One of the annual highlights of the television sporting calendar is BBC Sports Personality of The Year.
The programme represents the opportunity to reflect on the year's highs and lows, with viewers voting to decide who wins the top award, which is regarded as a genuine accolade.
Seen in that context, the design of the set - which we have undertaken every year since 2003 - is a particular challenge.
Essentially, it has to deliver atmosphere, support a dramatic experience and fulfil all the practical requirements for audience interaction, guest interviews and multiple camera angles.
Lighting, projections and graphics as well as the set itself evolve each year to bring a fresh perspective to successive events.
In the heat of the moment, award-winners are inclined to thank family, fans, friends, their children, colleagues, God and everyone else who knows them.
It's rare for an acceptance speech to refer to set design. However, Sir Steve Redgrave paid a spontaneous tribute to the set of the 50th BBC Sports Personality of The Year in 2003.
‘I must say to the BBC, I think this set is fantastic. I think one of the honours that should go with this trophy is a seat in the corner for next year.'
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