Do TV Show Prop Sets Get Reused? Why and How

One of the most intriguing aspects of television production is the reuse of prop sets and their various uses across multiple productions. This practice not only helps reduce costs but also ensures both financial and creative benefits. Let’s delve into why prop sets are often reused and how this is achieved in the industry.

Cost Efficiency and Time Savings

Building new sets for every production can be prohibitively expensive, and time-consuming. This is where the reuse of prop sets becomes a practical and beneficial solution. By reusing existing sets, production teams can save both money and valuable time. The initial cost of construction and the labor involved are already covered, allowing producers to focus on other aspects of production such as scriptwriting, editing, and post-production.

Optimizing Familiarity for Nostalgia and Appeal

Some sets, especially those that are iconic or recognizable, can evoke a sense of nostalgia or familiarity among viewers. This factor can enhance the appeal of a show or series. For instance, a specific set that has been well-received in a previous season or show can be adapted for use in a different episode or even in another show altogether. This continuity helps maintain viewer interest and can foster a sense of community around the brand.

Set Storage and Management

Production studios often have warehouses where sets are stored. If a set is well-constructed and can be adapted for different contexts, it makes sense to keep it for future use. This is particularly true for sets that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a courtroom set could easily be converted into a library, an office, or even a study. By storing these versatile sets, production companies can save on production costs and streamline their operations.

Creative Adaptation and Flexibility

Set designers can modify existing sets to fit new narratives or themes, allowing for creative reuse that can still feel fresh to audiences. This enables producers to reuse what would otherwise be a large investment in a unique set, while still offering a new and exciting viewing experience. For instance, turning a simple office set into a crime scene or a magical castle can breathe new life into the same space.

Special Cases: The Star Trek Universe

In the Star Trek universe, a unique case of prop reuse stands out. The iconic props and set pieces from the original series (TOS) have been utilized in subsequent shows and movies. For example, an Exocomp from The Original Series appeared in Enterprise, nearly 20 years later. This is partly due to Paramount’s decision to keep a large warehouse of everything related to the Star Trek franchise, including costumes and show models. The creative flexibility allowed by these arrangements has made reuse not just practical but also enriching for fans and advertisers alike.

Key Distinctions: Props vs. Sets

While prop sets are reused to save costs and enhance familiarity, stands (props) have different considerations. Props are objects used by actors and are typically returned to their owners when the show concludes. However, sets made out of more durable materials can be rented or stored for future use, especially if they are universal and can serve multiple roles. For instance, a courtroom set could be adapted for an office scene, and a White House Oval Office set could be used for a government office.

Using reused props and sets not only reduces production costs but also allows for greater narrative flexibility and can significantly enhance the viewing experience. Whether it’s the cost savings, familiarity, storage management, or creative adaptation, the reuse of prop sets is a valuable and strategic practice in television production.