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Bio

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One part mentor, two parts manager, and three parts creative.

I began my film career in 1999 and have been designing, art directing, and set decorating consistently since 2010. Over the past 26 years, I’ve had the privilege of learning from exceptional production designers and art directors, honing my craft while working alongside world-renowned directors on both local and international productions.

I’m intuitive and quick to visualize a director’s brief, translating it seamlessly into sets and environments that become the visual storybook for commercials and films alike. I’m known for my down-to-earth, hands-on approach, a natural eye for aesthetics, and a strong ability to manage budgets and build effective systems. I love learning new techniques from the talented people I meet on every project — a reminder that there’s always more to discover.

Commercials

HENNESSY
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POSTFINANCE

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LEGO

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TOTAL ENERGIES

SKY NETFLIX

KIABI

TOTAL ENERGIES

Longform

Long Form Projects

Commercials

Testimonials

Maria is a total joy to work with.

Her amazing team blew me away with their skills, dedication and good humour.

It’s always nerve wracking working with a new team, especially on a technically and creatively demanding job. Maria and her team stepped up to the occasion and surpassed expectations.

I adore them and cannot wait to get to work with them again.

Caroline Story, Production Designer, United Kingdom

Working with Maria Labuschagne as my Set Decorator on the project “Measures of Men", directed by Lars Kraume in Summer and Autumn 2021 in Namibia has been a true pleasure. From the very beginning Maria quickly became one of the strong supportive forces of this challenging project and she and her warmhearted, excellent and talented team contributed to the production design being incredibly successful. Our collaboration turned out to be very enjoyable and fulfilling for all involved and subsequently we all turned out to be kindred spirits, which I believe will definitely lead future projects together. We stay closely in touch, as we have formed a wonderful friendship. Maria! & your team: It has been a really marvelous experience and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Sebastian Soukup, Production Designer, Berlin, April 2022

As someone who works extensively on the road, one of the biggest hurdles is coming into a difficult project with a team you have never worked with and then puling off the impossible forthwith. This can go many ways but with Maria, it was clear instantly which way it was to go. Never have I experienced starting a project and feeling so immediately confident, supported and capable. Maria and her team are incredibly strong and competent filmmakers but more than that they each, lead by Maria, exhibit an unmatched care and consideration that is entirely unique.  It was a true honor to work with Maria and I very much look forward to doing it again soon should I be lucky enough!

Jason Hougaard, Production Designer, Los Angeles 

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