Edinburgh Studios: Behind the Scenes of Dept Q

Season two of the Netflix series Department Q is currently filming in Edinburgh, Scotland, with production expected to continue until October. Executive producer Rob Bullock revealed that the sets, including detective Carl Morck's unusually spacious New Town flat and the abandoned shower quarters serving as the team's basement office, are built with remarkable attention to detail. These environments are designed to reflect the characters and their fictional cases.

The show's exterior headquarters doubles as the Brutalist Argyle House building, though its potential demolition is a concern for the production team, who are already undertaking digital scans. Showrunner Scott Frank's vision to base the English-language adaptation in Scotland is realized through Edinburgh's varied locations and studio facilities.

This new season, based on the book 'Disgrace,' is described as more ambitious and cinematic, featuring over 100 locations across Scotland and significant stunt set pieces. Matthew Goode returns as the characteristically grumpy Carl Morck, whose restraint contrasts with other characters' struggles in season two. The Scottish setting and cast contribute a unique dark humour, distinguishing it from its more bleak Scandinavian counterparts.

Leah Byrne, who reprises her role as DC Rose Dickson, emphasizes the show's "unashamedly Scottish" identity, blending light, humour, and darkness. The production is also a significant contributor to the local economy, providing work for technical staff and training opportunities for young people through a scheme funded by Screen Scotland, Sony, and Left Bank Pictures.

With eight more books in the series, the production team is hopeful for future seasons, aiming to continue this "Tartan Noir" tale. The cast and crew express enthusiasm for the job, with many willing to stay for up to ten seasons.