While other long-running shows constantly redesign sets, Days of Our Lives takes pride in preserving one of the most recognizable locations in television: the Horton family home. The cozy living room, floral décor, and warm lighting evoke nostalgia for millions of fans. But the story behind the set’s lasting stability is even more fascinating.
The Horton house debuted in 1965 and has remained remarkably consistent for decades. Though updates have been made to reflect modern cameras and color broadcasting, the overall design has stayed faithful to the original. Producers deliberately kept the warm wood tones, classic wallpaper, and iconic staircase, believing the set symbolizes the emotional grounding of the series.
One unexpected fun fact: the Christmas ornament tradition began off-screen. Originally, the cast created personalized ornaments as a morale-boosting activity. Producers loved the result so much that they incorporated it into the show, making the annual ornament-hanging ceremony a beloved holiday episode tradition. Some ornaments seen today date back decades and hold sentimental value for cast members.
Another interesting detail is that the kitchen and dining room have been rearranged multiple times—but always in ways that match the original layout. When the show relocated studio spaces, the Horton home was rebuilt plank by plank, using archived photos and design notes. Crew members describe the set as “almost sacred.”
Even more surprising: many actors feel emotionally connected to the set. Melissa Reeves (Jennifer Horton) has said that walking into the Horton home feels like visiting real family. For veteran cast members, the set holds memories of legendary actors like Frances Reid (Alice Horton), whose presence still influences the atmosphere during filming.
From a technical perspective, the set is masterfully designed. Every area is optimized for multi-camera shooting, with removable walls hidden behind bookshelves or cabinets. This allows the crew to capture intimate conversations while maintaining the sense of a real home. Lighting is carefully calibrated to create the warm tone that defines DOOL’s family scenes.
The Horton home’s longevity is a testament to the show’s commitment to tradition. It serves as a visual reminder of the show’s roots, a symbol of stability amid decades of dramatic twists. For viewers, the home is more than a set—it is an emotional cornerstone of Salem.
