By Rachael Thompson Interiors 10.12.2023

#WesAnderson: How to Get the Whimsical Aesthetic in Your Home

Create a dreamlike universe for yourself.

Alluring, opulent, and nostalgic, the imitable sets conceived by director Wes Anderson make us swoon. From the whimsical The Grand Budapest Hotel to the nostalgic The Royal Tenenbaums, each film is visually rich and highly stylised featuring quirky and idiosyncratic details that lure in viewers and offer design inspo aplenty.

And while his unique style is nothing new, recently it's been embraced by TikTok users to the umpteenth degree, and we're loving it. But why has the Anderson aesthetic suddenly become social media's latest obsession and how can you get the look in your home? Below, we're answering both.

Why is Wes Anderson trending?

If you've hopped on social media recently, chances are you've come across the 'You better not act like you're in a Wes Anderson film' posts where users reimagine their lives in the aesthetic of the director's iconic style.

This trend started just before the release of Anderson's latest film, Asteroid City, a science fiction romantic comedy-drama film set in a desert town of the same name. The newly-released film stars big names including Tom Hanks, Scarlett Johannsson, and Margot Robbie.

TikToker Ava Williams kickstarted the trend by documenting her train journey from Connecticut to New York City in Anderson's style with symmetry, tableau staging, and a vintage filter. Since then #wesanderson videos have amassed over 2.2 billion views on the app.

How to Make Your House Look Like a Wes Anderson Set

1. Go all out with colour

Colour theory is central to Anderson's films and the easiest and most impactful way to get the director's look in your home. Each movie has a specific colour scheme that has been consistently applied throughout the sets and costumes. These tones help create a dream-like atmosphere and a whimsical aesthetic.

Whether it's the turmeric-laced bedroom in The Darjeeling Limited or the dreamy pastel pink, red, and blue in The Grand Budapest Hotel, if there's one rule to follow, it's to not shy away from colour.

You could opt for our Paprika Bedding Set and a pair of matching lampshades in your bedroom, and/or pastel pink wallpaper in your bathroom with Pink Clay towels – it's all about swathing your home in colour.

2. Embrace different eras

When it comes to fitting out your space, there are a few different design styles to embrace. Anderson leans heavily on furniture that is '70s, antique, or Art Noveau in style. Don't be scared to mix them!

Use velvet-upholstered seating, antique tables, pleated vintage lampshades, and coloured carpet/rugs to create a visually rich space with its own unique look.

3. Symmetrical layout

If you've watched any of Anderson's films you'll have noticed they're frequently shot front-on to enhance the symmetrical sets. These carefully composed shots create a sense of balance and order – perfect for a home!

Start by establishing a focal point, be it a fireplace, a kitchen island, a bed, a window, or a sofa. From here you can choose items with the same visual weight to flank the focal point.

4. Quirky details

Pay attention to small details that can make a big impact.

Consider displaying quirky pieces in your home to spark interest. This could be a curated collection of vintage cameras, vintage books, antique toys, or old records, a vintage typewriter or telephone. The aim is to create an aesthetic that is intriguing and unique – a vibe that's central to Anderson's worlds.

Vintage-inspired doorknobs, colourful cabinet handles, or unique drawer pulls to elevate the overall aesthetic of your home are also worth adding.

5. Create a gallery wall

Hang vintage photographs and paintings you've collected over the years à la The Royal Tenenbaums ballroom. Mix and match frames, colours, and styles for an eclectic display that exudes history and charm.

6. Go bold with patterns

From the zebra wallpaper in The Royal Tenenbaums to the floral curtains in The French Dispatch, bold patterns reign supreme in Anderson's films. Look for curtains, throw pillows, upholstered furniture, and rugs with statement patterns, floral motifs, or retro designs. Mix and match different patterns while keeping the colour palette cohesive.