Modern Family is a beloved sitcom that has captured the hearts of audiences around the world with its humorous and heartfelt portrayal of a diverse family. One of the elements that make the show so engaging is its setting, which plays a crucial role in bringing the characters and their stories to life. In this article, we will explore the various locations where Modern Family is set, delving into the real-life places that serve as the backdrop for the Pritchett-Dunphy-Tucker clan’s adventures.
1.The Pritchett Family Home
The Pritchett family home is one of the central locations in Modern Family. Jay Pritchett, the patriarch of the family, lives in a beautiful, contemporary house with his much younger wife, Gloria, and their son, Joe. This home is a symbol of Jay’s success and serves as a gathering place for the extended family.
The actual house used for exterior shots of Jay’s home is located in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. The house, with its modern design and luxurious amenities, perfectly captures Jay’s affluent lifestyle. While the interiors were created on a soundstage, the exterior shots provide viewers with a glimpse of the upscale Brentwood area, known for its elegant homes and scenic surroundings.
2.The Dunphy Family Home
The Dunphy family home, where Phil and Claire Dunphy live with their three children, is another iconic location in the series. The house reflects the suburban, middle-class lifestyle of the Dunphy family, complete with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
The real-life house used for exterior shots of the Dunphy home is located in the Cheviot Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles. Cheviot Hills is a charming residential area known for its tree-lined streets and family-friendly environment. The Dunphy house, with its traditional architecture and well-kept lawn, fits perfectly into this picturesque neighborhood.
3.The Tucker-Pritchett Family Home
Cameron Tucker and Mitchell Pritchett, along with their adopted daughter Lily, live in a stylish, urban home that reflects their unique personalities and tastes. Their house is a blend of modern and eclectic elements, showcasing their creativity and love for design.
The exterior shots of the Tucker-Pritchett home were filmed in the Hancock Park neighborhood of Los Angeles. Hancock Park is known for its historic homes and elegant architecture, making it an ideal location for the sophisticated and vibrant Tucker-Pritchett family. The house’s distinctive look, with its colorful and artistic touches, adds to the charm of this affluent neighborhood.
4.Pritchett’s Closets & Blinds
Jay Pritchett’s business, Pritchett’s Closets & Blinds, is a key element of his character’s storyline. The business represents Jay’s entrepreneurial spirit and his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful businessman.
The actual building used for the exterior shots of Pritchett’s Closets & Blinds is located in the Culver City area of Los Angeles. Culver City is a hub for the entertainment industry, with numerous studios and production companies based there. The choice of this location reflects Jay’s connection to the business world and his role as a self-made man.
6.The Dunphy Kids’ School
The school attended by the Dunphy children—Haley, Alex, and Luke—features prominently in many episodes, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of their academic and social lives. The school’s setting plays a significant role in the development of the characters, especially as they navigate the ups and downs of growing up.
The exterior shots of the school were filmed at the Palisades Charter High School in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles. Pacific Palisades is a coastal neighborhood known for its scenic beauty and affluent residents. The high school’s picturesque location, with its views of the ocean and surrounding hills, adds to the visual appeal of the show.
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7.Gloria’s Colombian Background
Gloria Delgado-Pritchett, Jay’s wife, brings a vibrant cultural element to the series with her Colombian heritage. Throughout the show, Gloria often reminisces about her homeland, sharing stories and traditions with her family.
While the show is primarily set in Los Angeles, there are several references to Gloria’s Colombian background that add depth to her character. These references include her accent, traditional dishes, and the occasional Spanish phrases she uses. Although the show does not feature scenes shot in Colombia, the writers and creators have done an excellent job of incorporating Gloria’s cultural identity into the storyline.
8.Various Los Angeles Locations
In addition to the main family homes and key locations, Modern Family often features various spots around Los Angeles, showcasing the city’s diverse and vibrant landscape. From beaches and parks to restaurants and shops, the show provides viewers with a glimpse of everyday life in Los Angeles.
One notable location is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), where several scenes were filmed. LACMA’s iconic urban light installation, with its rows of vintage street lamps, serves as a memorable backdrop for some of the show’s moments. Other locations include Griffith Park, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Santa Monica Pier, all of which contribute to the show’s authentic Los Angeles setting.
The Significance of the Setting
The setting of Modern Family is more than just a backdrop; it plays a crucial role in shaping the characters and their stories. The diverse locations reflect the varied lifestyles and backgrounds of the family members, highlighting their individual quirks and personalities.
The suburban charm of the Dunphy home, the modern elegance of the Pritchett house, and the eclectic style of the Tucker-Pritchett residence all contribute to the show’s visual appeal. Each location is carefully chosen to reflect the characters’ identities and enhance the storytelling.
Behind the Scenes
While the show is set in various locations around Los Angeles, much of the filming takes place on soundstages at 20th Century Fox Studios in Century City, Los Angeles. The use of soundstages allows for greater control over the filming environment, ensuring that the creators can maintain the show’s high production values.
The show’s production team goes to great lengths to create authentic and believable settings. From meticulously designed sets to carefully selected exterior locations, every detail is considered to ensure that the audience is fully immersed in the world of Modern Family.
Fan Pilgrimages
The popularity of Modern Family has inspired many fans to visit the real-life locations featured in the show. Brentwood, Cheviot Hills, and Hancock Park have become popular destinations for fans eager to see the iconic homes of their favorite characters.
Tours of Los Angeles often include stops at these locations, allowing fans to take photos and experience the settings that have become so familiar to them. The show’s impact on popular culture is evident in the way it has turned these ordinary neighborhoods into tourist attractions.
The Enduring Legacy of Modern Family’s Setting
As Modern Family concludes its impressive run, the setting of the show remains an integral part of its legacy. The diverse locations not only provide a beautiful backdrop for the characters’ stories but also serve as a reflection of the show’s inclusive and multifaceted portrayal of family life.
The setting of Modern Family will be remembered as much as the characters themselves, with each location contributing to the rich tapestry of the series. From the sunny streets of Los Angeles to the cozy interiors of the family homes, the show’s setting has played a vital role in making Modern Family a beloved and enduring classic.
Conclusion
Modern Family’s setting is a vital component of the show’s success, providing a rich and varied backdrop for the adventures of the Pritchett-Dunphy-Tucker clan. The carefully chosen locations, from the family homes to iconic Los Angeles landmarks, enhance the storytelling and bring the characters’ world to life.
As fans continue to celebrate the show’s legacy, the setting of Modern Family will remain a cherished part of its charm, reminding us of the humor, love, and unforgettable moments that have made it a modern classic.
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