Illusion Design & Construct

Illusion Design & Construct Bespoke scenic fabrication for theatre, television, exhibition and live events Our unique selling point is that we design as well as construct.

‘Illusion Design and Construct’ is a creative new company committed to designing and building high quality scenery for all sectors of the entertainment industry.

‘Illusion’ was born out of frustration with poor quality standards of modern scenery. We endeavor to produce interesting scenery that enthralls, influences and entertains, finished to the highest possible standard, but that is also pract

ical, reducing time spent fixing problems on site. We are happy to assist and even pilot the design process, which sets us apart from our competitors. This creative insight and ability to design allows us to empathize and creatively problem solve sympathetically to the designer’s vision. When given the freedom to design, our ability to create and an in depth knowledge of materials properties and their limitations, allows us to create original designs which attract attention and add an edge to any production. We recognize good, honest, flexible customer service is essential supporting our clients throughout the project. Communication is the key and we understand how busy our clients lives can be, so each job however large or small will receive its own dedicated project manager who, with an eye for detail, co‐ordinates every aspect of the process from inception to opening night guaranteeing a stress free process. With an advanced knowledge of numerous 2D/3D computer design programs, we will build your project part by part in order to highlight potential problems before they arise. It is this forethought, care and attention that allows us to produce modern, seemingly complex results with straightforward thinking. We adapt our building process to the project, to ensure maximum flexibility and creativity. Experimental and innovative, we are not afraid to challenge the traditional scenery methods and we often pioneer new techniques to try and make the process easier and produce scenery of any shape without compromising our high quality finish. We have many regular freelancers who have been working and collaborating with us since our launch. We pick individuals based on their merit and the requirements of the particular job. We ensure that all our workforce are as passionate as we are about the project and once assigned a task we ensure that they see it through to completion maintaining a consistent level of finish. With our experience in the industry we understand the importance of a deadline; providing anything from quotes to finished products at short notice is never a problem.

27/08/2024

Are you looking to join a dynamic team where you’re able to contribute to groundbreaking projects?

Working with a plethora of exciting client projects; some previous projects include The Brits, Green Planet experience (hosted by David Attenborough), Bridge Command, Swingers Golf and the Queen's Jubilee, we also offer fantastic benefits and strive to support you with additional training requirements allowing you to get the most out of the role.

If this sounds like the place for you, find out more about our current opening and apply here https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/3984533367/

21/08/2024

Step into our workshop and discover how we helped make this project for Secret Cinema come to life!

We were the chosen scenery fabricator for The Secret Cinema Casino Royale experience.

We're always up for a new creative challenge, whether you require construction, carpentry, artistic design or scenic fabrication. Get in touch to discuss your requirements:
https://www.illusiondc.com/get-in-touch

This   we're reminiscing some of our favourite project photography!🎭 Touring theatre set for ‘Ten Times Table' 🏆 Fashion...
19/08/2024

This we're reminiscing some of our favourite project photography!

🎭 Touring theatre set for ‘Ten Times Table'
🏆 Fashion Awards 2021 hosted by British Fashion Council at Royal Albert Hall
🚀 Bridge Command immersive spaceship experience
📸 Doctor Who experience. Image credits to Novak Collective

We're honoured to have been involved in creating such photographic and aesthetically pleasing designs, and excited for our upcoming projects in 2024 and beyond! 🙌

Delve into more photography of our previous projects below:
https://www.illusiondc.com/latest-work

We were recently asked to theme the Ranger Quest attraction at the Sea Life Centre which included creating a custom croc...
16/08/2024

We were recently asked to theme the Ranger Quest attraction at the Sea Life Centre which included creating a custom crocodile head.

Working to a prescribed design, we carved the statue from high-density PU foam. Our scenic finishing team then painted the crocodile head to give it a realistic finish.

At Illusion, we have vast experience in creative construction for a range of attractions and experiences across the UK.

Get in touch to see how we can support your next project:

📧 [email protected]
📞 0207 272 9255

We have a fantastic review from Paul Farnsworth, who was the designer of ‘The Bakers Wife.’ This project saw us create a...
14/08/2024

We have a fantastic review from Paul Farnsworth, who was the designer of ‘The Bakers Wife.’

This project saw us create a village setting in Provence, France, and we're thrilled to have gained such a positive comment on the authenticity of the set.

