Architecture News

In the latest installment of “American Horror Story: 13,” the narrative weaves a chilling tale where the infamous number 13 plays a central role. This season sees a confluence of past story arcs, focusing on a sinister New York City penthouse that serves as a devilish sanctuary. Balancing this dark setting is the eagerly awaited return of a fan-favorite locale: Miss Robichaux's Academy for Exceptional Young Ladies, originally featured in “AHS: Coven.” The academy, a beacon of matriarchal magic, stands in stark contrast to the penthouse’s oppressive atmosphere, providing a visual representation of the eternal struggle between good and evil, as envisioned by production designer Anu Schwartz.

Schwartz and his team faced a monumental challenge in meticulously rebuilding Miss Robichaux’s Academy for "American Horror Story: 13." After more than a decade since its original appearance in "AHS: Coven," all original sets had been dismantled, and critical design details like paint swatches and detailed plans were lost to time. Through diligent research, including poring over old photographs and securing a copy of the original plans from a Disney production archive, Schwartz was able to guide the recreation of the academy's distinct architectural and interior elements, including custom fireplaces and ceiling medallions, to perfectly recapture its unique charm and mystique.

The Intricate Revival of Miss Robichaux's Academy

The production team behind "American Horror Story: 13" embarked on an ambitious project to bring Miss Robichaux's Academy back to life. This undertaking was particularly significant as the academy, a key location from "AHS: Coven," had left a lasting impression on fans. Production designer Anu Schwartz, keen to honor the series' rich history while introducing new elements, saw this as an exciting opportunity to connect previous narratives. Despite the original sets being long gone, Schwartz's commitment to authenticity meant delving deep into the archives to meticulously recreate every detail of the beloved institution, ensuring it resonated with both returning viewers and the cast.

The task of reconstructing the academy’s interiors was a journey into the past, as Schwartz discovered that none of the original materials or design specifications from "Coven" had been preserved. He collaborated with Mark Worthington, the initial production designer, who provided crucial photographic records. Schwartz dedicated himself to analyzing these images, zooming in to discern every minute detail, from the color palette of the whitewashed walls to the unique profiles of the furniture. Even the antique piano, which had been played by Stevie Nicks in the original season, was sourced locally in New York City through a stroke of luck, becoming a symbol of the team's dedication to historical accuracy and fan satisfaction. This extensive effort culminated in a remarkably faithful recreation that left the cast in awe, reinforcing the immersive experience of the show's universe.

Crafting the Aesthetic: Blending Past and Present in 'AHS: 13'

The design of "AHS: 13" skillfully merges the eerie ambiance of a modern New York City penthouse, envisioned as a sophisticated lair for evil, with the nostalgic charm of Miss Robichaux's Academy. Production designer Anu Schwartz's guiding principle for the penthouse was to imagine a refined, wealthy dwelling befitting a centuries-old Satan, where every detail seduces and tempts. This stark contrast is essential to the season's narrative, creating a visual language that underscores the epic battle between good and evil. The challenge was not just to build sets but to imbue them with narrative meaning, making each space a character in itself within the show’s overarching themes.

Schwartz and his team had a mere six weeks to complete the intricate rebuild of Miss Robichaux’s Academy at Broadway Stages in Brooklyn, a timeline he candidly described as “bonkers.” This intensive period required rapid decision-making and creative problem-solving, as they scoured secondhand markets for period-appropriate décor and furniture to match the original aesthetic. The effort to recreate elements such as the fireplaces and ceiling medallions involved tracking down original vendors, while even the specific shade of whitewash for the walls necessitated extensive camera tests and color analysis. The meticulous attention to detail even extended to a subtle nod to the season's title: the 13th spindle on the academy's iconic staircase was intentionally turned upside down, a small homage that delighted the cast and deepened the show's immersive world.

Embracing a philosophy where nature reigns supreme, Axel Vervoordt has artfully redesigned a grand chalet in a beloved Swiss Alpine destination. The designer, inspired by the profound tranquility and majestic peaks encountered during his annual retreats in the Swiss Alps, has infused this spirit into his latest creation. This project, a testament to his long-standing collaboration with the homeowners, sought to capture the essence of authenticity, calm, and a deep connection to the breathtaking alpine environment.

The transformation of this nearly 10,000-square-foot chalet was a meticulous three-and-a-half-year endeavor, undertaken by Vervoordt’s team in partnership with the local Swiss firm, Comina Architecture. The challenge involved navigating stringent building codes and seasonal construction limitations while preserving the chalet's expansive scale and enhancing its atmospheric depth. Vervoordt’s signature restrained approach ensured the interventions were subtle yet impactful, allowing the dwelling to harmonize with its surroundings rather than imposing upon them. This careful balance prevented the chalet from succumbing to the ostentatious trends often seen in high-altitude luxury properties, creating a sense of natural belonging, as if the structure had always been there.

To foster this enduring quality, Vervoordt strategically opted for reclaimed and historically rich materials over contemporary alternatives. Antique 18th-century Swiss wooden ceilings were painstakingly reassembled to fit the primary living spaces, while 19th-century pine paneling, reminiscent of mountain cabins, adorns corridors and guest rooms. The flooring features ancient 16th-century granite blocks and Luzerne stone from Northern Italy, each bearing centuries of natural patina, alongside wide, bleached oak planks. The interior further blends artistic expression with architectural integrity, notably in the living room where a grand fireplace, crafted from the rugged, unpolished backsides of 18th-century carved stones, evokes the raw beauty of mountain rocks. This space, the heart of the home, is furnished with pieces from the Axel Vervoordt Home Collection, including a custom Japanese elmwood coffee table and a dining table featuring antique walnut and bespoke industrial iron legs. Complementing this design narrative is a remarkable art collection, featuring works by Japanese pioneer Kazuo Shiraga, Italian master Lucio Fontana, Korean artists Lee Ufan and Chung Chang-Sup, and Belgian Jef Verheyen, which engage in a compelling dialogue with the chalet’s timber and stone elements.

This magnificent alpine retreat stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design, seamlessly blending historical materials, contemporary art, and an unwavering respect for the natural world. It reminds us that true luxury often lies in simplicity, authenticity, and a deep connection to our environment. By honoring the past and embracing the present, we can create spaces that not only shelter us but also elevate our spirits, fostering tranquility and a profound sense of belonging.