Creating Interior Atmosphere: mise-en-scène and interior design

Abstract

This interesting and useful book, part of a series of visual arts textbooks by Bloomsbury, corrals a wide range of design tactics and strategies which affect the phenomenological condition of interior space. Through this book, Jean Whitehead attempts to deconstruct the ways in which interiors can “whisper softly in our ear, whispering suggestions, conjuring a mood, evoking emotions and responses... the experiential qualities of the interior, in other words, what is it like to actually be in?” (pp 10 & 18). Whitehead makes a particular point of referencing film to emphasize the nature of the interior – especially the notion of mise-en-sc ene and the use of lighting, surface, props, scale, and color to propel a narrative and engage the viewer. Thus film classics such as Nosferatu, The Cabinet of Dr Caligari, A Clockwork Orange, Playtime and The Cook, The Thief, His Wife & Her Lover receive some examination, as well as notable interiors by, for example, DillerþScofidio, TraastþGruson, Steven Holl and even Horace Walpole. Through seven chapters, each comprised of a generic overview and short case studies, Whitehead introduces readers to the manner in which adventures in, say, surfaces or special effects can seduce or otherwise affect a viewer/user. As a quick assessment of the value of this book, I would certainly recommend it as a reader for undergraduate students of interiors. If any diligent student read this book, they would encounter some of the key reference points of phenomenology, perception and experience (Merleau-Ponty, Bachelard, Benjamin, Tanizaki, Baudrillard and others). Further, they will be presented with a set of case studies from designers, architects, artists and film-makers with whom we might all hope that our students are familiar. I do find the textbook format awkward, however; it is occasionally patronizing, often repetitive and structured in a way that allows only a brief investigation into the issues or studies at hand. Each chapter comprises an introduction or commentary, followed by case studies and conclusion. Too often the case studies are brief, and are more descriptive than detailed analysis, and the conclusions tend towards summarizing, or even repeating, what has already been outlined. Texts are broken down into sub-sets, which can feel artificial or only ever-so-slightly distinct. Sections on “Mise-en-sc ene – a definition,” “What is an interior mise-en-sc ene?” and “Interior mise-en-sc ene – a definition” follow each other quickly, creating an In te rio rs