The GRAY TV Studios in Augusta, Georgia is a 30,000 sf facility dedicated to the production of local news programs WRDW and WAGT. This fast-paced project includes two 2,400 sf live rooms that require clear sightlines to the large central news room. Kirkegaard assisted in selecting a glazing system that would preserve sound isolation in the live rooms while maintaining transparency desired by the client.
The control room also posed an interesting isolation challenge with the main rack room directly adjacent, which can reach levels of over 85dB, as well as a glazed wall to the busy newsroom. The design of mechanical systems was considered similarly important to avoid unwanted noise in acoustically sensitive rooms, especially given the proximity of several large rooftop air handling units directly outside one of the live rooms. Through coordination efforts with MEP and interiors teams, Kirkegaard is satisfied that the air distribution design and ceiling/wall assemblies contribute to a nearly silent room ready for production.
Kirkegaard also worked with the interior design team to determine finishes in the live rooms, news room, control room, sound booths, and more, especially taking into account low frequency energy present on site due to a nearby highway.
