Touring The Set Of ‘Only Murders in the Building’ Season 3 | Set Tour | Architectural Digest

TL;DR

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the set design for seasons two and three of Only Murders in the Building, exploring iconic locations and clever design choices.

Transcript

hi my name is Patrick Howe and I'm the production designer of Seasons two and three of only murders in the building I'm going to show you around let's get to it our apologies if you hear any additional sounds or noises while we're taking our tour we're in the middle of preparations for scenes next week with lots of construction and painting welcome... Read More

Key Insights

• 😫 The set design of Only Murders in the Building incorporates nods to the actors' filmography, adding an extra layer of depth for fans.
• ⚖️ Mabel's apartment renovation aimed to strike a balance between a personal touch and marketability for potential buyers.
• 🎭 The theaters in the show were designed to capture the grandeur and history of Broadway theaters, with original elements from the past.
• 🤵 Each character's dressing room was designed to reflect their personality and unique traits.
• 👻 Attention to detail, such as gimbaling mirrors and removable walls, allowed for practicality and convenience during filming.
• 😫 The set design team utilized a mix of real and fictional elements to create a believable and immersive environment.
• 😫 The furniture and decor choices for each set were carefully curated to align with the characters' backgrounds and stories.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the production design team incorporate references to Martin Short and Steve Martin's filmography in the set design?

The team included accessories in the Arconia building that were nods to films featuring Martin Short and Steve Martin, adding a touch of nostalgia and personalization to the set. These accessories served as Easter eggs for dedicated fans to discover.

Q: What inspired the design of Mabel's renovated apartment?

The design aimed to maintain the open and spacious look of Mabel's apartment while incorporating elements of renovation. A shutter system was implemented to create an elegant and airy aesthetic, and wallpaper patterns with an organic feel reflected Mabel's artistic personality.

Q: How did the design team create a realistic and detailed theater setting?

The set design of the Gooseberry theater drew inspiration from the opulent theaters built at the turn of the century. Vintage fixtures and elements from movie palaces were incorporated to capture the authentic feel of a Broadway theater.

Q: What unique features were included in Charles's dressing room?

Charles's dressing room featured a consistent blue color scheme, reflecting his character's aesthetic. The mirrors were designed to tilt for better camera reflections, and the walls could be pulled away to accommodate the limited space.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Arconia building serves as a central location in the show, featuring secret passageways, mosaic tile floors, and a nod to Martin Short and Steve Martin's filmography.

• Ben Glenroy's penthouse apartment, formerly Sting's apartment, showcases a collection of memorabilia and references to Paul Rudd's hometown.

• Mabel's apartment undergoes renovations, with a focus on maintaining an open and spacious design, while incorporating nods to her artistic background.

• Other notable sets include Charles's front foyer, Loretta's modest studio apartment, and the Gooseberry theater's dressing rooms.