The new FX limited series, 'Love Story,' offers a glimpse into the intimate world of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, chronicling their magnetic romance against the backdrop of 1990s New York City. Production designer Alex DiGerlando and set decorator Lydia Marks meticulously recreated key settings, drawing inspiration from historical accounts and architectural styles of the era. Their work brought to life Calvin Klein's minimalist headquarters, JFK Jr.'s Tribeca loft, Jackie Kennedy's Fifth Avenue residence, and the iconic Kennedy compound, each space reflecting the distinctive aesthetic and personal narratives of this legendary couple.
A significant portion of the series focuses on the iconic Calvin Klein headquarters, where Bessette Kennedy began her career. DiGerlando explains that Klein was a pioneer of 90s minimalism, influencing not only fashion but also workspace design. The team meticulously replicated Klein's office, incorporating elements such as industrial metal shelves and a round marble table designed by Joe D'Urso, known for his high-tech minimalist philosophy. This setting served as a cornerstone for establishing the show's glamorized version of 90s New York, emphasizing a controlled color palette and minimizing visual clutter to reflect a pre-digital era where human interaction and tangible objects held greater significance.
JFK Jr.'s Tribeca loft also presented a unique design challenge. While exterior shots were filmed at the actual 20 North Moore Street building, the interiors were constructed on a soundstage. DiGerlando aimed to elevate the loft's perceived style, moving away from descriptions of it being "fratty" to a more chic aesthetic. The design incorporated concrete countertops, glass bricks, stainless steel, and chrome, reflecting the sleek, modern tastes of the time. The production team delved into real estate listings for apartments in the building, historical cookbooks from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis's chef, and even film stills to accurately capture architectural details, such as the subtly scalloped ceiling, while optimizing the layout for storytelling purposes.
Jackie Kennedy's Fifth Avenue apartment was another crucial location that required extensive research. The design team utilized a Sotheby's auction catalog, which documented many of the former First Lady's personal belongings, as a primary resource. While striving for accuracy in the layout, DiGerlando consciously "dialed down" the visual busyness of her actual decor, which was characterized by clashing patterns. The chosen pieces adhered to a specific color palette that complemented the narrative without overwhelming the actors, subtly highlighting the connection between Jackie and Carolyn through shared aesthetic tones.
The Kennedy compound in Hyannis Port, a symbol of the family's legacy, was brought to life at a waterfront property in Bellport, Long Island. This location provided both accessibility for the crew and the secluded atmosphere necessary for the storyline. The production team transformed the space by altering wallpaper and furniture to match the distinctive Kennedy aesthetic. Key additions included a flagpole, an entrance gate, and a white pebble driveway, culminating in a complete visual metamorphosis. Although not an exact architectural replica, the chosen setting exuded a stately and romantic quality that perfectly served the show's creative vision, with only the dining room scenes being filmed on a custom-built set due to logistical considerations.
The creative teams behind FX's 'Love Story' meticulously crafted the environments for John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, focusing on a refined 90s minimalist aesthetic. From Calvin Klein's sleek offices to JFK Jr.'s modern Tribeca loft and Jackie Kennedy's elegant Fifth Avenue apartment, every detail was carefully chosen. This commitment extended to the Kennedy compound, where a blend of historical accuracy and design intuition brought a timeless allure to the settings, allowing the series to transport viewers into the personal world of one of the twentieth century's most iconic couples.