WHAT MOVIES, INTERIORS AND POPCORN HAVE IN COMMON
One of my criteria when judging a film is the interior decoration.
Yes, it may seem a bit shallow, but the interiors play an important part in telling the story. They take us to a place that gives an insight into the characters who live there. When I get some ‘me’ time, there are some movies I love to watch again and again for their interior inspiration. So, grab some popcorn and check out some of my favourites:
It’s complicated (2009)
What’s not to like about this idyllic setting? Although Merryl Streep’s character is not in an idyllic place with her ex-husband, her surrounds make up for it! Her house is set in Santa Barbara with furnishings that are neutral with easy going slip covers, baskets and sisal rugs. And the rustic style kitchen has utensils out on display with stacked white crockery on the shelves showcasing the main character’s love of cooking. INSPO – arrange your (nice) bowls, chopping boards and utensils on your shelves, bench tops or sideboard to add colour and interest.
The Help (2011)
Set in Mississippi in the 1960’s during the Civil Rights movement, it’s a story about the treatment of African American housekeepers. In keeping with the time, the film takes us into the homes of the white families who employ these women. One house in particular, is a middle class modern ranch style house with wood panelled walls, big windows, mid-century furniture, buttoned back chairs, melamine kitchen tables and exposed brick walls. INSPO – for a retro feel, try adding elements from the mid-century and think twice before painting over your wood panelling! Go to second hand shops such as op-shops and antique stores. For my ideas on vintage and pre-loved finds, see my blog ‘Why I now like ‘junk”.
Adore (2013)
This is an Australian film with a rather controversial story line. Starring Naomi Watts and Robin Wright, it is set on the beaches of New South Wales. The neighbouring houses with water views, are decked out in subdued colours of greys and blues, inspired from the landscape. The interiors are unfussy reflecting the carefree beach lifestyle, with curtains, soft furnishings and sofas in linen and cotton. INSPO – beach style can be sophisticated and still be relaxed. Try hanging some sheer curtains for a casual feel or throwing some grey or blue linen cushions on your sofa.
The Intern (2015)
This movie is where gen Y meets baby boomers. Anne Hathaway plays a dot com entrepreneur trying to navigate a fast growing company, while juggling a young family. Set in present day Brooklyn, she lives in an amazing brownstone house with cute interiors to match. While being a grown up space, you can tell a young family lives there. Pops of colour such as a yellow sofa, kids art on the wall and trinket boxes and baskets holding the family ‘stuff’, add a playfulness to the space. INSPO – don’t be afraid to use your children’s items as part of your decorating and use attractive storage items to hide family clutter.
So next time you sit down with popcorn to watch a blockbuster, see if you can find some ideas for your home! To receive helpful tips and inspiration direct to your email inbox, please sign-up to receive my “All Things Interiors” newsletter.
