A remodel of an existing 1930’s masonry and wood frame film production studio, including a relocated entry, new lobby, new offices for director and production staff, improved circulation, and upgraded facilities for casting, wardrobe, and editing. Because of major time and cost constraints, it was decided early in the process to put eighty percent of the budget in twenty percent of the program. The new lobby and entry became the nucleus of the project; with a simple, straight-forward treatment of the remaining program.
The compression of the entry gives way to the airy but narrow double-height space of the lobby, bare but for a stair and elevated walkway. Spare lines and a minimal palette highlight their bold geometry. The custom concrete stair, made of eco-friendly Syndecrete, explores the patterns created by interlocking structural elements as it spirals upwards to the sinuous catwalk. Made of perforated metal, the bridge appears to float weightlessly in the airy double-height space, gently filtering the light pouring in from the continuous skylight above. The space is a study in contrasts, playing with texture and shape to create a restrained and sophisticated drama.
“Used by actors and models who come to the building for casting, the sweep of the stair and the flow of the bridge contribute to putting the best foot forward.” (Thomas Fisher, Progressive Architecture)
Project Team
Pugh + Scarpa Architects (architect)
Syndesis, Inc. (custom concrete stair)
Ernst and Dubey, Inc. (general contractor)
Marvin Rand (photography)
