The Universal Studios Lot is one of the most iconic properties in the entertainment industry and has long been a beacon of imagination and a symbol of dreams being fulfilled for creatives all around the world.
Since its grand opening in 1915, the lot has undergone many transformations to maintain its status as the epicenter for creativity and talent. Thanks to the support of Comcast CEO Brian Roberts and in collaboration with the NBCUniversal Global Real Estate team, the legacy endures as two new buildings, The Commons and the One Universal office building, are now open. Employees and clients can now enjoy brand new entry gates, a pedestrian friendly Paseo, 4,500 sq. ft. Event Center with theaters, green space, and much more as Universal sought new ways to provide a comfortable and friendly working atmosphere.
“It is a very exciting time to be on the Universal Studios Lot and at Studio Operations,” said Jeff Stone, President of Studio Operations. “In creating these spaces, we wanted to provide welcoming, creative, and collaborative environment coupled with the tools and technology for our employees, clients, and talent to work wherever they need to.”
This latest expansion continues the investment in the Studio over the last decade, which has included the addition of 14 new soundstages, a new state-of-the-art feature sound mixing facility, the Hitchcock Mixing Stage, and major remodels of existing office buildings, delivering a space that both engages and inspires creative professionals.
Outside of the lot’s expansion, Universal continues to grow in other avenues to increase their footprint. They have recently ramped up investments in production facilities and services across the US and UK, having opened production hubs in New York, Atlanta, Albuquerque, Chicago, and London. Assembly Studios in Atlanta is the newest of thes facilities, a 22 sound stage studio lot that opened this year with on-site production services such as Set Lighting & Grip, Transportation, Costume, a Sign & Fabrication Shop, and commissary.
When it comes to post-production, StudioPost at Universal Studios offers world-class services, both on the lot and remotely. Specializing in sound, picture, and Avid workflows, the StudioPost team works closely with clients to craft the most efficient and secure systems for global collaboration. Their innovative remote mixing and color review services ensure showrunners can make key creative decisions without disrupting their packed schedules.
“StudioPost continues to invest in new and upgraded sound and picture facilities to provide an inviting creative home for clients featuring award-winning creative talent, leading technology, and uncompromising security,” Stone said. “And because of the great team of professionals across all Studio Operations production and post services, we have developed a solutions-oriented reputation which also attracts external productions.”
As technology continues to evolve, it is critical that NBCUniversal remains committed to incorporate developing technology into their studio spaces. Two years ago, Universal built the Virtual Production Stage, a ROE LED volume, that serves as a test lab for filmmakers exploring the latest in virtual technology. Ideal for previsualization, car process shots, and promo shoots, this facility offers a glimpse into the future of filmmaking. Additionally, the NBCUniversal Cineo LED Lighting subsidiary focuses on high-quality lighting products that streamline production processes and increase efficiency, just further proof that Universal continues to invest in technology and advanced workspaces that help creative talent do what they do best: produce great content.
Universal’s Virtual Production Stage
Exterior: Stage 43
Interior: Stage 43
Universal Studios Backlot: New York Street