Taking cues from the novel by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus, Baseman and Ricker based their designs on the lifestyle and personality of the characters as they created an upper echelon, “old money” look—all within the parameters of a limited budget and a grueling eight-week schedule. The apartment had to feel traditional, comfortable, and inviting, but also look striking and modern, reflecting Mrs. X’s taste as a former manager of the Gagosian Art Gallery. As with all successful film design (known in the industry as production design and set decoration), the goal was to create an absolutely believable backdrop, yet—in this case—“have the audience chuckle at the decadence,” says Ricker.

While the Upper East Side has no shortage of luxury high-rise and prewar domiciles, logistical and budgetary concerns kept the film crew from shooting in an actual apartment. “Not only are ceiling heights low for lighting and elevators difficult to navigate,” Ricker explains, “but also neighbors need to be dealt with, noise is a problem, and external lighting is difficult.” So the design team turned to a tried-and-true solution—a Hollywood-style film set on a soundstage at the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Symmetry was key to the design scheme of the interior entry hall, above, as shown in the pairings of chairs, lamps, and consoles.

“The pleasures and challenges in designing The Nanny Diaries were tied hand-in-hand with the fact that it was based on an enormously popular book. Because there are extensive descriptions, readers have expectations of what the place will look like in the film,” Ricker says. He recalls the memorable scene where Nanny Annie is given a room-by-room tour of the Xs’ apartment. “The set would be seen on film not just as a background for the action, but as a featured element that emphasizes the indulgent lifestyle and misery of these characters and the humor that results,” he notes.

The latest in culinary accoutrements—upscale appliances, fancy cookware, expensive cabinetry—adorn the kitchen of Mrs. X, who seldom cooks.

Silk embroidered fabrics, a French bed, and floral wallpaper in the guest room offer a soothing place of respite in this otherwise chaotic household.