Forget Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's Prada Coat, Glass Bricks Are The Real Star of 'Love Story' – And Designers Say The Retro Detail Will Be Everywhere in 2026
The Kennedy Tribeca loft from FX's 'Love Story' is providing major '90s design inspiration and sparking the return of an unexpected material
Ryan Murphy's Love Story has the internet revisiting Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's timelessly elegant style. From her Levi's jeans to her Yohji Yamamoto button-up to the camel Prada jacket that just sold at auction for $192,000, the famed outfits have been just as lauded as Sarah Pidgeon and Paul Anthony Kelly's performances in the fictionalized retelling of Carolyn and JFK Jr.'s love story. Though the fashion is undeniably gorgeous, we're even more captivated by the recreation of JFK Jr.'s Tribeca loft featured in the show.
As expected, the set is a masterclass in '90s minimalism. Centering on a light and airy kitchen, one of the most striking details is the wall of glass bricks, made up of dozens of slightly textured glass squares. It's the perfect complement to the white walls and stainless steel kitchen, creating a cool, modern feel. Once considered an unsightly hangover from the '80s, Love Story's use of the detail is a definitive signal that their reputation is changing: glass bricks are back.
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The kitchen from JFK Jr.'s Tribeca loft in FX's 'Love Story' featuring a glass brick wall
Shop The '90s Minimalist Kitchen Look
If you hope to create a '90s minimalist kitchen, a glass brick feature wall is a wonderful place to start. I love that these ones are so affordable and stylish.
An organic candlestick is one of the best accessories for adding dimension to the look. These stylishly shaped ones from Anthropologie are made of marble for a pretty textural addition.
With its smooth finish and fluted silhouette, this black footed bowl is a timeless decorative piece that brings a sense of drama and refined decadence to the dining table. Fill with citrus fruit for a bold effect.
No need to give your kitchen an overhaul; this black marble rectangular tray is perfect for elevating your countertops. Fill it with a pot and utensils for a stylish yet practical arrangement.
The Tribeca loft features a cool silver mirror, the perfect accent for increasing light and style in a minimalist kitchen. It's the ideal piece to pair with a desk.
Style is all in the details, and this matte black soap dispenser is just that: a stylish detail. Place it beside your sink for a subtle upgrade.
First, what is the origin of the interior design trend from Love Story's interiors? Irene Tarroza, design expert at Archic Furniture, explains: 'Glass bricks, once a popular design trend in the mid-20th century, are currently experiencing a resurgence of interest among architects and interior designers. This resurgence can be attributed to a growing appreciation for retro and vintage aesthetics, as well as an increased focus on sustainable and eco-friendly building materials. As the design world continues to evolve, glass blocks may once again find their place as a unique and stylish choice in modern architecture and interior design.'
Megan Slack, Head of Celebrity Style at Homes & Gardens, adds: 'Celebrity interiors tend to be a good bellwether of where design is heading next, and glass bricks have been emerging for some time now. We've noticed them in Victoria Beckham's home and beyond, indicating that they will soon reach a wider audience.'
This shift also fits in with a larger turn towards the nostalgia-core turn affecting our interiors. As people feel dis-enchanted with the future, they turn to older ideas and influences to create stylishly retro spaces, embodied by the obsession with the aesthetics of Love Story. Irene states: 'The resurgence of glass brick as a design trend is an exciting development. It demonstrates the enduring appeal of certain design elements from the past and their ability to find relevance in contemporary contexts. As architects and designers continue to explore innovative ways to incorporate glass bricks into modern spaces, we may see them used in creative and unexpected ways. Whether as a nostalgic nod to mid-century design or as a sustainable and visually appealing choice, the return of glass brick has the potential to inject new energy into the world of interior design and architecture. It will be interesting to watch how this trend evolves and adapts to the ever-evolving tastes and needs of today's design-conscious consumers.'
Furthermore, glass bricks are popular because they are such a great way to make a house brighter. Irene explains: 'Glass bricks offer several advantages. Firstly, they allow natural light to enter the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere that can make a bathroom feel more spacious and inviting. In addition, their transparency can provide a sense of openness while maintaining privacy. Overall, glass blocks can enhance the aesthetics, functionality, and ambiance of a kitchen.'
Looking forward, '90s trends aren't going anywhere. As with any trend, the best advice is to take the parts you like, and leave the rest.
Love Story episode 9 will be released on Thursday, March 26th at 6 PM PT on FX and Hulu.
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