Argomenti trattati
If you haven’t started watching the new Netflix limited series ‘Sirens’, you might want to reconsider your evening plans. Not only is Julianne Moore mesmerizing as the eccentric conservationist Michaela Kell, but the stunning cliffside mansion she inhabits with her hedge fund mogul husband, Peter (played by Kevin Bacon), is a character in its own right. The house steals the spotlight just as much as the intense sibling rivalry between Devon (the incredible Meghann Fahy from ‘White Lotus’) and her sister/assistant, Simone (Milly Alcock from ‘House of the Dragon’). But what makes this mansion so captivating? Where is it located, what are its secrets, and can we ever dream of living in such a place?
The fictional paradise of Port Haven
The Kells’ luxurious mansion is set on the fictional New England island of Port Haven, which seems to be accessible only by ferry, yacht, or perhaps a private helicopter. It gives off major Nantucket vibes, but interestingly, the entire series was filmed in the quaint New York towns of Northport, Lloyd Harbor, and Southold. Now, Lloyd Harbor is not just any suburb; it’s home to celebrities like Christie Brinkley and Angelina Jolie, who have both graced this posh enclave with their presence. The breathtaking coastal scenes in ‘Sirens’ were shot at Caumsett State Historic Park, a stunning locale that adds a layer of authenticity to the show.
A historic backdrop
Speaking of Caumsett State Historic Park, it’s fascinating to know that this former country club built in 1921 was utilized for some of the mansion’s dramatic exterior shots, thanks to the magic of CGI. Originally designed as a hunting preserve, this historic site now operates as the headquarters for the New York State Park system and is open to the public—yes, you can visit! Imagine strolling through the same grounds that served as a backdrop for your favorite series. The park’s picturesque landscapes enhance the show’s aesthetic, making each scene feel rich in history and beauty.
Building the dream mansion
To create the illusion of a billionaire’s clifftop residence, the production team had to get a bit creative. They constructed elaborate sets on the grounds of a private home near Northport. According to production designer John Paino, the existing house was “not as large as we needed,” so they added several extensions, pergolas, and even a turret! The aesthetic they aimed for was one of eerie perfection—where wealth creates a polished veneer that almost feels unsettling. Paino noted that “everything is clean and everything is the best, top-of-the-line model, even in the guest house and staff quarters.” It’s an interesting take on how extreme wealth can sometimes feel just a bit too perfect, isn’t it?
The interior magic
When it comes to the interior of the Kells’ mansion, much of it was actually constructed on set at Steiner Studios in Brooklyn. This means that while we may be swooning over the opulent design, it’s all a controlled environment. I remember when I first saw the interiors—each room is adorned with exquisite detail, showcasing a level of luxury that feels almost unattainable. But isn’t it fun to imagine what it would be like to live in a place like this? Perhaps we can take inspiration from the design elements and create our own versions of the Cliff House in our humble abodes.
Can we dream of such luxury?
So, as we dive deeper into the world of ‘Sirens’, it becomes clear that this isn’t just a series about rich people living glamorous lives; it’s a peek into a lifestyle that many of us can only dream of. Yet, there’s something deeply relatable about the characters and their struggles. The juxtaposition of their lavish lifestyle against personal challenges makes for compelling storytelling.
So here’s to dreaming big, Kikis! Maybe one day we’ll all build our own versions of cliffside mansions, or at least fill our homes with the same kind of creativity and spirit that the Kells’ residence embodies.