tones and bold patterns to complement the light, airy freshness in unexpected but tasteful ways,” says Noelle Harvey, founder of Sunday House, who designed the lounge above. “Choosing timeless finishes was key to this project so we could create a space that will be loved for years to come.”
Lighting can also add atmosphere to a living room. Nancy Meyers stages her own entrance area with the perfect mix of pendant lights, table lamps and wall lamps for an inviting atmosphere. “We also wanted to make the living room particularly cozy and relaxing, so we added warm accents like the luxurious throws and wall lamps in warm tones,” the designer continues.
4. Be bolder with bold colors
(Image credit: Magnolia)
From fresh fall leaves to heavy fabrics draping sofa arms and chairs in rich hues, a Nancy Meyers-style autumnal living room will layer the prettiest colors for fall: ochre, burgundy, and cappuccino tones combine to create a cocoon effect.
“Bringing nature into your room with colors and materials will give your room a more autumnal feel,” says Hannah Oravec of Lawless Design. “Cozy materials like wood and velvet provide a warmth that’s perfect for this time of year. As for colors, a base of earth tones like rust, green, mustard and beige will also bring out these qualities.”
5. “Overfilling” with patterns and nostalgia
(Image credit: Read McKendree / JBSA)
Combining linear stripes with intricate floral patterns and even geometric prints, many sets are transitional in style and reminiscent of traditional country style, giving the impression of cozy opulence.
“I think this Nancy Meyers trend is similar to recent grandma trends in that it’s all about the search for comfort, nostalgia, family memories and warm, cozy things,” says Katie Rosenfield. “Everything stuffed, stripes, blue and white, cardigans on the beach and in the Hamptons – what could be more American classic? I think we all crave that throwback to Jack and Diane.”
Nancy Meyers’ aesthetic may have been a growing trend until 2024, but the look is timeless. That’s why the sets (and wardrobes) of her films never go out of style. The cozy, homey look with a touch of luxury is also perfect for the transition from late summer to the early fall months.
