If you’re a fan of good drama set in the most lavish backdrops, then you’ve probably been following The Gilded Age, HBO’s newest period drama that premiered on January 24.
Created by Fitzrovia and Downtown Abbey genius Julian Fellowes, this story follows the lives of different characters across high society in New York during the 19th century. But more than the signature drama and turbulence that’s reminiscent of Fellowes’ work, the new series also promises a lot of good 19th-century interior design.
Inspiration Behind the Design
According to HBO, The Gilded Age was an interesting time in America: “The American Gilded Age was a period of immense economic change, of great conflict between the old ways and brand new systems, and of huge fortunes made and lost.” This is why you can expect to see lavish soirees, beautiful mansions, and a lot of social gossip throughout the series.
But more than that, the interiors that you’ll see in these sets are reminiscent of Pulitzer Prize-winner Edith Wharton’s novels, particularly The Custom of the Country, a novel about a ruthless social climber–the very same book that inspired Fellowes to be a writer.
Interior Design Points to Remember
Avid followers of The Gilded Age have noticed a lot of beautiful details in the sets of the show. A lot of these scenes were actually shot in Newport, where some of the most lavish houses featuring 19th-century architecture still stand today.
For instance, the Russels’ Manhattan ballroom was shot at The Breakers music room, which was a Renaissance-style palace built by Cornelius Vanderbilt II and designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt.
Here are some interior design takeaways from one of the hottest shows on HBO at the moment:
- If you can afford it, buy it. That means all the expensive moldings and chandeliers that will make your home the best-looking one in your area. If you can afford to make your home as lavish as possible, then it is your civic duty to do it.
- Keep it low-key. There should be a hint of mystery in your home. Try to keep it low-key from the outside but pour all your luxurious ideas into your interiors under the skillful guidance of a professional interior designer. This will give your home that hint of exclusivity.
- Make it original. Period interior design can sometimes be too uniform, especially since a lot of people follow what other houses already have. But if you are to create a house that will dazzle like the Russells’ impressive home, make sure to add original details around your house. Don’t aspire to what others already have; instead, give your home character with elements that are reminiscent of your own style, though perhaps inspired by 19th-century interior design.
Final Takeaway
As we continue to follow the story, we also take note of the interior design elements that make The Gilded Age more interesting to watch. Make sure to keep an eye out for those little details in every episode and work with the best interior design firm in Orlando to make it happen.