Set love: only murders in the building
"Only Murders in the Building" isn't just a murder mystery comedy series; it's a visual delight that invites viewers into the eclectic lives of its characters through meticulously crafted production sets. Among the most intriguing are the apartments of the three protagonists: Charles-Haden Savage, Oliver Putnam, and Mabel Mora. Let's delve into how these spaces reflect the personalities of their residents.
Charles-Haden Savage (Played by Steve Martin)
Charles-Haden Savage's apartment exudes an aura of old-world charm blended with modern sensibilities. Situated in the historic Arconia building, Charles's living space is adorned with classic furniture pieces and antique décor, reflecting his refined taste and appreciation for tradition. The rich blue accents, plush upholstery, and ornate details hint at his sophisticated background as a former TV detective. However, amidst the elegance, there's a subtle hint of melancholy, evident in the muted, cool color palette and the occasional glimpse of vintage crime memorabilia, serving as a reminder of his past glory days.
Oliver Putnam (Played by Martin Short)
Oliver Putnam's apartment is a whimsical haven bursting with color and eccentricity, mirroring the flamboyant personality of its owner. Every corner of the space is adorned with quirky art pieces, eclectic furniture, and vibrant accents that reflect Oliver's free-spirited nature and creative flair. From the mismatched patterns to the eclectic collection of knick-knacks, Oliver's apartment is a visual feast that encapsulates his penchant for drama. Despite the chaos, there's an underlying sense of warmth and hospitality, making it the perfect setting for impromptu gatherings and creative brainstorming sessions.
Mabel Mora (Played by Selena Gomez)
Mabel Mora's apartment serves as a stark contrast to the opulence of her neighbors, reflecting her minimalist aesthetic and guarded demeanor. Tucked away in a corner of the Arconia, Mabel's living space is characterized by clean lines, neutral tones, and sparse furnishings, creating an atmosphere of serene solitude. The absence of personal mementos or decorative embellishments hints at Mabel's secretive nature and her reluctance to form attachments. Yet, amidst the minimalism, there are subtle touches of warmth and vulnerability, like the soft lighting and cozy throws, offering glimpses into Mabel's hidden depths and underlying vulnerabilities.
Her hand-painted murals that journalled her emotional journey since our first introductions was painted over as a mark of her new beginnings in season 2. We see this marked change to her surroundings in the latest season where, while stylishly decorated with some iconic pieces, it is overall appealing to a universal taste. Even Patrick Howe, the third season’s production designer, described the apartment as ‘sellable’ which I believe indicates that Mabel’s might not be settled anytime soon.
A special mention goes to Loretta Durkin, Oliver’s love interest in the 3rd season. Her cozy studio apartment embodies a grandma-cottagecore-vintage vibe that feels like the most ‘real’ apartment on the show and the most true to life for an aspiring broadway actress in New York City. When Oliver arrives for their dinner date, he exclaims “Art! It’s art!”. A better description for this space, I could not find. It appears as though Loretta has loved her for many decades and the feeling of a well loved home certainly comes through.
Her kitchen appears as a lived in, functional space right down to the magnets on the fridge and every bit of possible space being used for storage. The raised platform towards the rear would have dominated the room if not for the clever use of fairy lights to lift the room and brighten the space. The patterns on patterns, clever storage, keepsakes and bookshelf lighting has provided so much inspiration for those currently living in a small space. It’s small but packed full of charm, history and that quintessential feeling of home. They even managed to make the Murphy bed appealing
In "Only Murders in the Building," the production sets serve as more than just backdrops; they're extensions of the characters themselves, providing valuable insights into their personalities, quirks, and motivations. Through these carefully crafted spaces, viewers are invited to unravel the mysteries of not only the crimes they investigate but also the complex inner worlds of our beloved main characters.
