Architectural Cases

Bringing a historical narrative to the screen demands a profound understanding of its era, and this was especially true for "The Testament of Ann Lee," a film that transports audiences to 18th-century colonial America. The production designer, Sam Bader, embarked on an extensive research journey, meticulously studying historical texts and imagery, including the New York Public Library's vast collection. His goal was to authentically re-create the diverse environments, from the gritty urban landscapes of Manchester, England, influenced by artists like William Hogarth, to the serene, purposeful Shaker communities of the New World. This dedication ensured that every detail, from the cramped living conditions of Manchester's working class to the unornamented elegance of Shaker furniture, contributed to a deeply immersive and convincing cinematic experience.

The logistical challenges of filming a period piece across continents were significant, yet the team creatively leveraged resources to achieve historical fidelity. Much of "The Testament of Ann Lee," like its predecessor "The Brutalist," was brought to life in Budapest, Hungary, within a tight 34-day schedule. Studio backlots were transformed into the bustling streets of Manchester, while an early-19th-century fort served dual purposes as an infirmary and prison. For the pivotal journey to America, a functioning replica of an 18th-century ship, the Götheborg, was utilized in Sweden, complemented by purpose-built sets for below-deck scenes. A small but crucial amount of footage was also captured at the genuine Hancock Shaker Village in Massachusetts, highlighting the production's commitment to seamlessly blending real historical sites with meticulously constructed sets.

The visual progression of the film mirrors Ann Lee's spiritual and physical journey, shifting from the muted tones of Manchester to the vibrant, hopeful palette of the Shaker settlements in America. Here, the Shakers' philosophy of crafting with intention, where every piece of furniture and every building is an act of devotion, is vividly portrayed. Bader's team painstakingly constructed Shaker furniture and buildings from scratch in Budapest, using rare book scans for authentic designs. The film prominently features functional design elements like peg rails and a "tree of life" mural within the congregation hall, built within an old barn chosen for its correct proportions and period architecture. This meticulous attention to design ensured that the on-screen world was not just a backdrop, but a character in itself, embodying the Shaker ideals of perfection, utility, and spiritual harmony.

Through a blend of rigorous research, innovative set design, and a deep respect for historical authenticity, "The Testament of Ann Lee" invites viewers to not only witness a compelling narrative but also to experience the transformative power of belief and community. It stands as a testament to the idea that true artistry lies in the details, and that a faithfully re-created past can illuminate enduring human values.

Quince, a San Francisco-based direct-to-consumer brand, has garnered significant attention for its ability to deliver high-quality goods at accessible prices. By bypassing traditional intermediaries, the company offers luxurious items such as Mongolian cashmere and fine silk without the usual hefty price tags. Beyond its well-known fashion apparel, Quince's home collection stands out for its excellence and commitment to sustainability, utilizing organic cotton and upholding ethical production standards. This comprehensive review highlights editor-tested home essentials, covering everything from comfortable bedding to stylish loungewear and festive decor, affirming the brand's reputation for genuine value.

Among Quince's standout home offerings are its diverse sheet sets, which include options like soft bamboo and classic organic percale. Senior commerce editor Nashia Baker praises the bamboo sheets for their breathability and luxurious feel, comparing their smooth, cool-to-the-touch texture to silk while appreciating their durability and ease of care. She notes that despite occasional residue from hair products on pillowcases, the sheets themselves maintain their quality, with no fading or pilling even after extended use. Guests often mistake these bamboo sheets for silk, further underscoring their premium feel without the associated maintenance concerns.

For those who prefer a crisp yet soft feel, Quince's organic percale sheets are a favored choice. AD PRO senior editor Mel Studach highlights their softer-than-average texture and ability to retain a neat, wrinkle-free appearance, making daily bed-making a breeze. These 100% cotton sheets offer excellent breathability and a smooth texture, ensuring a comfortable night's sleep. The collection also features European linen sheets, loved by both Baker and contributor Erika Owen for their impressive range of earth tones and prints that effortlessly complement various bedroom aesthetics, from Mediterranean to minimalist. Priced affordably, these linen sheets offer a relaxed, lived-in look and remarkable comfort.

Quince also provides an array of bed covers suitable for any season, including duvet covers, quilts, and coverlets. Contributors attest to the high-end feel of the European linen duvet covers, with Elise Portale noting their "soft and comfy" texture and long-lasting quality. Julia Harrison initially found her linen duvet cover slightly coarse, but observed a significant softening after several washes, appreciating its wrinkle resistance and ability to provide warmth without causing overheating. The brand's Organic Airy Gauze Box Quilt Set is a favorite for its cozy yet sophisticated look, featuring a soft cotton outer layer and a warm terracotta hue that enhances any bedroom. This quilt has proven its durability over nearly two years of use, resisting fading and pilling, making it a reliable choice for cooler months.

The brand's bed accessories, including pillows and comforters, also receive high marks. Katherine McLaughlin, digital features editor, recommends Quince's Luxe Goose Down Pillow for its soft fill and customizable density, making it ideal for side sleepers. Associate commerce director Lori Keong prefers the Premium Down Alternative Pillow for its firm yet squishy support, preventing neck strain while remaining breathable thanks to its shredded polyester fill and cotton sateen shell. The Premium Down Comforter, praised by contributor Zoë Sessums for its exceptional warmth and value, holds up well even after four years, requiring only spot cleaning and air drying to maintain its loft.

Beyond the bedroom, Quince extends its commitment to affordable luxury to bath essentials and loungewear. The Turkish Cotton Bath Mat Bundle, featuring highly absorbent Turkish cotton, proves useful for larger bathrooms and maintains its quality through washes, though it lacks a non-slip backing. The Turkish Classic Bath Towel Bundle is celebrated by Nashia Baker for its lightweight, plush, and absorbent material, softening with each wash and retaining its hotel-quality feel. For relaxation, Quince offers loungewear made from premium materials like Tencel, silk satin, and linen. Audrey Lee highlights the Mongolian Cashmere Fisherman Quarter Zip Sweater as a gift-worthy item that looks much more expensive than its price, offering comfort and a polished appearance suitable for both lounging and casual outings. The Mulberry Silk Beauty Sleep Mask, an accessory for enhancing sleep quality, is praised for its gentle feel and light-blocking capabilities, making it a luxurious yet affordable treat.

Concluding the range of home products, Quince's festive decor, such as the Spruce Pre-Lit Artificial Christmas Tree, combines aesthetic appeal with practical design. Its unique branch construction features bushier inner branches for fullness and realistic outer tips, creating a lifelike appearance. Kate McGregor, commerce market editor, notes the tree's lush look when adorned with ornaments, though some minor residue from the realistic branches is a small trade-off for its impressive design. From comfortable bedding to elegant loungewear and seasonal accents, Quince consistently delivers products that combine quality, style, and affordability.