In Joachim Trier's critically acclaimed film 'Sentimental Value,' the family residence in Oslo stands as a silent yet profound character, its evolving interiors narrating decades of familial life, loss, and memory. Set designer Jørgen Stangebye Larsen meticulously crafted the home's aesthetic transitions, ensuring each era authentically reflected its period while underscoring the film's poignant themes.
The narrative begins in the 1990s, where the home's exterior, a striking red and black 'Dragestil' structure, shows signs of age, mirroring the family's journey. Inside, a rich tapestry of art and furniture, including an 'Arco' lamp and a Bruno Mathsson chair, defines the space. As the film delves into the past, Larsen's design prowess shines through. The 1930s interiors, meticulously recreated from historical archives, burst with vibrant patterns and upholstered furniture, offering a glimpse into an earlier, less romanticized era. By the 1950s, the house adopts a brighter, airier feel, with neutral tones and pale wood reflecting a new phase of family life, visually emphasizing the role of light—a significant inspiration for Gustav, the family's filmmaker patriarch.
The house's design shifts dramatically when Gustav's aunt resides there between the 1960s and 1980s, introducing bolder colors, eclectic patterns, and prominent artworks by Norwegian painters. The 1990s see Gustav and his family return, blending new furnishings with historical elements and a mix of global design influences, from Alvar Aalto furniture to Marimekko prints and Ikea pieces. The use of Samoa Remy's 'Oscillation between the very far and the very close' tapestry in the therapist's office symbolizes the interconnectedness of family through time. Larsen’s personal experiences and detailed research infuse the set with a profound sense of realism, making the house not just a backdrop, but a living archive of human emotion.
The film masterfully illustrates how our living spaces absorb and reflect our lives. Just as the house in 'Sentimental Value' becomes an archive of memories and emotions, our own homes hold echoes of our past, reminding us of the enduring power of place and connection. They serve as silent witnesses to our growth, our sorrows, and our joys, reinforcing the idea that beauty and meaning are often found in the layers of history woven into our everyday surroundings.