Production Design
The Vampire Diaries
6 episodes including Season 7 Finale
The Vampire Diaries was known for its look. The sets and stories were varied in the places and periods in which they transpired. From 20th century mansions and castles to contemporary cave and armory tunnel systems to torture warehouses, this show kept things interesting where even the swing sets were feature quality.
I was the first Art Director to be bumped up to Production Designer from within. I designed the episodes that the Production Designer, Garreth Stover, directed. And when he and the executive producers left to Canada to work on a pilot toward the end of season 7, the Line Producer and I were left at the helm.
Art Direction
THE VAMPIRE DIARIES
3.5 seasons (5.5, 6, 7, 8)
Working on a long standing series like this one taught me that permanent sets are always a good idea. We even had a backlot of our own, with an alley and store fronts that changed from a 19th century bakery to restaurant to antique dealer, depending on the episodes' story line.
Some swing sets were award worthy and were sad to change over. The swimming pool set on Stage 2 comes to mind. We set it on fire for the scene. It's very interesting when one doesn't have to stick to reality.
I really appreciated the sets we constructed and was amazed at their quality. It was an excellent team that for the most part went on to the next series together. That says volumes about the crew of this show.