The Secret Behind the Oval Office Set: How Toronto’s Downsview Park Film Studios Made TV History

Designated Survivor, the critically acclaimed American political thriller series, is not only known for its gripping plot and strong performances but also for the authenticity of its background sets. One of the most recognizable and frequently used sets in the show is the Oval Office. This set was meticulously crafted by the production team at Downsview Park Film Studios in Toronto, Canada. The studio is renowned for its ability to recreate authentic settings that transport audiences into the world of the show. Let's explore the fascinating journey of this iconic set and the incredible work that went into its creation.

Introduction to Downsview Park Film Studios

Downsview Park Film Studios is a premier production facility located on the outskirts of Toronto, Canada. With its state-of-the-art facilities and vast property, the studio has become a go-to location for many television and film productions. The studio's commitment to detail and authenticity often translates into some of the most lifelike sets that transport viewers into the fabric of the story. In the case of Designated Survivor, the creators chose Downsview Park Film Studios specifically because of their reputation for producing convincing and detailed sets that reflect real-world settings.

The Construction of the Oval Office Set

The construction of the Oval Office set for Designated Survivor was a monumental task undertaken by the dedicated team at Downsview Park Film Studios. This set was not built to a standard template, but rather required meticulous attention to detail to ensure it was as authentic as possible. The team undertook extensive research to capture the essence of the White House's iconic room, which required a combination of visual references, historical data, and creative ingenuity.

Step-by-Step Construction Process

The construction process began with the team at Downsview Park Film Studios creating a detailed scale model of the Oval Office. This model allowed the designers and engineers to visualize the layout and ensure that every inch of the set was true to the real-life version. The model was then used to plan the precise construction of the walls, floors, ceiling, and all of the intricate details that would be necessary to create the authentic feel of the space.

The walls of the set were constructed from high-quality plaster and painted with a durable yet realistic finish. The floor was made from a combination of matte black wood and a carpet that closely matched the original. The ceiling was carefully designed to replicate the warm, heritage tones of the original fixture, adding to the overall authenticity of the space.

The set also included a variety of props and furniture pieces that would be used during the filming. These items, such as the presidential desk, chairs, and various artifacts, were sourced from reputable antique dealers and were carefully chosen to match the period and style of the show. The team also added subtle details such as books, papers, and signage to make the room feel lived-in and real.

The Behind-the-Scenes Look

Interestingly, the set is not only used for the Oval Office scenes, but it is also versatile enough to be repurposed for other settings within the show. This was a major consideration during the construction phase to ensure that it could meet the needs of the producers as the story progressed. The flexibility of the set allowed the production team to transition seamlessly between various scenarios and environments, contributing to the seamless storytelling of the show.

The team at Downsview Park Film Studios also wrote an extensive manual detailing every aspect of the set, from the materials used to the placement of every prop. This documentation was essential for maintaining the consistency of the set throughout the filming process. The manual included detailed schematics, construction notes, and even instructions for the crew on how to properly maintain the set.

The Impact on the Show

The authentic and meticulously crafted Oval Office set has significantly contributed to the success of the show. The set has not only earned critical acclaim but has also enhanced the viewer's immersion into the political drama. Viewers are often impressed by the attention to detail and the authenticity of the set, which adds an extra layer of realism to the story. This level of attention to detail is not lost on critics and fans, and it has undoubtedly helped to elevate the show's reputation as a well-produced television series.

Recognition and Awards

The production team at Downsview Park Film Studios has also received recognition for their work on the set. The set has been showcased in various industry publications and has been cited by critics as one of the most impressive and authentic sets in television today. The team has received several awards and nominations for their work on the set, testament to their dedication to creating a believable and detailed environment for the show.

Conclusion

The creation of the Oval Office set for Designated Survivor is a testament to the skill and dedication of the production team at Downsview Park Film Studios. From the first sketches to the final touches, every detail of the set was meticulously planned and executed to ensure that it met the high standards of the show. This set is not just a backdrop; it is an integral part of the story, contributing to the realism and authenticity of the show. As the show continues to captivate audiences, the legacy of the Oval Office set at Downsview Park Film Studios will remain a shining example of how a meticulously crafted set can enhance the viewing experience.

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