Fictional Interiors – Friends

We all remember the unsightly view of ‘Ugly Naked Guy’, Joey’s famous chat up line and the one where Ross and Rachel ‘Took a break’ but we also fell in love with the characters apartments and Central Perk cafe in which the majority of the scenes were filmed. While these famous rooms were sets that allowed the show to be performed in front of a live audience we can all achieve the look of these instantly recognisable interiors in our own homes.

Monica and Rachel’s Apartment

This apartment was the hub of most of the events in the group and its shabby chic style design was clearly ahead of its time, seeing as this look was voted one of the most favoured interior design of 2015. The flea market chic accessories and furniture gave the apartment a laid back and relaxed feel with a pop of colour that reflected the sunshiny personality of the owner (Monica).

To get this look, pop some funky bursts of colour on your walls such as chalky blue or purple and paint the remaining walls in soft white or cream. Display a mix and match of furniture to achieve this kitsch look, partner a rustic oak coffee table with a lacquered retro sideboard and a white painted dining set with a mix and match of styles and colours across your dining chairs. Choose traditional floral curtains for your windows and pair with a cream fabric sofa and comfy armchair and a huge oversized rug with floral patterns that will complete this fun and girly look. oh and don’t forget the all important yellow, peep hole frame for your front door!

Joey and Chandlers Apartment

If you prefer a more masculine interior design then why not take inspiration from Joey and Chandler’s apartment that was located right across the hall from the girls. A sanctuary from all the madness, this apartment was a haven of all things manly. From the games consoles and (extremely) oversized TV unit to the all important ‘man chairs’; this apartment was plain and simple, usually a mess and relied on functionality more than design.

To achieve this look paint your walls in neutral cream and sage green and lay parquet style flooring for visual detail. Choose two lazy boys or barcaloungers and place directly in front of a large modular TV unit with in-built cupboards, drawers and shelves for storage. Place a yellow retro sofa at the edge of the room (for any guests) and hang traditional cream and brown chequered curtains from the windows. If you can live without a dining table then why not replace it with a fun foosball table and eat your dinner over the sink (just like the boys!)

Central Perk

The social meeting place of the ’friends’ gang; Central Perk is the famous coffee house where you can enjoy your favourite beverage in a cosy and homely environment. The cafe played a huge role in the TV show from being Rachel’s workplace for many seasons to allowing Phoebe to showcase her fabulous singing talents (who can forget Smelly Cat!). To recreate its homely charm in your own home then the main focus of your room should be a large scrolled arm, chesterfield sofa and then mix and match with vintage and modern armchairs, bistro chairs and stools in a variety of patterns and fabrics.

Display some neon signs on your walls such as coffee cups and arrows and team with natural indoor plants and neon pop art style wall prints arranged in a gallery style. Place a large Persian rug in the centre of the room and don’t forget to accessorize with some all important coffee mugs (with some cheeky ‘friends’ style slogans).

For more ideas on creating a ‘Friends’ inspired home interior, take a look at our latest Pinterest board – Fictional Interiors – Friends