This Hosting Season, My Inspiration Has Come From the Kitchens of Nora Ephron Movies – Here's How I'm Recreating the Iconic Lived-in Look
News November 23, 2025

This Hosting Season, My Inspiration Has Come From the Kitchens of Nora Ephron Movies – Here's How I'm Recreating the Iconic Lived-in Look

Layered, lived-in, and full of nostalgia, Nora Ephron's movie kitchens are the pinnacle of cozy style

Forget minimalist trends, this hosting season, the hottest inspiration is coming straight from the silver screen. Specifically, the warm, inviting, and undeniably charming kitchens of Nora Ephron's iconic movies. Forget perfectly staged perfection, think layered, lived-in, and overflowing with a comforting sense of nostalgia.

For many, Ephron's films aren't just movies; they're visual comfort food. And nowhere is that more evident than in the kitchens she so lovingly portrays. They're not sterile showrooms, but rather bustling hubs of activity, reflecting the lives and loves of the characters who inhabit them.

So, how can you bring that Ephron-esque magic into your own home for your next gathering? It's all about embracing imperfection and celebrating the personal touches that make a space truly unique.

Start by ditching the matchy-matchy aesthetic. Instead of a perfectly coordinated set of dishes, curate a collection of mismatched plates, bowls, and serving pieces. Think vintage finds, inherited treasures, and pieces picked up on your travels. The more eclectic, the better.

Next, embrace the power of open shelving. Showcase your favorite cookbooks, quirky kitchen gadgets, and jars filled with colorful ingredients. Don't be afraid to let things spill over a little – a stack of cookbooks leaning precariously, a trailing vine of ivy, a handwritten recipe card propped against a spice rack.

Flowers are also key. A vase overflowing with wildflowers, a pot of fragrant herbs on the windowsill, or even a single bloom in a bud vase can instantly inject warmth and personality into the space.

And finally, don't forget the details. A well-worn wooden cutting board, a collection of vintage tea towels, a bowl of lemons on the counter – these small touches are what truly bring the Ephron kitchen to life. The goal is to create a space that feels both inviting and authentic, a place where guests feel comfortable enough to kick back, relax, and linger over a delicious meal.

So, this hosting season, take a cue from Nora Ephron and embrace the beauty of imperfection. By layering in personal touches and celebrating the lived-in look, you can create a kitchen that's not just stylish, but also full of warmth, charm, and unforgettable memories. After all, isn't that what hosting is all about?
Category: Entertainment