Today we’d like to introduce you to Alessandra Manias.
Hi Alessandra , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In 2015, I left Italy with the idea of spending a year—maybe two—in Los Angeles. I saw it as a chance to experience something new, improve my English, and explore a different culture. At the time, I had absolutely no idea that I could build a career in entertainment. Film sets, production crews, Hollywood? It all felt distant—something I admired from afar.
Everything changed with a single email.
Driven by curiosity and a quiet hope, I reached out to a production designer, simply asking if I could assist or intern on a project. To my surprise, I received a response almost immediately. Three days later, I was on set for the first time.
That day, the production designer looked at my work and said something I’ll never forget:
“You’re not an assistant—you already know how to be a production designer.”
And just like that, he handed me my first feature film and a TV series to design.
Since then, I’ve worked on over 50 projects—feature films, shorts, series, commercials. I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with talented directors, producers, and crews from all over the world. Along the way, I’ve also received a few awards, which still feel surreal considering how it all began.
What was meant to be a short stay turned into a life-changing journey. Los Angeles became more than a temporary destination—it became home, a place where passion turned into profession.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been easy, especially in recent years—and honestly, I think we’re currently living through one of the hardest times for Hollywood.
First, we had the pandemic, which brought everything to a halt. Then, just as things were beginning to recover, the industry was hit by the major strikes. For me, 2023 was the toughest year. Work was incredibly slow, and I even made the decision to return to Italy for a while, because there simply weren’t enough productions happening.
Ironically, in 2024—while Hollywood and the union system continue to struggle—I’ve been fortunate to stay very busy. I’ve been working on several independent productions, including feature films and vertical mini-series. These smaller projects have really kept me going.
Unfortunately, the larger productions are no longer shooting in California due to the lack of tax incentives and the high costs. But I’m surviving—and growing—thanks to a wave of passionate, small-scale, independent work. It’s not the easiest path, but it’s one that still allows me to create and stay connected to what I love.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I work as a Production Designer for film, television, and documentaries—and in recent years, I’ve also started co-producing a couple of films.
Technically, my work begins with reading the screenplay. From there, I develop the visual style of the film and design the sets—everything from the architectural structure to the interior decor. I think through every detail to help bring the story’s world to life.
I’m also responsible for all props—whether it’s the glass an actor is drinking from, or custom-designed elements like futuristic gadgets, time machines, or any highly specific item the story requires.
What I love most about this job is that every project is different and completely unique. It allows me to express my creativity in countless ways.
My background is in architecture, but to do this job well, I need to be well-versed in many fields: fashion, materials, history, design, cultural references, accessories—essentially, everything that contributes to shaping a believable and visually compelling world for a character or a specific time period.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I never had a single mentor, but I find inspiration in the talents of many people across different fields—painters, sculptors, architects, fashion designers. I’m always looking for the essence and meaning behind their work, and I draw from that to shape my own creative approach.
For me, the best way to grow and stay relevant in this industry is simple: do excellent work every time you get the opportunity.
Working in film and television in Hollywood is a privilege, and I never take it for granted. I believe in working hard, being professional, and always delivering more than what’s expected. That mindset has carried me through every challenge and project I’ve faced.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alemaniasdesign.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alessandra_manias/
Image Credits
Alessandra Manias
