Their situations might not be enviable, but their homes are a different story
The Overlook Hotel could have used some updates, and Leatherface wasn’t much of a decorator, but the horror genre has still brought us some wickedly stunning spaces. Here are our top picks for scary movie houses and spooky series homes that deliver thrills, chills, and a touch of house envy.
Surely there’s nothing suspicious about a massive Dutch-Colonial home with a shockingly low asking price for the area. The 2005 remake of “The Amityville Horror” shows the classic scary movie house with vintage wallpaper, detailed woodwork, and plenty of country-style charm. It even has a boathouse to boot.
The Hill House in “The Haunting of Hill House” is a bit of a fixer-upper, but its dark exterior and Gothic bones fit the spooky vibe. Inside has exquisite touches such as rich wood, sparkling chandeliers, elegant damask wallpaper, and ornately-carved furniture. This scary movie house also sits on a good-sized piece of land, so there are plenty of opportunities to build a gorgeous outdoor space. Just ignore the paranormal activity.
There’s never been a scary movie house quite like Uncle Cyrus’ glass mansion in “13 Ghosts,” even more than 20 years after the film’s release. The shifting glass walls controlled by a giant clock are an acquired taste, but its grand size and luxe modern decor more than make up for it. Sure, there’s the minor issue of violent ghosts locked in the basement, but you can’t deny the luxuriousness of the space.
If you love antiques, the huge farm home from “Things Heard and Seen” is a feast for the eyes. The cozy country-style interior features stunning vintage wallpaper accents that add tons of warmth and visual interest to each room. Sure, it’s probably haunted, but the right decorative touches make this vintage home shine.
The first season of “American Horror Story” brings us to the Murder House, a huge Victorian home in California. Inside has a freshly-updated interior filled with modern fixtures, Tiffany lamps, and hardwood floors. It might be haunted and have weirdly invasive neighbors, but the stained glass windows and wrought iron fences are undeniably charming. It even has a gazebo to decorate (but don’t ask what’s under it).
“What We Do in the Shadows” delivers more chuckles than chills, but their gothic vampire mansion is worthy of a mention. A brilliant stained glass window and swirling vines adorn the home’s exterior, framing the archway of a quaint covered porch. Rich woodwork and deep burgundies dominate the interior space, which is illuminated by chandeliers and romantic candle scapes. It could use a good dusting, but other than that, it’s to die for (or become undead for, as the case may be).
From its enviable wraparound porch to its lush gardens, the lakeside Vermont home in What Lies Beneath is a portrait of curb appeal. Stone steps lead to a relaxing porch with a pergola enveloped in vines. Winding paths lead to brilliant florals and a thriving lawn with a view overlooking the water. It’s the perfect place to unwind—just don’t try to befriend the neighbors.
Aside from the buildup of dust and cobwebs, Whipstaff manor in Casper is one stunning piece of architecture. Its swirled floor tiles, dramatic spiral staircase, and gorgeous Gothic furniture might make you look past the pesky hauntings. You’ll even get a new ghost pal to sweeten the deal.
“The Watcher”’s home features showstopping stone steps and a matching stone facade that oozes English countryside charm. A large covered porch leads to a bright interior filled with crisp white upholstery, modern finishes, and a stunning tile backsplash in the kitchen. If the ominous letters and phone calls bother you, take a plunge in the luxurious backyard swimming pool—who cares who’s watching?
The opening scene of “Drag Me to Hell” showcases a stunning Pasadena mansion surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery. The enormous home has balconies galore, stained glass windows, and ornate ironwork, plus a massive turret topped with a 360-degree lookout deck. It’s a shame that the floor had to open up to fire and brimstone.
