How Murders Only Production Design Tells Stories About the Show’s Characters

hulu comedy Only murders in the building. It follows a trio of would-be detectives who live in the fictional Arconia, a classic New York apartment building, where they are surrounded by suspects. Each part provides an opportunity to reveal crucial character details and backstories.

Charles-Hadden Savage (Steve Martin), a semi-retired actor, bought his 14th-floor apartment during the 1990s crime series. Production designer Curt Beech notes that the set received “a newer kitchen and some renovated spaces.” It made him look a lot smarter with his money. We gave him art that shows he’s a keen collector. [with] good eye”

Martin Short’s Oliver Putnam, an unlucky Broadway director, lives in a theater unit; Young artist Mabel Mora, played by Selena Gomez, is a “work in progress” as she renovates her aunt’s unit while living there.

The set also provides character development for your suspects. Howard’s (Michael Cyril Creighton) residence “must be occupied [his] cat and only approx. [his] A cat,” says Beach, bringing a huge cat portrait into the living room. “In his apartment, we assumed it was his mother’s house. Added a few things here and there, mostly for the cat. Sting, who plays himself, lives in an attic whose rock star details include touring boxes and vintage guitar cases. “We have XOXO neon [sign] In red, points [The Police’s] “Roxanne”: “You shouldn’t have run a red light,” says Beach.

Of the home of Tim Conno, who dies in the pilot, Beach says: “There had to be a little bit of mystery. We deliberately didn’t give her apartment much character. However, the Hardy Boys’ important books must appear on the shelves.

This story first appeared in the separate July issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine.