The Secret to Creating An Cozy Kitchen
See what goes into making a kitchen one you want to spend time in — from timeless kitchen inspiration and home coffee bar styling to durable cookware and classic recipes.
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How To Create a Home Coffee Bar
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It’s interesting to think how much of modern life takes place in the kitchen. No longer just a place to cook, it’s where people gather and hang out. When I think of the dreamiest kitchen, all the kitchen tools I’d need are at the ready, and there are personal touches that invite me in and make me feel at home (oh and I never have to wash a dish!).
This month’s newsletter explores inspiration for cozy kitchens and curates products to easily adapt the look to your own home. The kitchens (and other interiors) from Nancy Meyers’ classic rom com films as prime examples of lived-in spaces brimming with life, how to create an inviting home coffee bar, and collecting cookware that will last for a lifetime and beyond. Plus a few classic recipes to fill your kitchen with delicious smells and food to savor.
Nancy Meyers’ Timeless Interiors
The homes from writer/director Nancy Meyers’ films — whether the coastal breeziness of Something’s Gotta Give or the off-duty chef's oasis in It’s Complicated— live in my head like memories of places I’ve actually been. That’s a testament to the warmth and realness of these spaces. Though they are clean and open, with quality finishes and top of the line appliances, that’s not what defines them; rather it’s the small details like the bunches of fresh herbs, copper pots hanging above the stove, crocks stuffed with utensils, bowls full of fruit, loads of cookbooks (that are clearly used), art and more. I’m sharing some of my favorite Nancy Meyer kitchens (plus living rooms, dining, and potting sheds) and an edit of home decor inspired by them.
How to Create A Home Coffee Bar
Coffee is a big thing in our house. I’m lucky to have a husband who brings me coffee in bed (most mornings anyway) and on demand throughout the day. He’s made it his mission to perfect the art of coffee making. His latest obsession is our new espresso machine which much to my relief happens to be a beautiful piece of design. Its arrival provided an excuse to give our home coffee bar an update both to accommodate his growing collection of tools and to make it feel more inviting. I’m sharing all of our favorite brewing equipment and tools (and why they make a difference) and the decorative touches I used to make my home coffee bar one of my favorite corners of my house.
Cookware Made To Go the Distance
Heirlooms aren’t only relegated to fine china and antiques; there are many high-quality kitchen items that you can buy for life. You can enjoy them during your lifetime and eventually pass them on to a future generation. That’s the kind of investment I like to make.
Smithey, No. 12 Cast Iron Skillet ($210.00)
Buy at Smithey
Nothing compares to a cast iron pan for cooking on the stove or in the oven. When seasoned they are naturally non-stick (with no chemicals). I like this one from Smithey which is hand forged in South Carolina.
Recycled Copper Saute Pan by Amoretti Brothers ($304.00)
Buy at Madetrade
Copper cookware is beautiful to display in a kitchen hanging from hooks. As an alternative to collecting vintage, I suggest this 100% recycled hammered copper that’s designed and crafted with traditional techniques.
Peugeot Paris u'Select Pepper Mill, 9 Inch, Natural ($48.55)
Buy at Amazon
Luckily for us, Peugot makes better grinders than cars. I’ve had mine for years, and it’s still working great. You can adjust the grind sized based on preference, and the natural wood looks good on all counters and tables.
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Signature Oval Dutch Oven, 9.5 qt., Marseille ($524.95)
Buy at Amazon
A big investment but worth every penny — this durable, high-quality pot was made to last. There are many knockoffs out there, but nothing compares to the original. Go with the bigger oval size for more versatility.
KitchenAid K45SSWH Stand Mixer, 4.5 Q, White ($299.99)
Buy at Amazon
While blenders evolve over the years, the KitchenAid design has remained the same for decades. No piece of machinery will look better on your counter. Perhaps in white to withstand trends.
Chemex Pour-Over Glass Coffeemaker ($48.93)
Buy at Amazon
Chemex has been gracing countertops since 1941. The design is so renowned it’s in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art. If you need any more support, a Chemex brews a full-bodied, clean-tasting coffee.
Classic Recipes
No kitchen truly feels inviting with the aromas of fresh baked goods or hearty food simmering away. If you're looking to add something into your rotation, here are the classic recipes I turn to over and over again.
This recipe has never let me down, I basically know it by heart now. If you want moist chicken with crispy skin (and a side of flavorful veggies), this is it.
When I’m craving spaghetti and meatballs, this is the recipe I default to. It’s so simple; I love that it’s made in one pan (I use my trusty cast iron).
The ultimate refined comfort food, IMO. Heartier and richer than a soup, save this stew recipe for winter, maybe a Sunday night supper, and you will not be disappointed.
My friend made these for a birthday the other night, and it was the food equivalent of a mic drop. Very rarely do I ask someone for a recipe, but I did this time, and now I am passing along to you.