5 Reasons Why Design Lovers Simply *Need* To Watch “Surface” on Apple TV+

Time Several Hours

Budget $ $$$

Skill Level

WORDS BY Kelsey Clark

Fill 1Created with Sketch.

Published on August 25, 2022

Let us start off by saying that Surface, now streaming on Apple TV+, doesn’t disappoint. This mysterious thriller has it all: mind-bending therapy sessions, a love triangle, hallucinogens (yes, really), and of course, lies, betrayal, and deception. 

When you add in a masterful performance by Gugu Mbatha-Raw as “Sophie” — the lead character attempting to piece her life together in the wake of a traumatic brain injury — plus the same producers behind Big Little Lies and Little Fires Everywhere, its binge-worthy status comes as no surprise.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw in her chic San Francisco townhome in Surface

But, as we wait with bated breath for the finale episode, we can’t help but obsess over something a bit unexpected: the interiors (we’re designers; it’s an occupational hazard). In fact, we’d argue that Sophie’s moody-luxe San Francisco townhouse was designed specifically with fall 2022 trends in mind: Parisian modern interiors, dark and moody paint, textured details, brass accents, ornate finishes, and sculptural lighting.

modern living room with blue velvet sectional

Ahead, Havenly designers take on the trending moody-luxe look inspired by “Sophie’s” stunning home. Step inside these original designs and shop our favorite pieces, just in time to get your space feeling dark and cozy (and a tad spooky) for fall 2022:

Fall Trend #1: Parisian Modern

Apple TV+ Surface Interiors

Boucle chairs in moody black bedroom by fireplace

First, the obvious: “Sophie’s” townhouse boasts breathtaking architectural features that many design lovers only dream of, including on-trend picture moulding, original fireplaces, storied hardwood floors, and crown moulding. Punctuated with chic, ultra-modern curved furniture, graphic abstract artwork, and brass accessories, the look is Parisian modern at its finest. And the inspiration behind our interpretation of “Sophie’s” moody-luxe bedroom.

It’s also a living example of what’s poised to be one of the biggest design trends of the decade: artfully mixing different design and furniture styles. There’s classic ornate mirrors set against sculptural side tables; a vintage dining buffet next to a post-modern table; a classic library featuring a mid-century style desk. It exemplifies everything we know and love about cutting edge interior design: the magic (and mystery) is in the mix.

Shop the Trend:

Parisian Modern decor

Visual Comfort Aerin Chandelier // Gwyneth Chair, Ivory Boucle // Luisa Hummingbird Mirror

Fall Trend #2: Moody Monochrome Paint

modern office with black paint

black fireplace with black paint walls

Cool, white-walled minimalism had an ironclad grip on the design world for the better part of a decade, and we’re pleased to report that the exact opposite is now trending for fall: dark and moody paint. True to form, “Sophie’s” gorgeous townhouse is saturated in on-trend navy, hints of emerald, and rich wood tones — an appropriate color palette for the brooding psychological thriller. We embraced both the complex hue and immersive paint application in our own designs. As you know, we love the cozy, monochrome look for added depth and drama.

Shop the Trend:

Dark paint colors

Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal // Clare Paint Current Mood // Benjamin Moore Hale Navy

Fall Trend #3: Textural Touches

dark and moody entryway design

chic Parisian Modern entryway design

ICYMI: we recently gave the traditional design rulebook a much-needed refresh, and devoted an entire section to texture alone. From trendy textured wallpaper (like this tonal application inspired by “Sophie’s” townhouse) to layers of jute, sisal, wicker, linen, glass, and beyond, natural materials are no longer reserved for distinctly farmhouse, coastal, or organic modern spaces. Even a moody-luxe San Francisco townhouse with traditional moulding and ultra modern furnishings sings with a touch of elevated texture. In our humble opinion, the trend is here to stay for fall 2022 – and beyond. Our version of this elevated entry is case in point.

Shop the Trend:

sculptural decor

Rough Cast Brass Pillar  // Meadow Coffee Table // Mantis Chandelier

Fall Trend #4: Brass Statements

dark living room with brass coffee table

The fashion set has been fixated on 80s-inspired gold jewelry for years, and design has followed suit with the interior equivalent: brass accents. From statement pieces, like coffee and side tables, ornate mirrors, and statement light fixtures, to small details, like curtain hardware and cabinet pulls, brass is the trending metal for fall 2022. Plus, when paired with cool tones like emerald and teal (like Sophie’s iconic velvet sectional), the finish adds a touch of sophisticated warmth and patina to any space. 

Need proof? See above for our take on “Sophie’s” moody-luxe living room, with an equally iconic (and shoppable) velvet teal sofa. *Adds to dream home wish list – along with townhouse lifestyle.*

Shop the Trend:

brass decor

Rough Cast Brass Pillar  // Meadow Coffee Table // Mantis Chandelier

Fall Trend #5: Sculptural Lighting

Surface contemporary dining room with wallpaper ceiling

modern dining room in Surface series

Lighting has moved in a distinctly sculptural direction in the last few years, and the Surface set designers clearly understood the assignment. From mid-century modern table and floor lamps to statement pendants, museum-style artwork illumination, and a classic shaded fixture (or ten), the moody luxe look truly comes to life with ambient lighting. And the designer in us can’t help but notice that there’s at least three-plus sources of lighting in each of “Sophie’s” swoon-worthy rooms, which makes our hearts sing. What’s a mysterious thriller without a little mood lighting, right? To bring home the look, shop our dining room iteration that pays homage to “Sophie’s” style – and secrets.

Shop the Trend:

sculptural lighting fixtures

White Onyx Sconce // 8-Light Chandelier // Brass Table Lamp

Stream “Surface on Apple TV+ while you still can, and bring home the moody-luxe look – starting with our exclusive collection. For even more one-on-one expert advice, take our style quiz and meet your dream interior designer. 

Words by Kelsey Clark