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Specialists in bespoke glass-fibre reinforced plastics (grp)

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We Make TV Props

Fully Painted GP Prop Wall

How TV Production Companies Create Realistic Sets and TV Propswith GRP Technology

The Magic Behind TV Production Sets

Have you ever marvelled at the realistic TV Props and sets of your favourite TV shows? While talented location scouts tirelessly search for the perfect real-world settings, practical constraints often make shooting on actual locations infeasible. Instead, production companies frequently turn to innovative solutions like constructing bespoke locations within studio premises to achieve the desired visual effects without the logistical nightmares.

Harviglass Fibre Build TV Props and Sets

A prime example of this ingenuity can be seen in the work done by Harviglass Fibre for the iconic British soap opera, Coronation Street. The set’s design required a level of realism that could withstand the scrutiny of high-definition cameras. To meet this challenge, ITV Business Services enlisted Harviglass Fibre to replace the ageing GRP (Glass glass-reinforced plastic) walls that had adorned the set for years.

the old walls
the old walls were getting past their best

The Process of Creating GRP Walls

The necessity arose when it became apparent that the original GRP walls, which had been part of the set for an extended period, were visibly deteriorating. This wear and tear would only be magnified by the new HD filming techniques. The solution involved a meticulously crafted process starting with a visit to the site to take a mould of the brick pattern from ‘Dev’s Shop’—a central location in the show. This mould would serve as the blueprint for all subsequent GRP walls.GRP TV Prop of a Plain White Brick Wall

Back at their facility, Harviglass Fibre used this mould to create timber frames that matched the exact size required for the walls. GRP skins were then applied to these frames. These pre-fabricated walls were delivered to the set, where they were painted on-site by ITV’s specialist decorators to seamlessly blend with the existing brickwork.

The half painted prop walls.
We began painting the walls in the sunlight

Beyond Walls: Expanding the Use of GRP in Set Design

Harviglass Fibre’s collaboration with Coronation Street didn’t stop at wall panels. Using the original mould, they expanded their repertoire to include GRP skins with window frames, enhancing the backdrop of the show’s set with additional structures. These elements were mounted on scaffolding systems, forming a convincing façade of terraced houses.

The realism and quality of these props have not only supported the production of Coronation Street but have also gained recognition and appreciation from fans and industry peers alike, as noted in articles and blog posts across various fan sites.

Harviglass Fibre’s ability to deliver highly realistic, durable props makes them a top choice for TV productions and theatre companies looking to bring their creative visions to life. Whether you’re looking to create a vintage street scene or a futuristic spaceship interior, the possibilities with GRP technology are nearly limitless.

Fully Painted GP Prop Wall
Fully Painted GP Prop Wall

Do You Need Custom TV Props for Your Production?

If you’re inspired by the potential of Bespoke GRP in transforming your set design, consider what Harviglass Fibre can bring to your project. Connect with us to explore how we can assist in making your creative vision a tangible reality.

Explore Our GRP Solutions

Ready to take your set design to the next level? Contact Harviglass Fibre for bespoke prop solutions tailored to your production needs!

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