Craft

Inside the Art of TV World-Building: Producers Discuss Evolving Without Losing Their Original Vision

By Catriona Vale, Craft & Criticism EditorFebruary 17, 20241 note

Production designers for hit TV shows reveal how they balance innovation with maintaining a show's core aesthetic, highlighting the craft behind our favorite small-screen worlds.

The creators behind some of television's most beloved sets are revealing how they navigate the tension between creative evolution and preserving the original vision. During IndieWire’s recent Craft Roundtables, seven production designers from a diverse range of series unpacked the delicate art of world-building—balancing technological advancements with storytelling consistency. From 'RuPaul's Drag Race' to 'The Bear,' these professionals emphasize that every set choice influences narrative tone and viewer perception.

Designers like Jen Chu, who oversees 'RuPaul's Drag Race,' stressed the importance of modernization without sacrificing the show's iconic aesthetic. She explained how recent upgrades, like LED screens, serve to enhance flexibility but must complement the show's visual identity. Chu emphasized that technology should support storytelling, not overshadow it, especially on a show with such a passionate fanbase that’s sensitive to changes in its familiar environment.

Other designers discussed the challenge of evolving their sets while keeping the audience’s emotional connection intact. Merje Veske, working on 'The Bear,' noted that her team strives to create immersive environments that reflect the characters’ journeys. Similarly, Francois Audouy, who contributed to 'Euphoria,' shared how maintaining a consistent visual language is essential even as the show’s style becomes more experimental. These designers reveal that their work is often a balancing act between innovation and continuity.

The conversation revealed that decision-making often hinges on whether to stick with established motifs or to push creative boundaries. For instance, Susie Mancini, involved in 'The 'Burbs,' emphasized how her team adapts set design to fit new narrative arcs without losing the show's nostalgic charm. Meanwhile, Claire Bennett, who worked on 'Nobody Wants This,' highlighted the importance of audience familiarity—sometimes a subtle tweak is enough to keep a series fresh without alienating its core viewers.

The panel underscored that technological advancements like digital screens and augmented reality are tools that can expand creative possibilities. But these tools require careful integration to ensure they serve storytelling rather than dominate it. As TV production continues to evolve, the focus remains on crafting environments that support narrative depth while embracing new techniques. This balance is crucial for series that aim to stay relevant yet rooted in their original aesthetic.

Watch the full roundtable discussion on IndieWire to hear directly from the designers about their approach to evolving set design without losing sight of their initial vision.

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