Refraction: Set Design
Analysis
Refraction is the first short film I’ve ever created. I used this film as a way of demonstrating my set design skills and capabilities. Not only that, but it showcases my creativity and determination due to the fact that I’ve never written, directed, edited, or designed anything before. With that said, there were many questions and situations that required creative solutions.
Floor Plan
The image to the left shows the floor plan of Kat’s bedroom from 1981. This floor plan was a way of planning out the orientation of the furniture and showed how they would fit within the space. The floor plan also gave the ability to have a bird’s eyes view of the room in order to plan how the camera will be able to move about the bedroom. This was important because the room was quite small, especially with the actors, lighting, and camera equipment in there as well.
3D Rendering
With some furniture pieces already in the bedroom, such as the dresser and the bed, I knew that the desk and the mirror would need room to be added. This is because it plays a huge role in the film seeing as there are a few important scenes that take place at the desk. The mirror also acts as a window into the past that allows the audience to see Kat, while still in the present with Kiara. The 3D rendering offered a way to see how colors and materials would play off of each other and impact the final room design.
After researching 1981 interior design trends as well as trends from the late 1970s, I had a clear vision in my mind of how I wanted the space to look and feel. I began visiting thrift shops for authentic 1970s and 80s pieces for the set dressing. Set design not only played a role in the visual aspect of a film but also as a story telling method. Many of the design elements such as the wallpaper, artwork, and plants directly correlate to support Kat’s character and personality. Floral wallpaper, pillow covers, and decor represent Kat’s femininity as well as her delicacy. Dark wood tones and lighting represent her toughness and determination for her career. The polaroids and duvet represent her strong family ties and her love for her friends and family.
