E. Jay Krause (1925-2023): A Legacy In Set Design For Hollywood Squares

Viktoria Ivanova

4 min read

Post on May 06, 2025

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The Evolution of the Hollywood Squares Set: Krause's Creative Vision

The Hollywood Squares set wasn't static; it evolved throughout the show's long run, reflecting changing trends in television design and Krause's own creative vision. Understanding this evolution helps appreciate the full extent of Krause's contribution to Hollywood Squares set design. His work exemplifies the power of television studio design in shaping a show's overall appeal.

• Early set designs and their characteristics: The initial sets were simpler, focusing on functionality rather than elaborate aesthetics. Think basic seating arrangements and a minimal stage setup.

• Key changes implemented by Krause and their impact: Krause's involvement brought a significant shift. He introduced bolder colors, more dynamic layouts, and a playful use of space that mirrored the show's comedic nature. This created a more engaging and visually stimulating environment for both contestants and viewers.

• The distinctive features that became synonymous with Hollywood Squares: The most recognizable feature – the grid of squares themselves – became a hallmark of the show's identity, thanks in part to Krause's clever incorporation of them into the overall set design. He managed to balance functionality with visual appeal, making the set as memorable as the celebrities who filled the squares. The evolution of the Hollywood Squares set is a testament to Krause's ability to adapt his game show set design to the evolving tastes of viewers, while maintaining the show's unique personality.

Krause's Design Principles and Their Influence on Game Show Aesthetics

Krause's design philosophy wasn't explicitly documented, but analyzing his work on Hollywood Squares reveals certain guiding principles. His approach to game show design emphasized:

• Bright and bold color palettes: Krause wasn't afraid to use vibrant colors to create a visually exciting atmosphere. This became a key element of Hollywood Squares' distinctive style, influencing subsequent game show set designs.

• Clear visual hierarchy: The set was designed to guide the viewer's eye, naturally highlighting the key elements of the game, such as the contestants and the central game board. This is a crucial aspect of effective television production design.

• Integration of branding: Krause seamlessly integrated the Hollywood Squares branding into the set design, making it an integral part of the overall visual experience.

• Examples of Krause’s design principles evident in the Hollywood Squares set: The contrasting colors of the squares against the backdrop, the strategic placement of lighting to highlight key areas, and the overall clean lines of the set all showcase Krause's design principles at work.

• Comparison of Hollywood Squares set design with other contemporary game shows: Compared to other game shows of its era, Hollywood Squares stood out for its bold and playful aesthetic, setting a new standard for game show set design.

• Identification of enduring design elements that still influence game show sets today: The use of vibrant colors, clear lines of sight, and effective branding remain influential elements in modern game show set design, showcasing the enduring impact of Krause’s work. His contribution to game show design trends is undeniable.

Beyond Hollywood Squares: Krause's Broader Contributions to Set Design

While Hollywood Squares remains his most recognizable project, it's important to note that E. Jay Krause's career encompassed a broader range of television set design. Further research may uncover other projects he worked on, offering a more complete picture of his contributions to the field of television production design and his impact on television set designer techniques. Unfortunately, readily available information on other projects is currently limited.

Conclusion: Celebrating the Enduring Legacy of E. Jay Krause in Hollywood Squares Set Design

E. Jay Krause's impact on the iconic Hollywood Squares set is undeniable. His creative vision, evident in the show's bold colors, dynamic layouts, and playful use of space, contributed significantly to its enduring appeal. His work serves as a reminder of the crucial role of set design in shaping the overall viewing experience. He demonstrated the importance of a cohesive and effective television set design to the success of any television production. Krause's contributions to game show design trends and television set design continue to inspire.

Learn more about the fascinating world of television set design and the unsung heroes like E. Jay Krause who shape our viewing experience. Explore the history of Hollywood Squares and its remarkable set design evolution, and appreciate the artistry behind the shows we love.