Set Designer how-to

How to Develop a Set Design from a Script

Design serves the story.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Design serves the story. In short: read; list; research, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Read the script twice.

  2. List locations and needs.

  3. Research.

  4. Sketch ideas.

  5. Meet the director.

  6. Build a model.

Safety reminders for set designers

  • Follow scene shop safety
  • Design safe platforms
  • Follow fly system rules
  • Use fire-retardant materials

Ground plan · Elevation · White model · Rendering · Scene shop · Flat: see the full set designer glossary.

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