Classic Isn't Basic: Annie Meyers-Shyer on Designing a Home That Lasts

Why do some homes feel timeless while others look dated within a few years?

Annie Meyers-Shyer—the creator behind @thisoakhouse, former Chanel and Harper’s Bazaar PR executive, and daughter of legendary filmmaker Nancy Meyers—joins Molly and Emese to share the design philosophy that’s made millions fall in love with her approach to interiors.

Annie explains how documenting her own family renovation unexpectedly led to a bestselling design book, then shares the practical advice every homeowner should know: how to build mood boards that actually work, why she always asks “Will I love this in 10 years?”, how to find a contractor you can trust, why every room needs something old, and why she refuses to color match paint.

Whether you’re renovating an entire house, refreshing one room, or simply want your home to feel more like you, this episode is packed with timeless design advice you’ll come back to again and again.

“In fashion, you know everything someone’s wearing — who makes their shoes, their glasses, their nail polish. But in interiors, nobody shares anything. I was DM’ing people, ‘I love that lamp, who makes it?’ and I could see it was read and nobody was getting back to me. So I took this approach of treating interiors like fashion — I’m going to share everything. The marble yard, the color grout. I just couldn’t get any information from anyone on social media, so I was like, ‘I’m gonna try to break down that barrier.’ And I think that’s really what resonated with people.”

“Classic is what remains when the trends pass. When everything comes and goes, classic is what stays. My mom built her house in 1998. If you walked into her kitchen, you would think it was built yesterday. There’s nothing about it that feels dated. You can’t put a timestamp on it. So when it comes to things that will last in the house — past you, even — I always thought to myself: will I love this in 10 years? Did I like it 10 years ago? Is this a classic choice?”

“I’m 45. I didn’t think I would be a content creator or a writer. I was very firmly planted as a stay-at-home mom, and I was as busy as I’d ever been and very happy there. I had a little idea in the bathtub one day, and I was like, ‘Maybe I’ll start an Instagram — we’ll see what happens.’ And so anything can happen. I’m now working with unbelievable brands, going on a huge book tour. I never imagined I would be in some of the conversations I’m in, ever. Women are amazing, and you can do anything at any time.”