As we approach the much-anticipated season two finale of the show “Severance,” fans find themselves eagerly awaiting what’s next, grappling with the uncertainty of a third season. In the meantime, viewers aren’t just captivated by the storyline but are also keenly dissecting the series’ distinctive set design. With such a strong emphasis on innovative and retro-futuristic interiors, it’s no surprise that these elements have garnered a dedicated following among design enthusiasts.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Production Designer: Jeremy Hindle
Set Decorator: David Schlesinger
Chair Designer: Marc Newson
The production design by Jeremy Hindle, along with set decoration by David Schlesinger, crafts environments that feel both familiar and otherworldly. The series cleverly incorporates mid-century modern pieces that exude a retro-futuristic vibe, seamlessly blending style with functionality. Take, for example, the Nimrod Chair by Marc Newson. Its futuristic yet playful design choice fits perfectly within the break room and family spaces, adding a whimsical yet modern flair. Not only is it visually appealing, but its unique construction process in Italy using blow-moulding sets it apart.
Additionally, the show spotlights diverse seating options such as the Fardos Lounge Chair by Ricardo Fasanello. Situated in Mr. Milchick’s office, this piece presents a cushiony, almost inviting allure even in a space where it’s unlikely to be frequently used. First introduced in the 1970s, this chair is a testament to timeless design, still being produced by Fasanello’s atelier in Brazil decades later. Its unique form, composed of large foam rolls secured with straps, captures the essence of experimental 70s designs.
Among the standout elements is how utilitarian objects are transformed into artistic statements, such as the Dansk Pepper Mills by Jens Quistgaard. At Burt and Fields’s residence, these teak-crafted salt-and-pepper grinders turn everyday kitchenware into pieces of conversation, reminiscent of chess pieces dotting their cabinetry and highlighting the strategic blend of design with daily functionality. Similarly, Dieter Rams’ contribution is evident through the 620 Chair Programme, a piece whose unpretentious, hard-shell design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing in various settings, merging comfort with a restrained elegance.
Further enriching the show’s visual narrative, pieces like Joe Colombo’s Universale Chair serve a dual purpose of aesthetic appeal and practical use—displayed through its role in a pivotal escape scene. The chair’s plastic durability and stackability highlight its innovative advantage in real-life usage. The attention to lighting fixtures, such as the Stilnovo Triedro Pendant and the Notos Light No. 1 by Ben & Aja Blanc, adds layered dimensions to the atmosphere, with the latter’s horsehair tube shade delivering a distinct and moody ambiance over a dining space.
This intricate blend of set design, combining historical context with modern sensibility, not only complements the show’s narrative but stands alone as a rich exploration of form, texture, and timelessness. The crafted environments within “Severance” are more than just backgrounds—they are integral to storytelling, providing a visual feast of mid-century and futuristic design elements that keep viewers and design aficionados alike engaged and eager for more.
