SZTV Broadcast Center
Completed by clickspring design
(drafting / documentation team lead)
SZTV (苏州电视台) debuted a new broadcast center that was designed with a special emphasis on structural balance and harmony through the use of dramatic right angles and a twist of the unexpected: bold off-axis lines and virtual set extensions.
The multi-venue space features clearly defined areas such as the primary anchor desk, weather presentation area and interview area, but also takes full advantage of the sprawling space to incorporate a variety of flexible stand up and alternative presentation venues.
Throughout the rest of the space, LED walls are placed strategically to accommodate the needs of a modern broadcast space. The panels go far beyond just being high-tech backgrounds. An expansive LED vista wall hugs the west studio boundary, flanking the main stair and providing panoramic views of Suzhou seen in wide shots.
On the south, meanwhile, a double height wall stretches over 12 feet vertically and over 30 feet wide. In front of this is the main anchor area.
While some programming uses branded graphics in the video wall, the network also uses virtual set extensions that blend faux walls with dimensional logos and the look of a control room beyond.
To further enhance the blending of virtual and real, the set also uses rectangular, backlit panels with a gradient overlay for added texture and depth. The studio also features a Juliet balcony at the mezzanine level with backlit panels that allow it to blend into whatever is being fed to the LED wall below.
Together, all of these scenic elements give the space the flexibility to use the LED walls with branded backgrounds alongside a bustling control room or sprawling cityscape while complementing the hard scenic elements and materials.
