This past weekend I was able to see a classic cult film, Harold and Maude (1971). While I loved the movie, what really caught my eye was the house of Harold's mother, Mrs. Chasen. 
The house really reminds me of the work of John Woolf: mainly because of that canopy over the front door. (Read this great article from Vanity Fair about Woolf by Matt Tyrnauer HERE). Classic Woolf, don't you think? From what I could find HERE though, the house is actually the The Rose Court Mansion in Hillsborough and many of the scenes were shot inside, even using the actual butler from the house in the movie!
The home is extremely eclectic inside, but French styles dominate. This study, seen above was off the main living room where all of the dates Harold takes, set up by his mother, take place.
1971....but this could be a home today for the most part, don't you agree? The classic white lenox lamps, the beautiful chair in the background, simple drapes, big windows. I just loved this room!
The classic lenox lamp is used throughout the room as are potted orchids. The couch is a bit dated but still stylish: simple white linen with an interesting trim. My poor pictures don't capture the beautiful painted paneling in this room either.
Here you see that chair again...the clothes are definitely dated even if the room is not...
I loved the pelmets over the curtains - so perfect for a mansion of this caliber.
Yes, the yellow ragweed flowers are dated as is the victorian style table but you catch a better glimpse of the beautiful paneling in this room and the chinoiserie statue. Check out the checked B&W marble tiled hallway! classic!
From the next room over, you get a better glimpse of the living room. I love the 2 stylish 20's era portrait as well as the game-table in the corner; Another great white chair as well! Just ignore Harold's fake suicide attempt here in this photo with his feet up in the air.....just like his mother did!
To end with , maybe not a really great interior shot, but I loved the gallery wall in the master bedroom hallway. Ideas just keep being recyled: Whats old is new again!
Please excuse the poor quality of the photos are they are my own of my tv!
I love this post Stefan! It makes me want to go back and watch the movie now just to see the interiors! :)
ReplyDeletexoxo
Judith~
Judith, this is DEFINITELY a 'rewatcher'! Watch it again :-)
ReplyDeleteyeah i have to agre! those interiors in the movie are amazing. im with paris ateleir, im gonna have to rewatch it!
ReplyDeleteI've never seen this movie, but I may have to run out and rent it now! (I've really enjoyed finding your blog, and been reading a bit here and there all week!)
ReplyDeleteOne of my most favorite movies of all times.
ReplyDeleteI loved the music and the interiors and the cars too.
This is an amazing movie. It's one fo my faves.
ReplyDeleteoh, i LOVE LOVE LOVE this movie. It's been ages since I watched, thanks for the reminder, now I know what I'll be doing with any free time this weekend!
ReplyDeleteGreat post Stefan and thanks for giving the link to the VF article on John Woolf. I want to know how you capture images from a DVD (which I presume this is) I want to steal some images from HIGH SOCIETY!
ReplyDeletePS Happy Birthday for a few days ago!
This is exactly why I continually watch and rewatch The Remains of the Day. I just want to move into that estate!
ReplyDeleteCollar's Up!
Allie in G'town
GENIUS post, mr. s!!!
ReplyDeleteIf you like the sets in this film check out THE GAME IS OVER it's a mid sixties Jane Fonda French flick
ReplyDeleteJane is the unhappy wife of rich older man falls for grown up step son. Great opulent sets.
how did i miss this post ??
ReplyDeletei can tell you, this was a funny movie. i always wondered about the sets.
xx