Building “American Primeval” from the Ground Up: The Epic Art of Set Decoration with Set Decorator David Hack on Decorating Pages

Go behind the scenes of Netflix’s American Primeval with Set Decorator David Hack as he shares the craftsmanship, cultural collaboration, and unpredictable challenges of designing for a rugged Western world.

🎙️ Introduction: Inside the World of American Primeval

When it comes to large-scale historical television, few series capture the grit and grandeur of the American frontier like American Primeval on Netflix. In this episode of the Decorating Pages podcast, host Kim Wannop sits down with acclaimed set decorator David Hack to explore the creative process behind this ambitious production. From the deserts of New Mexico to snow-covered outposts, Hack reveals how every element of American Primeval’s visual landscape was built with care, community, and cultural respect.

🏜️ From City to Desert: How American Primeval Found Its Home in New Mexico

David Hack’s journey to the heart of American Primeval began unexpectedly. After decades in Austin, a pilot project in Albuquerque coinciding with the pandemic turned into a permanent relocation. His work on the Netflix series became one of the most challenging and fulfilling projects of his career, thanks in part to the region’s rugged terrain and tight-knit creative community.

🎪 From Family Roots to Frontier Realism

Hack’s origin story is as unique as the sets he builds. Starting in Houston with family ties to the industry, his decades-long career ultimately led him to helm projects like Flamin’ Hot and now American Primeval. His unorthodox path underscores the power of persistence, collaboration, and being in the right place at the right time.

🔨 Building the World of American Primeval from the Ground Up

The sets of American Primeval are their own characters—forts, villages, shops, and outposts meticulously constructed in remote outdoor locations. “We built everything,” Hack recalls. “Every crate, bench, and lantern was fabricated to reflect the era.”

A standout element was the collaboration with Shoshone tribal members, who helped create culturally accurate teepees. These moments of craftsmanship also became moments of community restoration, with younger and older generations working side-by-side.

🌪️ Battling the Elements on the American Primeval Set

New Mexico’s beauty came with challenges—dust storms, snow, and even unpredictable injuries that shifted shoot schedules. “Every day brought something new,” Hack explains, detailing how the American Primeval crew had to stay nimble and resourceful throughout filming.

📚 Research, Authenticity, and Cultural Respect on American Primeval

Accuracy was non-negotiable for Hack and his team. Extensive research, historical consultation, and collaboration with Native cultural advisors ensured the world of American Primeval was more than just visually striking—it was responsible and rooted in truth. Assistant Set Decorator Kelly Miller played a key role in ensuring cultural materials and symbols were properly represented.

🎯 Leadership on Set: Letting the Team Shine

Hack attributes much of American Primeval’s success to his crew. By creating an environment where team members—from PAs to prop masters—could share research and input, the project benefited from a diversity of ideas and passion. “The creativity is there... you just have to listen.”

❤️ Conclusion: Why American Primeval is a Set Decoration Triumph

David Hack’s work on American Primeval is a masterclass in storytelling through environment. From historical accuracy to community impact, the show is a testament to how great set design can elevate an entire series. It’s more than dressing a set—it’s breathing life into a world.

🎧 Listen to the full episode of Decorating Pages to hear more behind-the-scenes stories from American Primeval and learn why David Hack’s work continues to inspire the next generation of set decorators.