fbpx

Charley’s sumptuous Midcentury Hollywood Regency bedroom in A Single Man

Charley’s sumptuous Midcentury Hollywood Regency bedroom in A Single Man

Much has been said about George’s impeccably stylish house in the 2009 film A Single Man. Set in 1962, the production design team, renowned for their work on Mad Men—production designer Dan Bishop and set decorator Amy Wells—immersed themselves in the elegance of Midcentury design. The film brilliantly showcases the iconic Schaffer residence, designed by John Lautner, where George (played by Colin Firth) resides. This modernist marvel captures the architectural essence of the era. But while George’s home has garnered much attention, what of Charley’s house?

In stark contrast to George’s sleek and minimalist modernist abode, Charley’s house (brought to life by Julianna Moore) is a decadent celebration of feminine allure. It’s dressed in soft, sumptuous hues and embodies the Midcentury Hollywood Regency style—a design approach that first flourished in California during Hollywood’s Golden Age of the 1930s. Charley’s interiors are a lavish blend of glamour with touches of Moroccan influence, filmed in a charming Pasadena residence.

charleys bedroom a single man
Julianna Moore as Charley in A Single Man

Also known as Regency Moderne, this style is a tribute to the glitz and glamour of the silver screen, blending 19th-century design, Art Deco, and mid-century modern elements to craft spaces that are as comfortable as they are elegant.

Julianna Moore as Charley in a Single Man
Julianna Moore as Charley in A Single Man

For those inspired to infuse a touch of this luxury into their own homes, consider layering rich textures like velvet, suede, and silk. Iconic motifs such as mirrored furniture, metallic accents, and glass details can work wonders, along with a mix of contrasting patterns and textiles.

Left: Charley’s bedside lamps in A Single Man. Right: Similar white toleware lamps on Etsy
Tole lamps with white-painted metal flowers and leaves
Tole lamps with white-painted metal flowers and leaves from Palm Beach Regency and eBay

In Charley’s boudoir, the bedside table lamps stand out—exquisite tole lamps adorned with white-painted metal flowers and leaves. (You can find similar pieces at Etsy, Palm Beach Regency, and eBay.)

Charley's bedhead is upholstered in a striking turquoise, camel, and sand Ikat fabric
Charley’s bedhead is upholstered in a striking turquoise, camel, and sand Ikat fabric

The bedhead is upholstered in a striking turquoise, camel, and sand Ikat fabric, known under various names such as Tilbury Lapis and Balboa Ikat, crafted by both Laura Ashley and Ballard Designs.

Charley's vanity unit in A Single Man
Charley’s vanity unit in A Single Man

This bedroom in A Single Man further dazzles with large silver lamps and a North African mirror, intricately inlaid with bone and wood, placed on Charley’s vanity.

The mirror is mounted on a beautifully carved wooden screen, painted in the classic Hollywood Regency white. The vanity table is elegantly draped in a coral-and-white botanical print that harmonises with the ikat-patterned curtains. The floor is covered in a pale pink wall-to-wall carpet, while the vanity’s slipper chair, with its graceful cabriole legs, is upholstered in a plush flokati.

Charley’s home is a masterclass in blending luxury with comfort, offering endless inspiration for those who wish to bring a touch of Old Hollywood glamour into their own spaces.

 

This feature is FREE to Classic members.

Join our newsletter community to receive Film and Furniture inspiration direct to your inbox and we’ll UPGRADE you to Classic Membership (which includes access to our exciting giveaway draws) for FREE.

To access in-depth features, video interviews, invitations to pre-release film screenings, major exhibitions and more, become a Front Row or Backstage member today!

Join our newsletter

Receive film and furniture inspiration direct to your inbox

* indicates required

Our Privacy Policy

Want to become a member? View our membership options.