From the Gothic grandeur of Allerdale Hall in "Crimson Peak" to the chilling Amityville Horror House, the homes featured in classic horror films have captivated audiences for decades. These cinematic dwellings, with their unique architectural details and haunting histories, have become as much a part of the stories as the characters themselves. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of these iconic movie mansions, uncovering their secrets and the allure that keeps us coming back for more.

Unraveling the Mysteries of Haunted Homes on the Silver Screen

Allerdale Hall: A Gothic Masterpiece in "Crimson Peak"

The Gothic mansion known as Allerdale Hall in Guillermo del Toro's "Crimson Peak" is a study in contrasts. Simultaneously terrifying and enticing, the English hillside home sits atop a red clay mine, slowly rotting away. Yet, its interior is packed with artistic details that captivate the senses. Carved wood points that resemble teeth accent the archways, while a wallpaper design featuring butterflies and moths conceals the word "fear" within its pattern. A real estate listing for this haunted abode might highlight its handful of fireplaces, high ceilings, an elevator that stops on all floors, and a collection of eccentric furnishings and decor. With too many rooms to count, Allerdale Hall is a property that defies the boundaries of the ordinary.

The Amityville Horror House: A Notorious Residence on Long Island

The 1925 Dutch Colonial known as the Amityville Horror House has long been one of the most notorious residences on New York's Long Island. Inspiring the 1979 horror classic of the same name, the movie tells the "true" story of George and Kathy Lutz, a young newlywed couple who fled the home just 28 days after moving in, claiming "a very strong force" drove them away. While the movie strays from the real history of the house, the set itself is remarkably similar to the original, particularly the two quarter-circle windows that resemble eyes. Beyond its unique architectural details, the fictional version of the Amityville Horror House is situated on the water, is quite spacious, and boasts lovely interiors with sparkling chandeliers and charming wallpaper. It's a dreamy setup that anyone would be lucky to call home.

The Eel Marsh House: A Haunting Retreat in "The Woman in Black"

Despite its unkempt yard and vine-swallowed facade, the Eel Marsh House in "The Woman in Black" has the potential to be the most delightful English country retreat. Portrayed by the real-life Cotterstock Hall in England's Northamptonshire, the house boasts stained glass windows, diverse wallpaper, and antique furnishings. And, as with any good haunted home, it features a dramatic staircase off the entrance, lined with gold-framed portraits.

Hill House: A Fairytale Castle in "The Haunting"

The Haunting's Hill House boasts a fairytale castle exterior that belongs to its real-life counterpart, the Ettington Park Hotel. This Gothic Revival mansion is actually available for fans to book a stay, allowing them to experience the property's grandeur firsthand. But the fictional interiors are equally captivating, with a large library featuring a cozy spiral staircase and bedrooms that are enviable retreats outfitted with lavish fabrics.

Manderley: The Alluring English Manor in "Rebecca"

In Daphne du Maurier's novel "Rebecca," the English manor house known as Manderley is an alluring central character. While Alfred Hitchcock's 1940 adaptation of the novel captures this essence, the 2020 film version of the estate is truly mesmerizing. Black-and-white checkered floors, Persian rugs, wood-paneled walls, and gilded antique frames and furniture are just a smattering of the enviable features on display. It's the kind of place where dreamers hope to be whisked away, where lavish meals and leisurely garden walks are part of daily life. In reality, six different filming locations were pieced together to portray the house, with Hatfield House and Cranborne Manor in England serving as the primary representations.

The Overlook Hotel: A Chilling Retreat in "The Shining"

While the Overlook Hotel in "The Shining" isn't a traditional house, it becomes the temporary winter residence of the Torrance family, making it a significant part of the film's haunting narrative. The hotel's main common area, with its chalet-inspired chandeliers, piano positioned near the fireplace, and ample seating, is a cozy setting that belies the cavernous proportions of the property. The gold room's shining tiles and red chairs give the hotel a sliver of groovy '70s elegance, while the carpets are masterful examples of David Hicks-style graphic patterns. And then there's the outdoor hedge maze, a murderous feature in the movie that could be transformed into a stunning refuge with the right care and attention.

Gracey Manor: A Haunting Abode in "The Haunted Mansion"

While the fictional Gracey Manor in the 2023 movie "Haunted Mansion" deserves an honorable mention, it can't quite compare to the one featured in the original 2003 version starring Eddie Murphy. The foyer's double staircase, prominent old clock, statues, and massive candelabras set the tone for the harrowing house. The wood paneling and flooring nod to the home's history, while the conservatory and proximity to a body of water suggest the potential for the property to become a true idyllic retreat with the right touch.

The Addams Family Mansion: A Moody Masterpiece

While it may be covered in dust and spiderwebs, the family home in the iconic 1991 film "The Addams Family" is quite a catch. With its long halls, grand split staircase, and spacious balcony, the property has an undeniable allure. In the main bedroom, dark purple walls and dramatic moldings create a moody atmosphere, perfect for a good night's sleep (not that Gomez lets Morticia get a wink). Imagine how welcoming the generous grounds would look after a thoughtful investment in landscaping.

Ennis House: A Unique Haunted Setting in "House on Haunted Hill"

"House on Haunted Hill" doesn't play into the usual Gothic or Victorian style structure for its haunted setting. Instead, it takes place at a house made of more than 27,000 blocks placed on top of a concrete platform. In reality, this textile brick house, known as Ennis House, was built by Frank Lloyd Wright in Los Angeles's Los Feliz neighborhood in 1924. While the Victorian-inspired interiors, which were built as entirely separate sets, don't match the exterior style, the mismatched aesthetic is part of the property's charm. It's the perfect house for anyone who doesn't want to commit to just one look.

The Maitland/Deetz House: A Quirky Abode in "Beetlejuice"

The funky house in the comedy-horror "Beetlejuice" is a bit reminiscent of New England's steepled white churches. While the massive house's shape proves to be perplexing and attention-grabbing, its wraparound porch and deck boost the property's curb appeal. Inside, we see two versions of the house: one by the Maitlands and the other redecorated by the Deetzes. The first is outfitted with traditional wallpaper and wood paneling, while the Deetzes give it a more modern, artsy makeover with an impactful dining room, cobalt blue kitchen, and glass fireplace mantel in the living room. It's a one-of-a-kind property that defies expectations.

The Boarding School in "The Awakening"

While "The Awakening" takes place at a boys boarding school, the building is a residence for many, making it a worthy addition to our list. Surrounded by vast greenery and water, this immense, gated property would be a delightful place to call home. The entry halls are especially pleasant, with spectacular moldings dotted with artwork and a staircase with iron rails. The rooms feature big windows, high ceilings, massive fireplaces, wood paneling, lovely wallpaper, and more – all the ingredients for a truly remarkable living experience.