Nights in Rodanthe
Yesterday, my mom and I went to see the movie Nights in Rodanthe, starring Dianne Lane and Richard Gere. It was the perfect Sunday afternoon chick flick for a rainy day. I really enjoyed the movie but just to prove what a design nerd I am, I was more interested in the set design than I was in Richard Gere. Most of the movie took place in a large beachfront home adorned with a multitude of cobalt blue shutters and not another home in site. A maze of decks connected steps that landed your toes right in the tide. The beach-side inn was picture perfect inside and out.
The set design and colors followed the story closely. The main characters felt trapped in their current existence and their suburban homes reflected this with stark colors and overt orderliness. In contrast, the beach house rooms exuded warmth and a multi-cultural family history celebrated in pattern and color. I would like to share some shots from the movie and show you what I mean.
Dianne Lane at her home in the burbs. She has just had a run-in with her estranged husband as he comes to pick up the kids. The design is formal and the walls a cool white.
After a long drive, Dianne arrives at her best friend's beach house where she will house sit. Notice the colorful wallpaper, lavender sheers and antique furnishings.
Richard Gere flashes back to a run-in with his ex-wife as he drives to Rodanthe. Again, the white walls and formal design.
Dianne Lane shows Richard Gere to his room. A very different use of blue. It's a bit sad but comfortable at the same time.
The warm dining room feels like golden sunshine and allows the antiques to take center stage.
The kitchen sported the perfect shade of retro aqua.
I am sure I was not the only woman at the movie theatre who wanted to pack up their bags and several good books and head for Rodanthe. Movies (and Richard Gere) have a way of doing that. But please think about how you design your home and for whom. I would encourage you to take your time and choose colors that relax and support you and your family because your home is not a showplace, it’s where life actually happens, drama and all. 
~Lorrie
Tags: My Favorite Things
March 20th, 2009 at 6:11 pm
lol im glad i wasnt the only one, through the entire movie i kept thinking of how i could decorate a house like that. Its so beautiful, eclectic, and relaxing which is surprising when you think of how many different colors, textures, and patterns are used in the different rooms. i am absolutely in love with it though!
March 28th, 2009 at 8:24 am
I so loved the set design…the movie was just okay. I have been a mad woman trying to find those art glass beaded door curtains. I have not had any luck…can anyone help???
March 29th, 2009 at 10:59 am
Wow, that might be a real specality item. You may want to contact a glass studio and ask if they could make it for you. Then you could choose any colors you like. I know there are some nice glass studios in Benicia, CA and Asheville, NC among other places.
~Lorrie
April 6th, 2009 at 10:43 am
I can’t stop thinking about her painting in the living room when she is talking to his cute, sad son. Can anyone tell me who that artist is and those beaded curtains…WOW!!!
June 17th, 2009 at 11:51 pm
I have been going mad trying to find out where I can get the wall paper in the blue room. It creates a feel that I would like to recreate for my studio. I have searched the net over and haven’t been able to find the smallest hint. Any ideas?
Amber
June 19th, 2009 at 2:07 pm
Hi Amber! Yes that paper is lovely. Were you able to get a good photo of it? If you have, then please send it to me at questions@mydesignsecrets.com nd I will try to find some options for you. I think it’s a blue on blue damask?
~Lorrie
July 19th, 2009 at 5:48 pm
help! need to know who or where can I find those glass door curtains Bonnie
August 1st, 2009 at 12:42 pm
I am also searching for the beaded curtain from the movie Nightsin Rodanthe. Has anoyne had any luck finding those?
December 30th, 2009 at 12:31 pm
I am looking for the large wood/driftwood piece that was on the wall in one of the scenes. I can’t find the photo but love that piece. Can anyone help?
December 31st, 2009 at 4:17 pm
The painting in Diane’s living room when she’s talking with James Franco is by Jacob Cooley, a NC based painter.
January 7th, 2010 at 9:09 pm
where can i find the shell curtains that were in the movie appearing to divide a room
February 14th, 2010 at 3:42 pm
Has anyone located the painting in her suburban living room with his son or the curtains yet I just found you guys and we all love the same items.
Thanks
March 11th, 2010 at 11:20 am
Still searching for the beautiful Shell Curtain hanging between the kitchen and Dining room in the movie Nights in Rodanthe. ANYONE????
March 11th, 2010 at 11:41 am
Hi Michelle, I have not come across anything yet but I will be sure to let you know when I do! Everyone else, please feel free to chime in!
~Lorrie
May 29th, 2010 at 12:35 pm
looking for Diane Lane’s suburban home iron bed
June 14th, 2010 at 11:44 pm
I thought I was the only person in the world searching for that door curtain. (With no luck) I’ve been collecting shells for years and they are all beautiful so I thought I might try to make one myself. The thing is I can’t find anywhere to buy seaglass. Does anyone have any ideas please. The only seaglass I find here on Phillip Island, Australia is the odd broken beer bottle. Regards to like minded people, Leigh
June 15th, 2010 at 3:35 pm
There are many different sources of seaglass on the web at a variety of prices. Here is a well-priced one that I used recently. Very good customer service!
http://www.crystalrivergems.com/products/glass/beachseaglass/seaglass.html
~Lorrie
July 4th, 2010 at 2:12 pm
Any ideas on the wallpaper used in the second photo above? I haven’t been able to locate it online for purchase. Thanks much!