New Storage Building for Set-Up (Scenery) Ltd

90mm thick concrete panels

We recently designed, manufactured and constructed this 45m x 20m x 6.7m industrial building for Set-Up (Scenery) Ltd in Hertfordshire.

We love the colours that were chosen – black cladding and white painted steel, especially as they are quite different from the colours we usually provide.

The white painted steel in our yard, ready to be delivered to Set-Up (Scenery) Ltd

Concrete panels from sister company Concrete Panel Systems were fitted to both sides and gable ends, which were 90mm thick and to a height of 1m.

We got in touch with our customer, Mark, from Set-Up (Scenery) Ltd as we were interested to hear more about his business, which produces & supplies bespoke sets and props to the theatre industry, and also asked for feedback on the building from us here at Graham Heath.  He kindly gave us the following answers:

Please could tell us more about Set-Up (Scenery) Ltd?

“We build scenery for theatres, not TV or film, they’re very different.  The stuff we make has to last for a long time and is carefully engineered to be dismantled, transported and reassembled in as quick a time as possible.  So as well as the engineering, in steel or timber, there is the art, whether that’s painting walls a flat colour or creating multi layered texture for bricks or trees or old flaking wallpaper, this is where the magic happens.” 

How long has Set-Up (Scenery) Ltd been in operation?

“We started 21 years ago in a small pig shed and a few hand tools.  Now we have about 20 staff and 21,000 ft² of workshop enabling us to assemble 2 complete West-End size sets at the same time.”

What is your business aim/vision?

“We just want to keep doing what we are doing, enjoying life and work, not losing money and pushing the industry to become more environmentally friendly.”

What was the purpose of your new building?

“When we first moved to our current location the building was 10 times bigger than the old workshop giving us spare room.  We got into scenery storage and found a market.  Now that we need the whole workshop, this new building is to service the storage side of the company.  So this is existing shows that either come off the road or out of a theatre for a period of time before being re-staged.  They often need a bit of re-working so go back into the workshop before going out again.”

Were there any specific material or design requirements for the build?

“We have come up with a system of bays and removeable mezzanine decks, so the bay layout was very important.  Also we just needed it to be vermin proof and watertight, not insulated and without direct sunlight to fade the items in store, so we have rooflights on the North elevation only.”

Why did you choose Graham Heath?

“In researching a building supply and erection company I spoke with local farmers and saw the quality of work from Graham Heath.  It’s not rocket science but existing customers were happy with the service.”

Are there any features of your building that you are particularly pleased with?

“All of it.”

We are thrilled to hear that Mark is happy with the building and quality of work. Also that existing customers are recommending us to other local businesses!

For more information on Set-Up (Scenery) Ltd you can visit their Website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.

Time lapse video sent to us by Mark which shows the erection of this 45m x 20m x 6.7m industrial building

Do you need a quote for your next building project? Don’t hesitate to contact our team today on 01270 781158, email info@gh-construction.co.uk or request your free quote here.

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