Apple TV's psychological thriller "Servant" has not only spellbound audiences with its intricate plot and captivating characters but also with its eerie setting — a haunting house with an old-world charm. Much like the vintage architecture that dots the cityscape of Toronto, the 'Servant' house unveils a world where the past eerily coexists with the present.

The Turner Residence: A Character in Its Own Right

The house in "Servant," set in a stately Philadelphia brownstone, echoes the vintage essence found in some of Toronto's historical neighborhoods. Its dark, claustrophobic atmosphere, filled with Gothic and Victorian influences, creating a sense of unease that permeates the entire show. Its narrow hallways, dim lighting, and labyrinthine layout contribute to the disorienting, unsettling experience for both the characters and the audience and in many ways is reminiscent of houses that stand as silent witnesses to Toronto's rich, bygone era.

Filming Location: A Real Philadelphia Brownstone

Brownstones, an iconic architectural style in Philadelphia, emerged in the mid-19th century as an adaptation of the popular row houses found in New York and Boston. These elegant homes, named after the distinctive reddish-brown sandstone used for their facade, were built primarily for the city's growing middle and upper classes. The popularity of brownstones peaked during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and today, they continue to be a cherished part of Philadelphia's architectural heritage, representing the city's rich history and commitment to preserving its unique character.

"Servant" is filmed in a real Philadelphia brownstone, adding authenticity to the show's setting. The exterior shots showcase the house's grand, imposing facade, while the interior scenes highlight the intricate architectural details, such as the original crown molding, hardwood floors, and ornate fireplaces. The production team also made use of the house's natural lighting, further enhancing the gloomy atmosphere.

Brownstones, though famous in Philadelphia, find a sibling spirit in the vintage townhouses of Toronto’s Cabbagetown or Annex neighbourhoods.. These architectural marvels, with their distinctive character, narrate stories of eras past, much like the brownstones in "Servant." The authenticity of such homes, with their ornate fireplaces and hardwood floors, can be a real treasure for the Toronto real estate market, revealing a slice of history with every creak of the floorboard.

Atmosphere-Building Set Design

The set design team for "Servant" expertly crafted the show's interior to enhance the eerie ambiance. The house is filled with antique furniture, heavy drapery, and vintage artwork, evoking a sense of history and decay. The use of muted colours and strategically placed mirrors adds to the house's ghostly, disquieting appearance, making it the perfect backdrop for the series' chilling events.

Halloween Inspiration: Recreate the "Servant" Atmosphere at Home

If you're looking to infuse your home with the haunting atmosphere of the "Servant" house for Halloween this year, consider incorporating some of the show's design elements:

Use dim, flickering lighting to create a sense of unease.
Decorate with antique furniture, heavy drapery, and vintage artwork to evoke a sense of history.
Utilize mirrors to create an unsettling, disorienting effect.
Choose muted colours for your decor, such as deep reds, dark blues, and forest greens.

For a little inspiration, why not check out some of Toronto’s vintage home decor shops for antique furniture or other pieces to recreate that eerie elegance of the 'Servant' house. Some great places to start are Blackbird Vintage, Guff or Williams Design but if you know where to look, you’ll find hidden gems all over Toronto.

our Musings

The house from Apple TV's "Servant" plays a crucial role in the show's eerie atmosphere and provides a chilling setting for the series' unnerving events. The combination of its authentic Philadelphia brownstone location, meticulous set design, and Halloween-worthy ambiance makes it a fascinating subject for fans of the show and lovers of all things spooky. If you’re planning on hosting this Halloween season, embrace the spirit of the Turner residence and transform your Toronto home into a haunting, unforgettable experience for your guests.