15 Films for Architects and Interior Designers

We have compiled a list of films from different genres that will be interesting to both professionals and enthusiasts — everyone who is interested in architecture and interior design. Get inspired!

Outstanding personalities: biographies

It is always fascinating to learn what happens in the minds of geniuses, how they create their masterpieces, and what drives them. Who are these masters of architecture and design?

"Sketches of Frank Gehry", Sidney Pollak

A biopic about the life and work of the famous American architect Frank Gehry. Thanks to a long-standing friendship with the master director, he was able to get close to the essence of Gehry's creativity and reveal not only professional but also personal secrets of the genius who touched such architectural masterpieces as the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. It turned out to be sincere.

"Milton Glazer: Inform and Inspire", Wendy Kiz

American designer Milton Glazer, a recipient of the National Medal of Arts of the United States, is an interesting and creative personality. In the film, he speaks in detail about his projects, their realization, and his views on life. "I want to make art at every level," he says, and we understand that he succeeds in this.

"How Much Does Your Building Weigh, Mr. Foster?", Carlos Carkas and Norberto Lopez Amado

Norman Foster designed buildings such as the Reichstag, City Hall, the "Cucumber" building in London, and the international airport in Hong Kong. The film meticulously explores the creative journey of the architect — by the way, a corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Sciences — and tells about ultra-modern methods of building design and construction.

"Antonio Gaudí", Hiroshi Teshigahara

Not so much a biography as a film of admiration for the works of Antonio Gaudí. The film is mainly set in Barcelona. It was created on the principle: "less words, more action" — and will appeal to those who prefer to observe rather than listen.

Only facts: documentaries

Documentary films combine real events, historical facts, and significant incidents. They are useful to people of any profession or age.

"Genius Design", BBC

A series of BBC documentaries dedicated to designers working in various spheres of modern life. A lot of interesting facts about the emergence and development of design, significant industrial inventions, and the latest trends. All facts are presented clearly and scientifically, but at the same time accessibly.

"Urbanized", Gary Hustwit

A one-and-a-half-hour film about urban planning and architecture that explores the problems of modern urbanization. The director touches on a wide range of important issues and created not only a useful informative film but also a truly beautiful one that makes you think deeply about the future of human civilization.

"Bauhaus: Face of the Twentieth Century", Frank Whitford

A detailed and fascinating history of the emergence and development of the German artistic school that had a huge influence on art in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, particularly on design and architecture.

"Great Expectations", Jesper Wachtmeister

A now-famous documentary film about the fantastic, utopian architecture of the twentieth century. The main bulk of the film consists of interviews with such architectural geniuses as Le Corbusier, Peter Cook, Paolo Soleri, and Oscar Niemeyer.

Abstract: Design Art

This documentary series is completely new: the company Netflix released it in February 2017. The first and only season consists of eight forty-minute episodes, each dedicated to the creativity of a notable modern designer. Architecture is discussed by Dane Bjarki Ingels, who designed many buildings and districts in Copenhagen, while interior design is covered by the founder and former editor-in-chief of British Elle Decor, Izzy Crawford.

To Action: Practical Guides

These films will help you gain knowledge that you can apply directly in practice. Learning from others' experiences is always useful.

"Design Rules"

Another BBC project consisting of several films. Suitable for both beginning interior designers and professionals: a wealth of useful information and business tips on color, light, textures, and furniture. A true treasure trove of knowledge.

"The Stories of Design", Kevin McClaud

A unique multi-part project by designer Kevin McClaud, each part of which is dedicated to a particular residence: owners, architects, and builders reveal the entire underbelly of the house, from the moment the idea was born to its final realization stage.

Exemplary Interiors for Inspiration

These films were worked on by real professionals in their field, and their works are a huge source of inspiration: you can take ideas for specific details or even order similar furniture.

"The Great Gatsby", Baz Luhrmann

Lavish interiors of the roaring twenties, a memorable era in U.S. history, opulent and glamorous Art Deco style, impressive furniture, and accessories — this film has plenty to offer in terms of interior design.

"Midnight in Paris", Woody Allen

A very "tasty" film from the perspective of interiors. Since the heroes travel through different eras, the spaces around them constantly change. Night clubs of the 1920s, Gertrude Stein’s home — all interiors are recreated quite realistically.

"The Solitary Man", Tom Ford

This film will appeal to fans of 60s retro style. The textures and colors are truly mesmerizing, and in the end, it creates an impression that design here is just as important as the plot itself.

"The Royal Tenenbaums", Wes Anderson

Undoubtedly, every Wes Anderson film is a feast for the eyes, but here he surpassed himself. Grotesque accessories, vibrant colors, avant-garde furniture, and yet still adhering to most classical rules of interior design.

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