Meet Annie Meyers-Shyer, the Los Angeles-based creative behind @thisoakhouse, whose personal renovation project has evolved into a thoughtful chronicle of reimagining her 1940s Gerard Colcord home. Her approach is rooted in the belief that a home should feel as good as it looks, balancing beauty with function and honoring original architecture while adapting it for modern family life.
Known for her transparency, Annie shares not only the finished result but the full process, from early sketches to final millwork, offering both practical guidance and inspiration. Her debut book, This Oak House, expands on that philosophy. The book serves as both a resource and a visual study, combining lessons learned throughout the renovation with a detailed, room-by-room exploration of the finished home. It reflects Annie’s core ethos: that thoughtful, well-made spaces are meant for everyday living.
We’re sitting down with Annie today on the blog to talk about her new book, the inspiration behind her work, and all things design and lifestyle. Read on to follow along. x
a conversation with Annie…
1
Let’s start from the beginning! Tell us a little about the journey that led you to where you are today.
My career began in fashion. I was an editor at Harper’s Bazaar in New York before moving back to Los Angeles to work in-house at CHANEL. Those experiences taught me so much about craftsmanship, proportion, styling, and how to create something that feels beautiful without feeling overdone. Looking back, I can see how much those years shaped my design sensibility, even though I didn’t realize it at the time.
2
Looking back on the story that became This Oak House, how has the experience shaped the way you think about home and design?
Completely. Every decision we made taught me something. Renovating this house reinforced my belief that the best homes aren’t the trendiest ones, they’re the ones that reflect the people who live there. I also learned that the smallest details matter. Individually they can seem insignificant, but together they’re what create a feeling. More than anything, the process gave me confidence to trust my instincts and create a home that worked for my family rather than chasing what everyone else was doing.
3
Social media documented the milestones of the renovation, but a book allows for a different kind of storytelling. What parts of the process felt most important to highlight or revisit—and why?
Social media documented the milestones of the renovation, but a book allows for a different kind of storytelling. What parts of the process felt most important to highlight or revisit—and why?
Having the book felt like the perfect punctuation mark at the end of the story. Social media lets you save things in Highlights or Reels, but a book allows you to tell the whole story in a thoughtful way. I wanted it to be beautiful, of course, but I also wanted it to be useful. Whether someone lives in a house, an apartment, is renovating, or simply wants to make their home feel more personal, I hope there’s something in it they can take away.
4
Tell us a bit about how you find inspiration. What factors have played roles in the development of your creative style and evolving brand aesthetic?
Travel is probably the obvious answer, but it’s true. Visiting places I’ve never been, walking through beautiful homes, staying in inspiring hotels, or simply noticing how people live in different parts of the world always fills my creative tank. I’m also very inspired by creative people. Spending time with people who make beautiful things almost always sends me home with new ideas.
5
From caring for your home and garden to developing content, testing products, working on various creative projects, and everything in between, you juggle so much! Tell us what a typical day-in-the-life looks like for you.
From caring for your home and garden to developing content, testing products, working on various creative projects, and everything in between, you juggle so much! Tell us what a typical day-in-the-life looks like for you.
Most days begin with an early workout, followed by breakfast with my kids before getting them out the door. Then it’s a few hours of back-to-back Zoom meetings, emails, and creative work before a quick lunch. Afternoons are usually spent running to appointments or picking my kids up from school, and then it’s straight into homework, dinner, and family time. Every single night ends the same way: with a bath before bed.
6
Are there any daily habits or non-negotiables that help you stay grounded and inspired amidst such a dynamic career?
Are there any daily habits or non-negotiables that help you stay grounded and inspired amidst such a dynamic career?
Sleep is a huge priority for me. I really try to get eight hours whenever I can. I also take a bath every single night and carve out quiet time every day. I’ve realized I can’t be creative if my brain never gets a chance to slow down, so protecting those moments has become completely non-negotiable.
7
Do you have any gardening tips or hacks you could share with us?
Do you have any gardening tips or hacks you could share with us?
Stay vigilant. Gardens reward consistency more than anything else. I walk mine every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. If I see a weed, I pull it. If something looks unhealthy, I address it right away. Honestly, ChatGPT has become one of my favorite gardening tools. If I spot a fungus, insect, or plant issue I don’t recognize, I’ll snap a photo, upload it, and get advice on how to treat it. Staying on top of little problems before they become big ones has made all the difference.
8
What is a design-related trend or element you’re loving right now? And not so much?
I’ve never been someone who gravitates toward trends. I’d much rather invest in timeless pieces like antiques rather than chase what’s popular in the moment. That said, I have noticed a renewed appreciation for thoughtful millwork, and I absolutely love seeing that. It’s one of those details that quietly elevates a home and gives it character that never goes out of style.
9
Looking ahead, what’s next for you? What are you most proud of, and where do you hope to grow?
This fall I’ll be zigzagging around the country on book tour, which is incredibly exciting. I also have several collaborations launching that I’m really proud of, and I’ll admit… a second book idea has definitely started percolating.
rapid fire with Annie…
1
Favorite place to visit to spark inspiration?
Anywhere I’ve never been before.
2
Your coffee or tea order?
Iced tea, unsweetened.
3
Go-to interior paint color?
Slipper Satin by Farrow & Ball.
4
Favorite space in your home?
My bedroom.
5
One product that’s always in your bag?
Lip balm! Any kind, just don’t enjoy when it tingles.
This Oak House by Annie Meyers-Shyer
$45
Taper Candle
$4
Vienna Taper Candle Holder
From $24
Silver Stamped Matchbox
$38
Roland Raffia Placemat
$24
Found Natural Wood Pedestal
$68
Oval Stoneware Platter
$80
Sawyer Ceramic Butter Dish
$54
Yatzil Handblown Oaxacan Glassware
From $24
Irina Tea Towel
$18
