In the world of live events, creating memorable experiences hinges on the blend of technical expertise and creative design. Sets Drapes Screens (SDS), the set-building subsidiary of Gearhouse South Africa, aims to be at the forefront of this fusion, delivering tailored set solutions that bring events to life across the continent.
SDS began with a late-night conversation between Gearhouse South Africa’s Directors and then-Project Manager, Pieter Joubert, about a gap in the market. While local companies focused on exhibition sets, few addressed the scale and complexity of live events. Their vision: a Gearhouse-affiliated service, led by Joubert, to better serve clients and raise industry standards.
Combining the deep set-building knowledge of co-Director, Craig Pretorius, with Gearhouse’s vision enabled SDS to define a unique space in the market as the first company in South Africa to offer both technical supply and in-house set construction. In its early years, SDS invested in state-of-the-art CNC machines and spray booths, and built a versatile team.
Towards the end of 2008, SDS integrated the Cape Town-based Scenic set building division, bringing in Branch Manager, Jaques Gunning, and Branch Operations Manager, Burger Smit. This not only broadened SDS’s geographical reach but also enriched its talent pool.
Eight years on from establishing the company, the untimely passing of set-building veteran Steve Collins in 2015 marked a challenging period for SDS. Collins’ three and a half years of consultancy had infused the company with decades of wisdom and experience, laying a solid foundation for future endeavours. However, the arrival of David Smith as Branch Manager brought renewed energy and expertise, with his carpentry skills complementing Joubert’s rigging and scaffolding knowledge.
Over the next five years, the company more than doubled in size, excelling in studio sets and introducing innovations such as South Africa’s first borderless dual-view screens and a comprehensive stock of fire-retardant drapes for hire. “While we have always invested in the technology and machinery, what also came after 2015 were dedicated drafting, operations, and project teams,” explained Joubert. “We borrowed from the exhibition industry model but tailored it to fit the live event industry and the unique setup of Gearhouse Group.”
SDS plays an integral role within Gearhouse Group, offering services aligned with the group’s broader technical capabilities. Under the guidance of Ben Swanepoel in Johannesburg, Burger Smit in Cape Town, and Pieter Brink in Durban, SDS delivers everything from fully customised set manufacture and modular stock solutions to bespoke furniture, premium drapery, and screen rentals.
Aside from its custom set-building offerings, the company has established itself as a reputable supplier of high-end drapery services, offering a diverse range of drapes as well as kabuki and festoon systems. With a focus on safety, SDS ensures that all draperies meet international safety standards while maintaining a luxurious aesthetic.
Over the years, SDS has delivered for a range of high-profile events – from international summits and award ceremonies to brand activations for Johnnie Walker, Heineken, Don Juloi and Loreal, major sporting events like the Africa League, FIFA, FIFA World Cup Opening Concert and IPL and entertainment productions including 17 consecutive Bidvest Chairman’s Evenings. SDS has also played a supporting role in world-stage moments such as the BRICS meetings, Mining Indaba and FIFA conference in 2013.
Alongside its work on live events, SDS has earned a strong reputation within the TV industry, with the company’s capabilities illustrated by the simultaneous live broadcast of six SDS-built studios – including SuperSport Studios 1 and 6, Deal or No Deal, Wheel of Fortune, Newsroom Africa, and The Masked Singer – on a single evening.
Looking ahead, SDS is poised for further expansion. In late 2025, the Durban branch will introduce custom-built flight case manufacturing, offering robust, precision-designed transport solutions for technical equipment.
“Our staff composition mirrors South Africa’s rich demographic tapestry and skillset,” Joubert concluded. “Our teams also integrate seamlessly with the broader Gearhouse operation. Gearhouse has an intrinsic understanding of international standards, whether for corporate events or concerts, large or small. Being part of the Group empowers us to meet global expectations and deliver world-class services with impeccable finishes.”
Photos: SDS
