When it comes to creating memorable film and TV characters, production designers and set decorators play a crucial role. They don’t just craft the environment but shape how the audience perceives a character through their surroundings. And one of the most exciting aspects? Choosing the right furniture.

For interior designers, selecting furniture goes beyond aesthetic appeal—it’s about reflecting the personality and lifestyle of the client. And in the world of film, that means interpreting a character’s traits through design.

The incredibly talented Sonja Klaus—a renowned production designer and set decorator behind some of the biggest blockbusters and TV shows – from Gladiator and Prometheus to X-Men: First Class and Mr Selfridge joined Paula Benson from Film and Furniture to walk us through the process of selecting furniture for iconic film characters, turning Chaplins 25,000 sq ft furniture showroom in Hatch End, North London into a vibrant canvas for cinematic storytelling

We set Sonja a playful brief: to interpret the personalities of five well-known film characters and select the perfect furniture for their homes. With over 180 brands to choose from, this was no small task! Read on and watch the video interview from our YouTube channel below for more insights into how Sonja brings these characters to life through design.

Tony Stark (Iron Man): The Billionaire Genius

When you think of Tony Stark, you picture high-tech, futuristic luxury with a touch of boldness and sophistication. His home needs to reflect not just his wealth, but his cutting-edge intellect and larger-than-life personality. Portrayed by Robert Downey Jr., Tony Stark appears in the Iron Man trilogy, three Avengers films, Captain America: Civil War, and Spider-Man: Homecoming.

 

Sonja’s pick? The Tyron Wood table from Cattelan Italia. “Tony’s about sharp, masculine lines and a combination of materials that scream wealth and power,” Sonja explains. “The thick top and metal undercarriage give it that industrial edge. I’d pair it with the Cosmos Wall Mirror, which adds a touch of shine—just like his suits.”

And while this could easily sit as a dining table, for Tony, Sonja imagines it more as a desk or standalone feature in a stylish study. The choice is bold and undeniably Stark.

Miranda Priestly: Power, Elegance, and Perfection

Miranda Priestly—the powerful editor-in-chief in The Devil Wears Prada—demands nothing less than perfection. Choosing furniture for her home means balancing her icy precision with understated luxury.

For Miranda’s space, Sonja selects the RF1903 Sideways Sofa by Carl Hansen & Son. “It’s Danish design, timeless, and exudes luxury—just like her. The cords on the back mirror her tight, sharp personality, while the soft fabric adds a layer of warmth that reflects the rare glimpses of vulnerability she shows.”

For her home office, Sonja picks the Midi Executive Desk and Elis Office Chair from Porada, reflecting Miranda’s no-nonsense, business-first attitude. The desk’s angular lines and subtle hidden features are as enigmatic as Miranda herself. “This desk commands attention without being overtly flashy,” says Sonja.

Selina Kyle (Catwoman): Sensual, Stealthy, and Street-Smart

Selina Kyle, also known as Catwoman, is a notorious burglar in Gotham City, initially portrayed as a supervillain and a foe to Batman. However, in more recent adaptations, she has evolved into an antiheroine. 

Catwoman has been brought to life on screen by several iconic actresses, including Lee Meriwether in Batman, Michelle Pfeiffer in Batman Returns, Halle Berry in Catwoman, Anne Hathaway in The Dark Knight Rises, and Zoë Kravitz in The Batman.

Selina’s home reflects her complex, rebellious nature—sensual yet stealthy, refined yet fierce.

For her loft apartment, Sonja chooses the Mona Pendant Light by Brokis. “It’s industrial yet sleek—perfect for a woman who moves in the shadows,” Sonja says. The light’s striking design is an ideal fit for Selina’s edgy, mysterious persona.

Sonja also picks the Lithos Low Table from Maxalto, a bold, unapologetic statement piece. “It’s just like Selina herself,” Sonja explains. “And I can just imagine her cats curling up inside one of the sliding trays underneath.”

Reed Richards & Sue Storm: Midcentury Meets Futurism

With a new Fantastic Four film on the horizon, Sonja explores a mid-century modern style with a futuristic twist to reflect the personalities of Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic) and Sue Storm (Invisible Woman).

This power couple’s space is sleek, rational, and minimal, so Sonja picks the Panton Chair from Vitra in white – a classic of mid-century modern design. “They’re all about function and forward-thinking, but that doesn’t mean he sacrifices style,” Sonja explains.

Additionally, the Five Lamp by Grau embodies grace and power. “This lamp says sci-fi, but it’s also modern and empowering—perfect for this space-adventuring couple.”

Patrick Bateman: The Dark Side of Luxury

Patrick Bateman, the notorious character from American Psycho, is obsessed with status, wealth, and image. His home? An immaculate, pristine showcase of his wealth.

With a new version of American Psycho in the making, Sonja would choose the Modo wall unit by San Giacomo for Bateman’s space, which is both luxurious and imposing. “Patrick wouldn’t settle for anything less than the best,” says Sonja. “This cabinet would likely display rare, valuable art—perhaps a Picasso or even rare first-nations pottery.”

Sonja also envisions a Scott Keramik Table from Cattelan Italia as a piece in Bateman’s home. add more here why from the script. “It’s all about presentation. Nothing in Patrick’s home is accidental; it’s all curated to perfection.”

Bringing Film Characters to Life Through Design

Choosing furniture for a film character is about more than the look, it’s about telling a story through design. As Sonja Klaus demonstrates, the right pieces can transform a space and bring a character’s personality to life.

Chaplins Furniture offers a curated selection of over 180 brands, making it the perfect place for interior designers, set decorators, and design enthusiasts to find pieces that bring their creative visions to life. From mid-century icons to Italian maximalism, Chaplins is a destination for timeless design.

Thanks for joining us on this exciting tour—whether you’re an interior designer, set decorator, or simply a lover of beautiful furniture, we hope it has inspired you to bring your design ideas to life.

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