Bridgerton architecture represents the magnificence and beauty of Regency era architecture through the years 1813 – 1827, with its tall windows, exposed brickwork, and sophisticated and elegant interiors. This was known as a period of change owing to the development of fashion, art, and architecture. The story revolves around Viscountess Violet Bridgerton and her family of eight children. This production by Shonda Rhimes is based on the historical and romance books written by Julia Quinn, which explore themes of romance, society, family dynamics, and scandal. The splendid architecture and set design beautifully capture the luxury and elegance of Regency and Georgian architecture in Bridgerton through meticulously crafted designs.

Filming Sites

The Bridgerton filming locations are scattered across the United Kingdom and add to the show’s romantic mystique. From the countryside mansions and courtyards to iconic museums and churches, the fantasy world is brought to life. Bridgerton set design was a team effort of production designer – Will Hughes-Jones and set decorators, Gina Cromwell and Alison Gartshore. They meticulously recreated details within the interiors to give life to the era with ornate plasterwork, creating elegant fireplaces, and windows adorned with luxurious drapes. These details created a sense of immersion and transported viewers to the Regency aristocracy.

The Grandeur of the Bridgertons

Located in London and owned by English Heritage, the Ranger’s House was used for the exterior shots of the Bridgerton household. The exposed red-brick exterior facade is adorned with ivy and amethyst wisteria, having a pillared entrance with a green door, welcomed by a vast collection of Renaissance art, medieval sculptures, and jewelry pieces that were the property of Sir Julius Wernher.

The interior scenes of the Bridgerton house were filmed at RAF (Royal Air Force) Halton.  The Georgian architecture in this mansion is featured by its symmetry and proportion brought out by the double-height rounded arches. It is also seen through the elegant and sophisticated colour palette of soft pinks and blues with cream. The intricate wall panels and oversized chandelier represent the elaborate features and majesty in the interiors that reflect the societal status and wealth of the Bridgertons.

Bridgerton’s countryside home, Aubery Hall, is none other than the 2500-acre mansion, Wrotham Park. Surrounded by 300 acres of parkland, this Palladian Mansion in Hertfordshire is where season two’s game of pall-mall is played on these grounds. 

A unique example of the 18th-century French Chateau-inspired style in English Architecture, Wrest Park is located in Bedfordshire. This historical landmark was constructed in the mid-1800s, the highlight of which – is an awe-inspiring aesthetically crafted landscape of 90 acres of lush green gardens that complement its traditional style. The filming of the significant bee-sting scene of Viscount Bridgerton and the orangery scene between Prudence and Lord Featherington was set here. 

Over-the-top Featheringtons

The exterior of the Featherington household was captured by a row of terrace houses composing the Royal Crescent found in Bath, England, featuring 18th-century Georgian homes along a stretch of 500ft. The set location was changed to the heritage property of Hertfordshire – the Hatfield House, when it came to the household interiors.

The Brigerton residence revolves around a muted colour palette of pastels and neutrals, like pale blue, flat cream, and subdued gold which are appropriate representations of the family’s genteel and respectable status. This aesthetic palette was much in contrast to Featherington’s home decor, which, much like their outfits, is as extravagant as their surname, with shades of green and maximalism in the interiors representing an exuberant dwelling.

Sophisticated Lady Danbury 

As for the Holborne Museum, the residence of Lady Danbury was the city’s first public art gallery. The neoclassical, cream exterior mansion houses an eclectic art collection by a rich 19th-century naval officer. Lady Danbury’s aesthetic is dusty pink, with rich bronze and gold embellishments, while the Cowper residence filmed at the Pitzhanger Manor follows a rather dark aesthetic, much in contrast to Cressida’s outfits.?

These historical buildings in Bridgerton represent high society fashions and traditions with their lavish backdrops throughout the UK’s stunning homes. By combining set design with real locations, Bridgerton creates a believable and visually stunning world that reflects the architectural spirit of the architectural era that prevailed.

Gardens & Lush Greens 

As for landscape architecture, regarded as a fine example of the English Landscape Movement, Painshill Park, Cobham is one of the hallmarks with manicured grounds where the cast is seen to promenade and gossip.  

Initially, a private hunting ground for Windsor Castle, Windsor Great Park, located in Berkshire, England, with its 4800-acre public green space envelopes a royal landscape of forests, grasslands, lakes, and gardens. It is where the much-awaited Kanthony love affair begins amidst the greenery and mysterious atmosphere.  

The gardens revolve around Regancy-style outdoor spaces featuring extravagant water features, and breathtaking flower displays of wisteria, roses, clematis, topiary, statement pergola, and follies. The enchanting scenery adds to its romantic atmosphere, acting like the perfect setting for high society promenades and garden parties. 

Three-way Showdown 

The balls hosted by members of the Ton in Bridgerton are uniquely designed and extravagant in style, serving as a display of a family’s societal class and value. It also lays the ground for romance and potential match-making. The aesthetic of each ball is often tied to the image of its host. 

A ball hosted by Lady Danbury is nothing but elegant and powerful with its rich jewel tones of ruby red and emerald green, accompanied by gold silks and satins, and vibrant backdrops, overall aiming to reflect her dignity and high status in the ton. 

Bridgerton’s balls are balanced with sophistication and warmth through their signature silvers and blues. The guests are at ease with the elegance reflected in their ball while they keep their high-standing Bridgerton name up above. 

The last ball of season 03 thrown by Philipa and Prudence Featherington is quite different from the balls hosted by the Bridgertons and Lady Danbury. The overall tone is rather bold and whimsical, with the ostrich feather, orange columns, and, in Philipa’s words – ‘bugs’.  Despite its playful decorations and purple-green colour palette, it turns out to be an eye-catching atmosphere.

The Bridgerton series is not only a compelling narrative with its sophisticated and vibrant characters, but the story is also lifted by the architecturally intricate set designs and backdrop locations, blending history and art. The series seamlessly weaves together storytelling, romance, and social intricacies. Real-life locations blending with the set design, reflect the architectural splendor of the era, highlighting Georgian and Regency architecture amidst the lush gardens, societal events, and scandal.

Sources

• https://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/a35145589/netflix-bridgerton-featherington-houses-filming-locations/
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• https://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/travel-guide/g39313259/bridgerton-filming-locations-how-to-visit/
• https://www.houseandgarden.co.uk/gallery/bridgerton-locations#:~:text=Painshill%20Park%2C%20Cobham,characters%20promenade%20out%20in%20society.
• https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/bridgerton-season-two-regency-style-sets
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• https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places