We were particularly amused to learn that on the night of the second show, the audience attempted to enter the cafe set. This really highlighted how authentic it looked!

📸 Image credit: London Theatre

Discover more about our previous theatrical work below:
https://www.illusiondc.com/latest-work

We’re hiring a Senior Project Manager!Our Senior Project Managers are responsible for taking a design from concept to co...
06/08/2024

We’re hiring a Senior Project Manager!

Our Senior Project Managers are responsible for taking a design from concept to completion working closely with both clients and the team in the workshop to transform bold ideas into reality.

This role is for you if you can:
Adapt and keep on track with bespoke client specifications.
Foster strong relationships with new and existing clients.
Maintain excellent time management skills to ensure projects stay on track.

To apply, send your CV to [email protected], alternatively, see the full details and apply here:
https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/3984533367/

This Sunday was  , so it's time to reflect on our previous musical projects. 🎶💃 The Cher Show's stage and scenery was bu...
22/07/2024

This Sunday was , so it's time to reflect on our previous musical projects. 🎶

💃 The Cher Show's stage and scenery was built by our talented team, following the direction of the designer Tom Rogers (Top left)

🎤 We have had the privilege of building scenery for Glastonbury Festival over the past ten years (Top right)

👑 We had the privilege of being the chosen scenery contractor for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee (Bottom left)

🏆 We built and delivered Harry Styles' BRIT Awards Limited stage that was featured when he opened the show. (Bottom right)

It has been a privilege to bring music to the stage in many ways over the years, and we can't wait for more projects in the future!

Head over to our website to discover more about our previous projects: https://www.illusiondc.com/

Tomorrow, on  , celebrate in style at Bridge Command, a live interactive experience now open in London.We were tasked wi...
19/07/2024

Tomorrow, on , celebrate in style at Bridge Command, a live interactive experience now open in London.

We were tasked with designing and constructing two fully operational spacecraft for this fantastic immersive experience and seamlessly integrated computer gaming software, synchronised with various AV triggers strategically positioned throughout the vessels.

Explore our project 👉 https://illusiondc.com/immersive-theatre-bridge-command-vauxhall-london

We recently worked in collaboration with Forta Productions to create a bespoke canopy and bandstand which took centre st...
12/07/2024

We recently worked in collaboration with Forta Productions to create a bespoke canopy and bandstand which took centre stage for their client's Grand Opening Celebration.

At Illusion, we can create and deliver a wide range of events materials, including props, sets and design centrepieces. We can encorporate exisiting branding and colour schemes to ensure that your custom design fits perfectly within the exisiting architecture, too.

Check out some examples of our latest work on our website. 👇
https://www.illusiondc.com/latest-work

We have three new hires! 👏Morgan Cooke joins Illusion as a junior draughtsperson, helping our wider design team to bring...
10/07/2024

We have three new hires! 👏

Morgan Cooke joins Illusion as a junior draughtsperson, helping our wider design team to bring our clients ideas to life. Morgan will support the production of coherent construction, bench and CNC drawings in AutoCAD as well as other 2D and 3D software.

In addition, Alex Donhou and Elliot Wright, regular freelance carpenters, have recently joined the team as permanent members of staff! We're thrilled to bring Alex and Elliot into our carpentry team to utilise their skills on a wider range of projects.

Welcome to the team; Morgan, Elliot and Alex, we can't wait to see what you achieve! 🙌

08/07/2024

🚀🎬 Introducing the Bridge Command project; watch the journey of our 12-week build!

We designed, constructed and supplied two fully operational spacecrafts to serve as the centrepiece for an immersive theatre and gaming experience.

The client provided a rendered image of the bridge of one spacecraft, serving as our starting point for developing the remaining design elements. While we assumed responsibility for the design process, we followed specific directives regarding key elements that were crucial to incorporate.

We brought our construction, design and logistics teams together to achieve the most impressive finish possible. 👇
https://www.illusiondc.com/immersive-theatre-bridge-command-vauxhall-london

🌞 We recently worked on a bespoke sundial project, in collaboration with Momentum Worldwide. We designed, built and inst...
05/07/2024

🌞 We recently worked on a bespoke sundial project, in collaboration with Momentum Worldwide.

