The new Netflix series The Boroughs uses a mix of real-life locations and custom-built sets to create its sci-fi world. The eight-part mystery thriller is set in a seemingly picturesque retirement community, where a group of unlikely heroes must band together to stop an otherworldly threat from stealing time.
Created by Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews, the series is executive produced by the Duffer Brothers of Stranger Things fame. The production took advantage of the New Mexico desert and surrounding areas, with the majority of filming occurring in Santa Fe and Albuquerque, the latter famously known as the setting for Breaking Bad.
Netflix has its own large studio complex in Albuquerque, where much of the production took place. This includes the standout houses on the cul-de-sac where Sam and his neighbours reside, which were custom-built for the show. The Sandia Mountains also appear several times in the background during episodes.
The Manor, which serves as part headquarters of The Boroughs and a place for residents with extra needs, was partially filmed at a former Ramada by Wyndham Albuquerque East hotel. The business has since closed and been renovated into an apartment complex called Juniper Flats, intended to provide affordable housing for seniors.
Other notable locations include the abandoned desert town featured in episode 2, filmed at Bonanza Creek Ranch near Santa Fe. Established in the 1940s, this Western-style film ranch has a long history as a filming location for Hollywood productions, including previous Netflix shows like Godless and American Primeval.
