Exploring the Eerie + Whimsical Interior Design of “Coraline” and Shop the Look

This blog post contains affiliate links. For more information please visit our disclaimer page.

When it comes to creating a memorable setting, few films can rival the enchanting and slightly eerie atmosphere of the house in the movie Coraline. Directed by Henry Selick and based on Neil Gaiman's bestselling novel, this stop-motion animated film takes us on a journey into a parallel world filled with vibrant colors, fantastical elements, and a sense of perpetual curiosity. One crucial element that I remember is the interior design of the house itself. In this blog post, we'll delve into the captivating details that make Coraline's home one of the memorable interiors of the fall season.

Photo from MovieStillsDB

A Familiar Palette with a Twist

At first glance, the house appears to adhere to a traditional Victorian style. However, as Coraline navigates through her surroundings, the colors reveal themselves to be far from ordinary. From the moment she steps inside, she is greeted by a vibrant foyer, featuring walls adorned in rich emerald green wallpaper with intricate patterns reminiscent of floral motifs. This color choice evokes a sense of mystery and sets the tone for the adventures that lie ahead.

Photo from MovieStillsDB

Quirky Details from Every Angle

Every corner of Coraline's house is meticulously crafted with imagination and a keen attention to detail. The vividly colorful hodgepodge of furnishings showcases an eclectic mix of vintage and unconventional items. The attention to detail extends even to smaller elements such as buttons—a motif that repeats throughout the film. From the button-shaped doorknob to the button-eyed rag dolls, these little touches add an element of creepiness that heightens the atmosphere.

Photo from MovieStillsDB

The Other World's Alluring Paradox

The parallel universe Coraline discovers, aptly named the "Other World," reveals a house that mirrors her own. However, this alternate version is a distorted utopia, where everything is seemingly perfect. The interior design of the Other World house is a dazzling spectacle of bright colors, sparkling chandeliers, and a cheerful ambiance that feels both inviting and unsettling. The intricate details blend seamlessly with the fantastical elements, creating a visually stunning feast for the eyes.

Photo from MovieStillsDB

Reel to Real

While the interior design in Coraline's house leans heavily on fantasy elements, it still offers valuable inspiration for real-life applications. The vibrant color palettes, attention to detail, and overall whimsical feeling can be incorporated into home decor to inject a touch of magic and creativity into our everyday lives. Whether it's using unexpected color combinations or incorporating unique furnishings, the design of Coraline's house can inspire one to embrace their own personal style and foster an environment that sparks joy and curiosity.


The interior design of the house in the Coraline movie shows how interiors can lend to setting a whimsical or eerie scene. The blend of vibrant colors, quirky details, and fantastical elements creates an enchanting atmosphere that captivates viewers of all ages. From the moment Coraline steps into her home, we are transported into a world where imagination knows no bounds. Think about an “other” way of designing, that lends more curiosity and interest to it’s users.

XO,

READ OUR LATEST BLOG POSTS:

Aidan Lammers

I am an emerging interior designer by education and longtime artist. As my first blog and ecommerce shop, The Curative Company, LLC has been created for you with much passion to show the curation of design from the perspective of a creative. Learn more about my company and I here.

Previous
Previous

Sociology Theory for Socially Sustainable Interior Design and Placemaking

Next
Next

Zaha Hadid: The Radical Architect + Interior Designer