We designed, built and installed the sundial for an Au Soleil event, which was hosted at Le Méridien Hamburg .📍

The sundial, which symbolises ‘golden moments’ which cannot be represented in minutes or hours, forms an integral part of the hotel's entranceway, and creates a stunning centrepiece on the balcony too. ⏱

Looking for bespoke design and construction services to showcase in your next event? Get in touch today! 👇
https://www.illusiondc.com/

On Tuesday, our Director Dan Hughes participated on the panel discussion at Broadsword's “Colouring Outside the Lines” e...
04/07/2024

On Tuesday, our Director Dan Hughes participated on the panel discussion at Broadsword's “Colouring Outside the Lines” event.

As part of Broadsword's 'B' Inspired series, this quarterly meet-up presented the perfect opportunity for event, brand and communications professionals to come together, network and learn new insights!

The panel session discussed how to push boundaries with branding, and Dan shared insight on crafting out-of-the-box props and design elements for your business. 🤝

Thank you to Broadsword for these images. 📸

Get in touch with our team to discuss how we can support your ambitious design plans!
📧 [email protected]
📞 0207 272 9255

28/06/2024

We recently worked on an intergalactic project available to explore near you. 🚀

Keep your eyes peeled for more behind-the-scenes footage and our favourite features of this one-of-a-kind immersive experience.

We are looking for some workshop crew/Labourers' to join our team. Full job description here - https://uk.indeed.com/job...
13/06/2024

We are looking for some workshop crew/Labourers' to join our team.

Full job description here - https://uk.indeed.com/job/workshop-crewlabourer-a65d742271dce3d6

Are you looking for a varied role in an exciting environment?
Do you have workshop or construction environment experience?

If you, or someone you know might be the right person for this role please get in touch.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Are you a metal fabricator looking for some freelance work? Feel free to share if you know someone who might be interest...
08/05/2024

Are you a metal fabricator looking for some freelance work?
Feel free to share if you know someone who might be interested.

We're looking for freelancers to join the team in our workshop, Belvedere, Kent.

Work available immediately, please get in touch with your availability.

📧 [email protected]

Are you a skilled draftsperson? Do you have experience in the scenic construction industry? Looking for an interesting r...
01/02/2024

Are you a skilled draftsperson?
Do you have experience in the scenic construction industry?
Looking for an interesting role, working with a great bunch of people?

If so, we'd love to hear from you!

We are looking to add a full time, permanent, Senior Dratfsperson to our team.

Full details and application information can be found in the link!
We look forward to hearing from you.

https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/3816416955/

A dramatic and beautiful set design, built here at Illusion, featuring charred wooden panels, sculpted and tiled floors ...
21/07/2023

A dramatic and beautiful set design, built here at Illusion, featuring charred wooden panels, sculpted and tiled floors and a golden mirror wall. ⭐⭐ 'Girl on an Altar' ⭐⭐ by Marina Carr is now showing at the Abbey theatre in Dublin until the 19th August. The play was first staged in London last summer receiving an impressive critical response.

📸 Photos by Pat Redmond
🌟 Set and costume design by Tom Piper
💡 Lighting Design by Amy Mae
📖 Direction by Annabelle Comyn

Open now at the Menier Chocolate Factory until the 9th September, 'The Third Man'. A very scenic art orientated build, b...
30/06/2023

Open now at the Menier Chocolate Factory until the 9th September, 'The Third Man'. A very scenic art orientated build, beautifully executed by our amazing scenic team!

'Its triumph is in its monochrome design, which seems like a black and white film come to life.' - The Guardian

⭐ Designed by

🇬🇧

23/06/2023
'Never seen this play before? You’re in for a treat. This is a production that will be considered a high benchmark for y...
23/06/2023

'Never seen this play before? You’re in for a treat. This is a production that will be considered a high benchmark for years to come.' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Time Out.

Built here at Illusion, The Crucible is now on at the Gielgud until the 2nd September. Starring Brian Gleeson, Milly Alcock and Caitlin FitzGerald.

Designed by the amazing
Photos by Brinkhoff/Moegenburg

In March we completed this lovely set for 'Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical stage Adaptation'. It was a firm favourite f...
06/06/2023

In March we completed this lovely set for 'Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical stage Adaptation'.
It was a firm favourite for our scenic art team and one of the most nostalgic sets we have done. The show is fantastic, and is touring the UK until September!




🇬🇧

We, at Illusion, are very proud to have been a part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Concert, and we are delighted that t...
16/05/2023

We, at Illusion, are very proud to have been a part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Concert, and we are delighted that the event has received a prestigious BAFTA award for BEST LIVE EVENT! Congratulations to everyone involved!

