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Design Crush: Anatomy of a Scandal

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If you’re anything like me, you devoured Anatomy of a Scandal on Netflix.  Based on the book by Sarah Vaughan, the psychological thriller tells the story Sophie (Sienna Miller), the attractive albeit long-suffering wife of James Whitehouse (Rupert Friend), an ambitious Tory MP in the British government.  While the story itself is predictable, the stunning interiors, Sienna Miller’s impossibly chic style and my love of Rupert Friend, had me captivated.

Set in London’s tony neighborhood of Mayfair, production designer Melanie Allen wanted a Georgian home that represented a traditional style of architecture and told the story of generational wealth.  Influenced by the lives and homes of designer India Hicks and her husband David Flint Woods and Samantha Cameron, wife of former British prime minister David Cameron and creative director of Smythson of Bond Street, Allen wanted the decor to push the narrative of the show.  Intentional design, my favourite kind.

For instance the off center placement of art in the formal living (which I actually really love) was symbolic, Sophie fighting for her family. The iconic Cole & Sons Woods wallpaper in the kitchen was meant to represent Sophie adrift in the woods.

It’s hard to pick my favourite part of the home, the incredible wallpapers, gorgeous lighting and lux furnishings are spectacular and speak to classic English design. But if I had to choose, it would be a tie between the dining area off the kitchen with it’s amazing corner banquette and beautiful wall moulding and the kitchen itself, with it’s green cabinetry, the simple wood counters and the brilliant iron and glass sliding doors.

The library between the kitchen and the formal living room with it’s dark walls, classic mouldings and book lined shelves is another beautiful space.

The snake print fabric on the headboard is a subtle nod to the story-line.

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