As the nights begin to draw in and we look forward to cosy evenings in front of the TV with a great period drama, we look at the importance of authentic props in period pieces, and how Hemswell can help props buyers to find the perfect pieces.
Without a doubt, it is the attention to detail of the props department that can make or break a production. After all, we all know someone who scrutinises every detail on screen and who will instantly recognise when something is from the wrong era in a film or TV show! As a result, the sourcing and buying of props has become an art in itself, and for props buyers wanting to recreate the opulent 1920s, or wartime austerity, or the Bohemian kitsch of the 1970s, antique centres like Hemswell offer a treasure trove of opportunity.
Contemporary props warehouses and suppliers of reproduction pieces fall short by comparison simply because they cannot replicate the genuine history found at Hemswell.
Authenticity of antique props
One of the strongest arguments for sourcing your props from Hemswell Antique Centres is the authenticity we offer. We understand that props aren't just background decoration; they contribute significantly to the atmosphere and credibility of a scene. Whether it’s a period writing desk or an Art Deco tea set, using genuine, original period items gives a realism that the best reproductions often fail to provide. It is those subtle signs of use, the authentic, period-specific construction techniques, and the genuine patinas that create visual and historical depth.
Expertise on hand
Unlike sellers at general second-hand shops or online marketplaces, the dealers who sell at antiques centres are experts in their fields. Their knowledge can be an invaluable resource for props buyers, especially when sourcing for specific time periods or regions. A seasoned antiques dealer can quickly point you toward the right retro furniture, antique lighting, or vintage decor for a given era—and they will often offer insights into the item's provenance or historical context.
At Hemswell Antique Centres, we understand the needs of TV and film production teams and our expertise can also help with different aspects beyond props sourcing, including deadlines and transport logistics. Our Managing Director, Robert Miller, has extensive experience of working with production clients and is used to working with tight schedules and evolving design briefs.
Antique centres offer a wealth of experience
Based not far from the cathedral city of Lincoln, Hemswell is within easy reach of many popular locations including Lincoln Cathedral (Netflix – The King 2019), Lincoln Prison (ITV – Downton Abbey 2012), and Burghley House and Stamford (Pride and Prejudice 2005).
Having supplied items for a wide range of productions, we understand the unique needs of props departments - short-term rentals, bulk acquisitions, and last-minute finds – and our clients appreciate that our location allows us to step away from the price points found in London.
Additionally, on the rare occasions where clients are looking for a specific piece that we do not have, we can put out a plea through our dealer portal, expanding our reach well beyond what’s on display. So, if you’re looking for a Regency-era mirror or a mid-century Scandinavian coffee table, chances are someone in our network will locate it quickly.
Hemswell Antique Centres offer diversity and choice
Our 400+ dealers, housed in 4 extensive buildings, offer a vast choice of items. It is this concentration of variety and choice in one location that allows props buyers to browse an array of items across periods in a single visit, often stumbling upon unexpected gems along the way.
Whether you’re building a Victorian parlour, equipping a kitchen from the 1950s, or recreating a Tudor courtroom, the diversity of stock at Hemswell is unmatched. It’s not just about ticking items off a list—it’s about inspiration and discovery, and we are always happy to help!
As our Managing Director recently said, “When sourcing props for your latest television shoot, getting the look just right is everything. With years of experience working alongside interior designers and prop buyers, I understand the pain points that can challenge projects, from tight deadlines to sourcing authentic pieces that fit the brief.”
Antique props from Hemswell Antique Centres
In an industry where authenticity matters and detail is everything, Hemswell is more than just a shopping destination – we are proud partners in a wonderful storytelling process. Props buyers can rely on our authenticity, expertise, experience, and variety, to elevate their work, enhance the believability of their productions, and help transport audiences back in time.
For period productions serious about getting it exactly right, antique centres aren’t just an option, they’re an essential asset. But, if you are unable to visit us in person, our Managing Director will arrange a personal virtual tour for you, via Zoom or FaceTime so that you can find exactly what you need, from wherever in the world you are.
We welcome all enquiries from the TV and film industries over the phone on 01427 668 389 or via email.
