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This article pulls back the curtain on the fascinating world of set design. We’ll take you on a step-by-step journey alongside the set designer, exploring the key stages that bring a script to life.

This article continues our series on Set Design Workflow. If you haven’t seen the previous one, we recommend reading it first.

Phase 2: Preliminary Design

Preliminary design s a foundational step in making a set come to life. At this stage, we turn initial ideas into more concrete plans. We create sketches, rough models, and mood boards to visualize how the set will look. Our team discusses and refines these ideas to make sure they fit the overall vision and practical needs of the project. We also start looking into materials and methods that might be used. This phase helps us figure out potential challenges and sets a clear direction for the next steps in the design process.

LOCATION SCOUTING /IF APPLICABLE /

To scout locations for a film, first read the script to see where each scene should take place. Visit potential spots and check their look, ease of access, lighting, and sound. Take plenty of photos and videos, and make notes about each location. Share this information with the director and key team members. Finally, consider things like how easy it is to get to the location, the cost, and any permits needed before making your final choice.

DRAFT DRAWINGS

After scouting the location, initial planning drawings are created to present different variants of the required set design. These drawings consider various aspects of the decor. Firstly, they address the scenery requirements according to the script. Additionally, they incorporate the director’s vision and the operator’s needs for shooting scenes, including considerations for lighting and other technical requirements.

DRAFT MODELING / IF NEEDED /

In the initial stages of designing, draft study paper models or 3D digital models are created to explore the preliminary plans in size and volume. They aim to examine different volumetric solutions that best align with the director’s vision, the designer’s instructions, and other specific requirements. However, creating such 3D models is not always necessary. They are only needed for location sets when significant changes are to be made. Minor changes, such as altering door types, repainting, or covering windows, do not require 3D modeling.

MOOD & MATERIALS

Creating a mood board is an absolute must in the pre-production phase of film and TV projects. A mood board is the perfect way to explore the visual style you want for your film and serves as a reference for everyone to visualize the final result. The imagery included in your mood board helps express the look and feel of your film. Images can define elements such as style, tone, texture, lighting, and color. The mood board can include everything from film stills to real material samples—anything necessary to visualize the envisioned by the Production Designer.

DRAFT COST ESTIMATION / IF NEEDED /

At this stage of the filmmaking process, developing a preliminary budget based on the preliminary drawings is crucial for the successful completion of the project. Detailed visual representations of the set designs enable a preliminary assessment of the materials, labor, and time required for construction. This allows producers to allocate resources efficiently, anticipate costs, and identify potential financial constraints early on. By ensuring that all aspects of the set design are accounted for, the preliminary budget helps to avoid unexpected expenses and ensures that the project stays on track, contributing to a smooth and successful production process.

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With the completion of this stage, we’re now ready to move onto the next phase of our set design workflow -> Construction Design

… and to find more about this phase, you’ll need to read Part 3 of this of article.

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