TV Show Sets and Their Reuse: A Guide to Set Recycling in the Industry

TV show sets, often meticulously crafted to fit the story's vision and setting, are a significant investment for production companies. However, the reality of television production often involves cost optimization and set reuse. This article explores how and why TV sets are reused, providing insights into the set recycling practices in the industry.

Understanding the Limitations of Set Reuse

TV sets are generally not reused for entirely different shows due to the specific designs and requirements for each production. For example, interior and exterior sets built for one show, such as The Law Order, Chicago Med, or Fire PD, are rarely utilized for unrelated series with distinct settings. However, there are instances where sets are reused for related shows within the same network or franchise. These reused sets might even have crossover episodes or guest appearances in other series.

Common Set Reuse Examples

One notable instance where a set was reused occurred in the original Star Trek series episode "City on the Edge of Forever," where the set of the Andy Griffith Show's Floyd’s Barber Shop was reused. This example illustrates how TV producers can reuse sets to save costs when there are no budget constraints.

There are also instances of set reuse in modern productions. Websites like 12 Pairs of Shows You Didn't Know Were Filmed on the Same Set offer numerous examples of how different shows can share the same sets, further highlighting the industry's cost-saving measures through set recycling.

Set Recycling Facilities and Materials

While most sets are reused within the same network or franchise, there are specific locations dedicated to set recycling. These facilities handle the storage, dismantling, and repurposing of set pieces. Located in Hollywood, these facilities are essential for managing the extensive inventory of sets and props that come with the vast number of productions in the area.

The materials used for set construction are typically 1x3s and 1/8 inch planks. The choice of these materials is driven by their cost-effectiveness and ease of transport. For instance, 1x3s and 1/8 inch planks are the most economical and quickest to build with, making them an ideal choice in the fast-paced world of television production.

Set Storage Costs and Management

Storing sets comes with significant costs, especially in the cost-sensitive environment of Los Angeles. Real estate prices in LA are notoriously high, and even a small stage set can cost upwards of $600 per month to store. This expense necessitates efficient set management and recycling practices.

Studio lots sometimes keep set pieces and parts for ongoing shows to repurpose for new scenes or as swing sets. Older and less-used sets are often disposed of or sold to set shops to make room for more current and relevant props and sets. This cycle of repurposing ensures that sets continue to serve the production needs of the industry, thereby optimizing costs and resource utilization.

Conclusion

While the practice of set reuse in TV production is common, it is often limited to related shows or within the same network. The cost-saving measures and the reuse of set pieces are driven by the need for efficiency and the desire to manage resources effectively. The dedicated set recycling facilities and the use of cost-effective materials like 1x3s and 1/8 inch planks further illustrate the industry's commitment to sustainable and economical practices.