The heart of Only Murders in the Building, both figuratively and literally, is The Belnord, a majestic apartment building located at 225 West 86th Street in New York City’s Upper West Side. While the show embellishes its interiors for dramatic effect, the iconic exterior and courtyard are undeniably real, grounding the show in a palpable sense of New York history and architecture.
The Real-World Arconia: The Belnord
The Belnord, a full-block building completed in 1909, is much more than just a backdrop; it’s a character in itself. Its grandeur, European-style courtyard, and imposing facade contribute significantly to the show’s atmosphere of mystery and intrigue. The building’s history as a home to New York’s elite also adds a layer of socio-economic commentary, hinting at the diverse lives hidden behind its grand doors.
While the exterior shots consistently feature The Belnord, the interiors are largely filmed on soundstages at Silvercup Studios in Long Island City, Queens. This allows for greater control over the lighting, set design, and camera angles, enabling the showrunners to create the specific aesthetic they envision for each apartment. However, some interior scenes have been filmed within The Belnord itself, blurring the lines between reality and fiction.
Beyond The Belnord: Exploring the Filming Locations
While The Belnord provides the foundational setting, Only Murders in the Building isn’t confined to just one location. The show subtly incorporates various other New York City landmarks and lesser-known gems to flesh out the world of Oliver, Charles, and Mabel.
Upper West Side Charm
The series strategically uses the Upper West Side’s characteristic brownstones, cafes, and parks to establish a strong sense of place. These locations, often glimpsed in passing or used for brief scenes, contribute to the show’s overall authenticity and charm.
Beyond Manhattan: Queens and Beyond
While the show heavily features Manhattan, some scenes venture into other boroughs. As mentioned, Silvercup Studios in Queens serves as the primary location for interior filming. This allows the production team to create intricate sets that wouldn’t be possible to construct within a real apartment building, such as Mabel’s sprawling, art-filled loft.
FAQs: Unveiling the Mysteries Behind the Scenes
Here are some frequently asked questions about the filming locations of Only Murders in the Building, shedding light on the show’s production secrets and offering a deeper appreciation for its visual storytelling.
FAQ 1: Can I visit The Belnord?
Yes, you can visit The Belnord! However, remember that it is a private residential building. Respect the residents’ privacy and avoid loitering or attempting to enter the building without permission. You can admire its exterior from the street and take photos from a respectful distance.
FAQ 2: How did they find The Belnord?
The production team was reportedly looking for a building with a distinctive courtyard and classic New York architecture. The Belnord perfectly fit the bill, offering a visually stunning and historically significant backdrop for the series.
FAQ 3: Are the apartments in the show identical to the real apartments in The Belnord?
No. While the exterior is authentic, the interior apartments are largely fictionalized. The production designers created the apartments on soundstages, drawing inspiration from real New York apartments but ultimately crafting unique spaces that serve the narrative.
FAQ 4: Did the residents of The Belnord participate in the show?
While some residents may have agreed to allow exterior shots, the vast majority of interior filming, including any scenes within apartments, took place on soundstages. The production team likely worked closely with The Belnord’s management to coordinate filming and minimize disruption.
FAQ 5: How much of the show is actually filmed on location versus on a set?
The show relies heavily on a combination of location and set filming. Exterior shots of The Belnord and other New York City landmarks are filmed on location, while the majority of interior scenes are filmed on meticulously constructed sets at Silvercup Studios. This blend allows for both authenticity and creative control.
FAQ 6: Were there any challenges filming in a real apartment building like The Belnord?
Yes, filming in a real apartment building presents numerous challenges, including logistical hurdles, noise restrictions, and the need to respect the residents’ privacy. The production team likely worked closely with The Belnord’s management to mitigate these challenges and ensure a smooth filming process.
FAQ 7: Where is the Dimas’s jewel store located?
While the show doesn’t explicitly state the jewel store’s location, it’s likely situated somewhere in Manhattan’s Diamond District, an area known for its concentration of jewelry businesses. No specific store was used for filming, as the interior was created on a set.
FAQ 8: Is the Pickle Diner a real place?
The “Pickle Diner,” a frequent hangout for Oliver Putnam, is not a real diner. It’s a set designed specifically for the show. While inspired by classic New York diners, it’s a fictional creation that contributes to the show’s unique atmosphere.
FAQ 9: Where did they film the scenes with Sting in his apartment?
While the show implies Sting lives within The Belnord, the scenes featuring his apartment were also likely filmed on a set. It’s highly unlikely that Sting, a real-life celebrity, would allow his actual apartment to be used for filming. The set was designed to reflect his character’s wealth and sophistication.
FAQ 10: What other iconic New York locations are featured in the show?
Besides The Belnord and the implied Diamond District, the show subtly incorporates other iconic New York locations, such as Central Park, various Upper West Side streets, and glimpses of the Manhattan skyline. These subtle nods to the city’s identity enhance the show’s authenticity and appeal.
FAQ 11: How much does it cost to live in The Belnord?
Residences in The Belnord are incredibly expensive. Prices for apartments can range from several million dollars to upwards of tens of millions of dollars, depending on the size, layout, and features. The building is known for its luxury and exclusivity, reflecting its long history as a home to New York’s elite.
FAQ 12: Does the show have any plans to film in other locations outside of New York City?
As of now, Only Murders in the Building remains firmly rooted in its New York City setting. While future seasons may explore different parts of the city or even venture outside of Manhattan, the core narrative and visual identity are deeply intertwined with the unique character of New York City. The likelihood of relocating to another city is considered low, as the show’s success hinges significantly on its authentic portrayal of the city and its inhabitants.