Ideas for the Second Idea

 My initial thoughts towards the second idea are that it should look very filmic in the way that the apartment she is in should , in my mind, look like a New York flat as this is more familiar to viewers in that it is what they are used to seeing on the screen and may make it look less like a student film and give the illusion of professionalism. I also think that you can achieve this illusion in grading; a heavily desaturated grade with hints of green would work towards making the room look cold, lonely and melancholic.

 The Machinist a desaturated tone, with lots of blues and greens. In some places, the film is almost black and white and really provokes a sense of isolation and depression. Also, it draws in the viewer whilst at the same time creating a feeling of detachment. Obviously, this isn't down to the grading alone but it does play an important role in contributing to the overall tone of the film. This is a technique that is also used to great effect in other things where the filmaker is trying to create a similar feeling.

 A perfect example is Park Chan-wook's 'Oldboy'. Although it is probably not used to the same extent as in The Machinist it still makes for a successful sinister atmosphere. This is quite a common technique with endless examples and is definately something to consider.