“24” set decorator Cloudia Rebar talks about the inspiration for this season’s set.
By Diane Burley
27 February 2006
Nelson Cigar Floor Lamps in the study. All images courtesy of Cloudia Rebar.
George Nelson Ball lamp on credenza behind Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona table and chair.
A PURE CONTEMPORARY reader asked us if President Charles Logan’s retreat on Fox’s hit show “24”
was modeled after the mid-century modern designs of architect John Lautner. “24” is one of our favorite shows, and we couldn’t help but notice the gorgeous wood trim on doors, windows and walls, along with Lautner’s trademark merging of vista and architecture. So we called “24” set decorator Cloudia Rebar and asked her about the inspiration for this season’s set.
“Not Lautner specifically,” said Rebar. “It is a compilation of many of the elements of mid-century architecture.” Don’t look for any deep meaning between the surroundings and Logan’s rather timid character. “Mid-century is very chic right now and a timeless design concept. This was meant to be a long-time family home.”
Rebar shrugged off suggestions that Logan doesn’t seem the type to have a lipstick red sofa in his house. “That would be the First Lady’s influence,” she said, referring to the character played by actress Jean Smart. “Without the First Lady, the President’s taste would definitely be more to the neutrals, along with his equestrian interests.”
Teak patio chaise by Smith and Hawken brings out the period-specific planked wood walls.
The wood canopy and straight-lined pool are also very true to the period.
Nelson's Saucer Pendant in the dining room.
The “retreat” is actually a football field-sized soundstage that features nine venues. Meticulous attention to period detail was given to everything from the wall coverings to the horizontal pane windows. There are no hardwood floors though, for sound considerations. “We try to use the real mid-century pieces – since even the reproductions don’t have the same feel.” Rebar, whose film set credits include “Vanilla Sky,” noted that reproduction wood is slightly thicker – and doesn’t have the 40-year-old hue of aged-coloration. Still, when originals can’t be found, Rebar turns to Modernica, manufacturers of mid-century reproductions, which allows her the luxury of picking her own palette.
The First Lady’s suite is entered through wood doors with frosted glass cutouts, notable from either direction, and designed by Set Designer Joseph Hodges. Warm and soothing earth tones are energized with the lipstick red couch while an Eames chair and ottoman provide understated, tony elegance. In the living room, Barcelona chairs in dark caramel, and George Nelson lighting are scattered throughout. The pool and patio, featuring Smith & Hawkens teak furniture and Hodges-designed verdigris metal Arabian horses, are visible from the President’s office and living room.
From concept to shoot, Rebar may only have hours to find and assemble the necessary items. And, with only little more than a quarter of the series shot, chances are "24"-watchers will continue on our tour of mid-century modern classics.
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