Designed by Stufish
BAFTA stargrouplive -house__

One of the most recent sets to leave our workshop is 'Marjorie Prime'. Open now until the 6th May, at the Menier Chocola...
28/04/2023

One of the most recent sets to leave our workshop is 'Marjorie Prime'. Open now until the 6th May, at the Menier Chocolate Factory. Get your tickets asap! 🌟

The Evening Standard calls it 'An intriguing meditation on Artificial Intelligence'

📖 Designed by Jonathan Fensom
📸 Photos by Manuel Harlan
💡Lighting Design by Emma Chapman

We have just completed another successful build and installation for , The Navy Yard in DC, Washington. This features 3 ...
11/04/2023

We have just completed another successful build and installation for , The Navy Yard in DC, Washington. This features 3 new courses and a British pub - The Swingers Arms! Our team were responsible for the golf courses, architectural theming and LED installations. Set dressing by

⛳️ ⛳️

This time last year we had just completed this set for the Lyric Hammersmith's production of 'Running with Lions'. It wa...
20/03/2023

This time last year we had just completed this set for the Lyric Hammersmith's production of 'Running with Lions'.
It was a lovely set designed by Soutra Gilmour with great paint finishes from our Scenic Art department.
📸 Jahvin Morgan

🇬🇧

We have recently become a founding partner of The Immersive Experience Network . We are really excited to be a part of, ...
13/03/2023

We have recently become a founding partner of The Immersive Experience Network . We are really excited to be a part of, support and share our experiences within this collaborative community. Exciting things are on the horizon. 👀

Read more about this company and its vision here https://immersiveexperience.network/

Our latest build 'Women, Beware the Devil' at the Almeida Theatre TIME OUT says - 'Lulu Raczka’s new play is a gleefully...
10/03/2023

Our latest build 'Women, Beware the Devil' at the Almeida Theatre
TIME OUT says - 'Lulu Raczka’s new play is a gleefully camp contemplation of the nature of evil'

Showing until the 25th March 🌟

📸 Marc Brenner

Illusion has a new website! ⭐ Fresh Design, gallery focused, with all the information you need. Check it out and get in ...
24/02/2023

Illusion has a new website! ⭐ Fresh Design, gallery focused, with all the information you need. Check it out and get in touch if you want to discuss an upcoming project! We are excited to hear from you! www.illusiondc.com

Address

Unit 8A Fishers Way
Belvedere
DA176BS

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

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Our Story

‘Illusion Design and Construct’ is a creative company committed to designing and building high quality scenery for all sectors of the entertainment industry. ‘Illusion’ was born out of frustration with poor quality standards of modern scenery. We endeavor to produce interesting scenery that enthralls, influences and entertains, finished to the highest possible standard, but that is also practical, reducing time spent fixing problems on site. We are happy to assist and even pilot the design process, which sets us apart from our competitors. Our unique selling point is that we design as well as construct. This creative insight and ability to design allows us to empathize and creatively problem solve sympathetically to the designer’s vision. When given the freedom to design, our ability to create and an in depth knowledge of materials properties and their limitations, allows us to create original designs which attract attention and add an edge to any production. We recognize good, honest, flexible customer service is essential supporting our clients throughout the project. Communication is the key and we understand how busy our clients lives can be, so each job however large or small will receive its own dedicated project manager who, with an eye for detail, co‐ordinates every aspect of the process from inception to opening night guaranteeing a stress free process. With an advanced knowledge of numerous 2D/3D computer design programs, we will build your project part by part in order to highlight potential problems before they arise. It is this forethought, care and attention that allows us to produce modern, seemingly complex results with straightforward thinking. We adapt our building process to the project, to ensure maximum flexibility and creativity. Experimental and innovative, we are not afraid to challenge the traditional scenery methods and we often pioneer new techniques to try and make the process easier and produce scenery of any shape without compromising our high quality finish. We have many regular freelancers who have been working and collaborating with us since our launch. We pick individuals based on their merit and the requirements of the particular job. We ensure that all our workforce are as passionate as we are about the project and once assigned a task we ensure that they see it through to completion maintaining a consistent level of finish. With our experience in the industry we understand the importance of a deadline; providing anything from quotes to finished products at short notice is never a problem.