Chances are pretty good that you have never really paid attention to the background of a television sitcom. After all, the romance and mayhem is more interesting, right? But if you sit down and look, you may just find something that appeals to you; that cute figurine on top of the fireplace; the way the cereal boxes are arranged on the kitchen counter; the curtains on the windows. If you ever find yourself wishing to emulate what you see, the tips below may help.
1. Visit Websites with Screenshots and Other Information
If you want to know exactly how a home looks in your favorite show, you need to go on the Internet. The online world is nearly endless in what it can offer, and you are sure to find something that suits your needs. It is a good idea to look for screenshots, as these will give an idea of how a home is modeled from several different angles. If images are not available, you may be able to at least find some kind of summary or other helpful information.
2. Watch the Shows Carefully
If you could not find any images of the decor online, or what you found was simply not enough, you will need to put in more work. The next time the show is on television, make sure that you are paying attention to the home and not the actors. If the episode is new this may be difficult; however, if it is a rerun that you have seen a few times, it will not be a loss if you miss out on some dialogue. If you need to, keep a pen and paper on your lap and sketch out the details.
3. Look for Similar Items at Local Stores or Online
The likelihood that you will find something that is exactly the same as an item on a show is low; some of these props may have been found at garage sales or were created exclusively. This does not mean that you should give up, however. It just means that you will have to get creative. If you cannot find a couch that is the exact shade of red, have it upholstered. So long as you find something that fits the spirit of the television show home, you should be good. Do not be afraid to experiment or try new things.
4. Talk to the Fans
You will not find a better source for information than the fans. These passionate individuals may know a television show like the back of their hand. They can tell you what actors made cameo appearances in certain episodes, what a person may have been wearing, and so on. It stands to reason, then, that they would be able to help you with the decor. There may be somebody down the street from you that has this information, but the Internet can also be a fruitful source. Do not push them to answer your questions, as this will only annoy them.
5. Exercise Patience and Understanding
Expecting everything to come together within a few hours or a few days is unrealistic. Putting together an entire room, or your entire home, with the goal of mirroring a television series home quickly is not realistic. No matter how badly you may want it or how impatient you are, unless you have access to magic it is not going to happen. It could take a long time, but it will be worth it in the end. Do not give up or be discouraged if you come across any problems, and you should be fine.
Ian B writes for Design 55 Online which specializes in Umbra homeware.
