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The style of the performance is also one of the most important influencing factors for the set designer. If the style of the performance is naturalistic, the set designer has to create a set that is realistic, but if it is more abstract or minimalistic, then the set should be more symbolic.

The configuration of the stage impacts set design greatly. For example, in the round performances should not feature a tall set item in the middle, as it would block the audience’s viewpoint of the action. A consideration of levels is therefore important. For example, sometimes the seating and staging are flat against the floor and not raked, which means that characters can be difficult to see if they are sitting down or low to the floor. Audience sightlines should always be considered.

Materials that are used to construct the set have to:

• look good on stage
• be strong, particularly if they are being climbed on
• suit the budget

The colours used need to be part of the whole design picture and work together - it is important to remember that some materials may reflect colour and light. Some traditional theatre spaces have a backdrop, which can be painted or projected onto to help set the location or time of day.