Lights, Camera Action: Film sets & interiors

What's your interiors story?

If you’re looking to create interiors that are full of authenticity, ironically you may need to look in the most contrived places to find inspiration.

Film set interiors play a pivotal role in storytelling, offering audiences a visual narrative that complements character development and plot progression. The meticulous design of these spaces not only reflects the personalities and backgrounds of characters but also immerses viewers into the film's world. A quintessential example of this is the recent portrayal of Bridget Jones's Hampstead home in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy.

In the film, the protagonist's residence is a Victorian house nestled in picturesque Hampstead. Set decorator Penny Crawford, renowned for her work on films like Trainspotting and Resident Evil, was tasked with bringing this home to life. Filmed on sets constructed at Sky Studios Elstree, Crawford's design reflects Bridget's journey through grief and her vibrant personality.

Crawford's approach began with understanding Bridget's character. She envisioned the home as a blend of Bridget's lively spirit and the lingering presence of her late husband, Mark Darcy. The kitchen features a family-friendly Aga, symbolising warmth and togetherness, while the living room boasts a real fire, enhancing the cosy ambiance. Mark's office remains untouched, preserving his memory with family photographs, juxtaposed against the more eclectic and colourful spaces that represent Bridget's free-spirited nature.

Designing interiors for film involves more than aesthetic appeal; it's about creating spaces that resonate with the narrative and characters. Set decorators often start with a key piece that encapsulates the character's essence, building the room's design around it. Beth Rubino, known for her work on It's Complicated and Something's Gotta Give, suggests that blending styles and eras can add depth, making the space feel authentic and lived-in.

Lighting is another crucial element. Unlike traditional interiors where lighting is often functional, film set lighting is designed to enhance mood and focus attention. Cinematographers often avoid overhead lighting, opting for sources at various angles to add depth and dimension, thereby creating a more engaging visual experience.

Translating Film Set Design to Personal Spaces

Homeowners inspired by film interiors can incorporate certain principles into their own spaces:

Personal Narratives: Decorate with items that tell your story—travel souvenirs, family heirlooms or artwork you love. This approach mirrors how set decorators use objects to reflect a character's history and personality. It makes a space feel authentic.

Eclectic Mix: Don't feel confined to a single style. Combining different periods and designs can result in a unique and personalised space, much like the curated yet diverse aesthetics seen in film sets.

Thoughtful Lighting: Use lighting to create ambiance. Incorporate lamps and fixtures that provide various light sources, enhancing the room's depth and warmth.

By adopting these techniques, you can infuse your home with the same intentionality and character found in thoughtfully designed film interiors.

Film set interiors are meticulously crafted to serve the story, offering viewers a deeper connection to the characters and their journeys. The design of Bridget Jones's home in Mad About the Boy exemplifies how interiors can reflect personal narratives and emotional landscapes. By understanding and applying these design principles, we can create living spaces that not only look beautiful but also tell our unique stories.