Standing Sets vs. Custom Builds: Which is Better?

07 Aug Standing Sets vs. Custom Builds: Which is Better?

Standing Sets vs. Custom Builds –

When it comes to choosing the right set for your film, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is whether to use standing sets or go for a custom build. Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on various factors like your budget, timeline, and creative vision. At Warehouse 1 Productions in Los Angeles, we offer both standing sets and the ability to customize spaces to meet your needs, so we understand how crucial this decision can be.

In this article, we’ll break down the differences between standing sets and custom builds, helping you make an informed decision for your next film project.

1. What Are Standing Sets?

Standing sets are pre-built, ready-to-use film sets that are designed to replicate specific environments. These sets can range from common locations like living rooms and offices to more unique settings like a medieval castle or a futuristic laboratory. At Warehouse 1 Productions, we offer a variety of standing sets that can be easily adapted to different film genres.

Standing sets are popular because they are convenient and cost-effective. They’re already built and designed, so you can start filming almost immediately after booking the space. This makes them a great option for productions with tight schedules or limited budgets.

2. What Are Custom Builds?

Custom builds, on the other hand, involve creating a set from scratch based on your specific vision. This means you can design and construct a set that perfectly matches the needs of your script, down to the smallest detail. Custom builds can be anything from a unique interior of a spaceship to an exact replica of a historical location.

While custom builds offer complete creative control, they also require more time and money. The process involves planning, designing, constructing, and decorating the set, which can be a significant investment for your production.

3. Pros of Using Standing Sets

– Cost-Effective: One of the biggest advantages of using standing sets is the cost savings. Because these sets are already built, you don’t have to spend money on construction, materials, or labor. This can free up more of your budget for other aspects of your production, like special effects or post-production.

– Time-Saving: Standing sets are ready to go, meaning you can start filming right away. This is especially beneficial if you’re on a tight schedule or have a short production timeline. There’s no need to wait for a set to be built, which can save you weeks of pre-production time.

– Flexibility: Many standing sets are designed to be versatile, allowing them to be easily adapted to fit different scenes or genres. For example, a generic office set can be transformed into a detective’s headquarters with the right props and lighting. At Warehouse 1 Productions, our standing sets are designed to be flexible, so you can customize them to fit your vision without starting from scratch.

– Proven Design: Since standing sets are used frequently, they are often well-tested and refined. You can trust that these sets are functional, well-designed, and camera-ready, reducing the risk of unexpected issues during filming.

4. Pros of Custom Builds

– Creative Control: The biggest advantage of a custom build is the ability to bring your exact vision to life. If your script calls for a specific, unique setting that you can’t find in a standing set, a custom build allows you to create it. This is ideal for films that require a very specific look or setting that isn’t readily available.

– Tailored to Your Needs: With a custom build, every detail can be tailored to your needs, from the layout and architecture to the colors and textures. This ensures that the set perfectly matches the tone, style, and story of your film.

– Unique Locations: Custom builds allow you to create one-of-a-kind locations that will make your film stand out. Whether you’re constructing a fantasy world, a period-specific location, or a futuristic city, a custom build gives you the freedom to design something truly unique.

– Full Control Over Functionality: When you build a set from scratch, you have full control over its functionality. You can design the set to work seamlessly with your camera angles, lighting, and action sequences, ensuring that everything flows smoothly during filming.

5. Cons of Standing Sets

– Limited Customization: While standing sets offer some flexibility, they may not always perfectly match your vision. If you need a highly specific or unique location, a standing set might require significant adjustments, which could negate the cost and time savings.

– Overuse: Because standing sets are used by multiple productions, there’s a chance that your set might look familiar to audiences. If originality is a top priority, this could be a drawback.

– Potential for Compromise: When using a standing set, you might have to make compromises to fit your vision into the existing design. This could mean adjusting your script or changing certain aspects of your film to fit the set.

6. Cons of Custom Builds

– Higher Costs: Custom builds are usually more expensive than using a standing set. The cost of materials, labor, and design can add up quickly, making it a significant investment for your production.

– Longer Timeframe: Building a set from scratch takes time. From the initial design phase to construction and decoration, a custom build can take weeks or even months to complete. This could delay your production if not planned carefully.

– Uncertainty: There’s always a risk that a custom build might not turn out exactly as you envisioned. Unlike standing sets, which are tried and tested, custom builds can encounter unexpected challenges during construction, which could impact your timeline and budget.

7. Which Option is Right for Your Film?

Choosing between standing sets and custom builds depends on your film’s specific needs, budget, and timeline. If you’re working on a tight budget or need to start filming quickly, a standing set might be the best option. Standing sets offer convenience, cost savings, and flexibility, making them a great choice for many productions.

However, if your film requires a unique, tailor-made environment, and you have the resources and time to invest, a custom build can bring your creative vision to life in a way that no standing set can. Custom builds offer full creative control and the ability to design something truly original, but they come with higher costs and longer timelines.

At Warehouse 1 Productions, we’re here to help you choose the right set for your film. Whether you decide on a standing set or a custom build, our team is ready to support your production with high-quality spaces and expert guidance. By carefully considering your budget, timeline, and creative needs, you can make the right choice and create a film that resonates with your audience. Contact us now.