Decorating Pages: TV and Film Design Production Designer Beth Mickle: Designing Superman’s World
Aug 26, 2025
Beth Mickle, an accomplished production designer known for her craft-driven work, discusses her creative journey in designing James Gunn’s Superman. She reveals the intricate process behind crafting over 200 glowing Fortress of Solitude crystals and the vibrant design of the Daily Planet. Beth also shares the art deco transformation of the Hall of Justice and the hidden Easter eggs throughout Metropolis. Her insights into character spaces and practical effects highlight the attention to detail that brings this iconic reboot to life.
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Color Palettes Define Each World
- Beth Mickle and James Gunn used strict, limited color palettes to give each world a distinct identity while keeping the film timeless.
- They combined vivid primaries with selective tertiary accents and stylized shapes to avoid dateable modern clutter.
Restrict Palette And Coordinate Departments
- Restrict color and shape choices per location to create a strong visual identity and avoid visual clutter.
- Coordinate costumes and props to maintain that palette so the world reads as cohesive and timeless.
Hall Of Justice Found By Chance
- Beth discovered the Cincinnati train station images in her lookbook and later found the actual location by chance through her art director's article.
- The team then traveled to Cincinnati and adapted the station into the Hall of Justice, keeping original architectural features.
