Head film decorator

Role and missions

Contacted by the producer, director, artist or gallery owner, the head set designer is responsible for proposing different set concepts after reading the script several times.

He draws up the plans for the project, makes the models and draws up a complete and detailed estimate. They then order the raw materials needed to complete the project.

He is responsible for the execution and installation of the sets, planning the various stages of manufacture and supervising their installation on the film sets.

On certain projects (exhibition or museum decoration), you will have to take into account safety regulations and the flow of visitors in your workspace.

They work closely with the props designer and the technical teams.

Diplomas and training

A number of courses prepare you for the job of chief set designer, but it is strongly recommended that you start by training in spatial design (to become a set designer) in addition to further training in drawing, in order to acquire the representation techniques essential to the practice of this profession.

It is essential to take part in a large number of internships to become aware of the complexity of the profession.

Skills and qualities required

As an artist, you know how to draw and have a great imagination for transcribing different times and places for the needs of a project.

With their excellent knowledge of art and the decorative arts, they know materials, their properties and their specific characteristics (weight, stability, strength, etc.) to perfection.

They have a solid grounding in architecture, design and graphics, while mastering all the software essential to their profession.

They enjoy teamwork and management, and their sense of rigour and organisation are crucial.

-In the cinema, the head of set design has the same role and the same tasks, but needs to have greater powers of persuasion in order to be able to defend a project and get it accepted by the director, with whom relations are not always ideal. You have to be able to impose your ideas and choices, which can sometimes be strong, to succeed as a film set designer.

Careers and career opportunities

Head set designers can work in a wide range of fields, including television, film, theatre and events. They may be employed by an architectural firm on a salaried basis or join a production team for a fixed period.

The majority of set designers are self-employed, commissioned by local authorities, individuals or private companies.

After several years of practice, they may open their own company, either to hire out sets or to create their own designs, thus developing their own business.

At the end of their career, set designers can move on to a teaching post.

Salary expectations

Set designers have the status of intermittent entertainment workers or salaried employees, with salaries ranging from €1,640 gross per month for a beginner to €6,000 gross per month for an experienced set designer. On average, an experienced set designer earns between €2,000 and €3,000 gross per month.