Introduction
Welcome to the enchanting world of Saltburn, where the madness unfolds within the walls of a magnificent English country house. In this article, we delve into the captivating story behind the filming location of Saltburn and explore the unique features that make this house an integral part of the narrative. Join us as we uncover the secrets of this hidden gem and discover how the production team transformed it into a setting that embodies both glamour and filth.
A Unique Location
The search for a truly exceptional house led writer/director Emerald Fennell and production designer Suzie Davies to a privately owned manor in Northamptonshire. This 127-room mansion, whose name remains undisclosed as part of the agreement, ticked all the boxes for Fennell’s vision. Unlike the repurposed National Trust properties commonly seen on screen, this house offered the filmmakers the freedom to make substantial changes to its interiors, providing a blank canvas for their creativity.
Davies recalls, “Usually in National Trust and English Heritage properties, you’re not allowed to paint anything or move pictures or augment or change anything. This family let us do quite a bit to the house and gave us free rein.” This level of creative control was crucial in establishing the authenticity of the setting and capturing the exact sense that Saltburn is a real place.
Steeped in History
The actual house, which dates back to around 1300, holds a rich history that adds to its allure. The site itself traces its origins back to 1066, and over the centuries, the house has undergone various transformations. Notably, in the 1700s, it received a lavish Baroque façade during a refurbishment. These historical elements blended seamlessly with the film’s setting in 2006, as many of the existing rooms, the square pond, the chapel, and the gardens were utilized.
To enhance the visual appeal, the production team incorporated topiary and contemporary art and sculptures into the house. Some of the artwork was created by the film’s art department, while permission was obtained to reproduce pieces by renowned artists such as Ryan Mosley and Colin Harris. Additionally, film artist Jason Line contributed portraits of the Catton family, which adorned the walls throughout the house.
The House as a Character
In Saltburn, the house itself takes on a character of its own, reflecting the story’s themes and adding depth to the narrative. Production designer Suzie Davies meticulously curated every detail, ensuring that each room served the overarching plot. From the dining rooms to the boys’ bedrooms, every space underwent alterations to align with the storytelling requirements.
The dining rooms, for instance, were consolidated into one, with the family’s existing table serving as the centerpiece. Davies introduced changeable covers for the chairs, allowing flexibility in creating different atmospheres. The use of red curtains in this room was deliberate, adding a specific ambiance during a pivotal scene.
Sensual Transformations
In one of the house’s ornate reading rooms, which in real life serves as the owners’ breakfast room, the Catton family finds solace. To transform this space into a TV room, Davies removed the carpet, repainted the walls and woodwork, and added silk panels. The room was then adorned with over-the-top, bright contemporary colors, which accentuated the family’s flamboyant lifestyle. A combination of real and custom artwork adorned the walls, further enhancing the visual appeal of the space.
Bedrooms Altered for the Narrative
The boys’ bedrooms, interconnected by a newly installed bathroom, underwent significant alterations to suit the story’s needs. Davies painted the walls a vibrant red and incorporated hanging tapestries to create a lived-in atmosphere. Realistic elements such as dirty clothes and used glasses were added to further enhance the authenticity of the space. The elegant bathtub, designed to accommodate actor Jacob Elordi’s towering height, was constructed from modeled fiberglass, complete with ornate taps and claw feet.
The Maze and Its Illusion
One of the standout features of Saltburn is the maze, which plays a pivotal role in the film’s climactic party scene. While it wasn’t possible to construct the entire maze, maze designer Adrian Fisher collaborated with the production team to create its shape and structure. The center of the maze features a minotaur sculpture by sculptor Nicola Hicks, while the connecting corridors were constructed using potted hedging. CGI was employed to complete the rest of the maze, adding a touch of mystery to the setting.
The Messy Aftermath
Photo: Amazon Studios
Following a wild party thrown by the Catton family, the estate is left in disarray. Both the interiors and the grounds bear witness to the aftermath of an unforgettable night. With meticulous planning and a passionate team, the set designers created a chaotic scene that perfectly captured the aftermath of a wild party. Greens, sculptures, and even a makeshift nightclub were meticulously arranged to bring the messy aftermath to life. It was a wild and exhilarating experience that truly brought the story to life.
Creating an Atmosphere of Glamour and Filth
While the house’s architecture and decor exude magnificence, not everything on screen is intended to evoke beauty. Emerald Fennell envisioned a house that had a texture of life, filled with elements that showcased both glamour and filth. Ashtrays filled with cigarette butts, plates caked with leftovers, and crystal glasses knocked to the floor all contributed to the lived-in feeling. The production team even considered the house’s smell, adding fresh flowers to enhance the authenticity of the environment.
Effortless Style and Unsettling Disregard
Davies explains the creative approach to the decorative elements, stating, “It’s about the effortless style and the flamboyance. We needed it to feel desirable and almost out of reach. But then there’s a slight disregard to everything that adds to the slight unease as the story gets more unhinged.” The initial aim was to create images reminiscent of Caravaggio paintings, enticing viewers with a sense of envy. However, as the story unfolds, the paintings metaphorically melt and distort, mirroring the disarray within the house.
Unveiling the Clutter of Everyday Life
Photo: Prime
Fennell adds, “To the people who live here, it’s just home, and it’s just funny. These grand things are just the clutter of your everyday life.” The house, with its grandeur and opulence, becomes the backdrop for the Catton family’s ordinary existence. Busts in the great hall adorned with silly hats epitomize this unique blend of grandeur and humor. It is precisely this juxtaposition that infuses Saltburn with its distinctive charm, making it a place that feels simultaneously accessible and out of reach.
Conclusion
The enchanting home of Saltburn provides the perfect backdrop for the madness that unfolds within its walls. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and meticulous attention to detail, this English country house becomes a character in its own right. From the carefully curated rooms to the transformative alterations made for the narrative, every aspect of the house serves to enhance the storytelling experience. Saltburn is a testament to the power of a well-chosen filming location, setting the stage for a captivating and immersive cinematic journey.