Owners of Historic Television City Scale Back Plans for $1 Billion+ Upgrade

The owners of Television City have adjusted their expansion plans for the iconic Los Angeles studio, originally aiming to modernize and enlarge it.

Historical Context and Ownership Shift

Television City, formerly owned by CBS, has been a hub for television production since 1952, hosting renowned shows like "All in the Family" and "American Idol." In 2019, Hackman Capital Partners acquired the studio for $750 million, retaining CBS as a tenant.

Revised Expansion Plans

Originally proposed at $1.25 billion, the expansion plan now undergoing updates seeks to respond to community feedback and changing market conditions. The project is expected to conclude by 2028.

Architectural Changes

Foster + Partners, led by architect Norman Foster, has been enlisted to redesign the project, eliminating a 15-story office tower and reducing the number of offices. The new design maintains a low-density suburban appearance while adding over 980,000 square feet of space.

Studio and Office Space

The proposal aims to create 700,000 square feet of production-support offices and 550,000 square feet for rental to media and entertainment firms, capitalizing on high demand for studio-based office space.

Enhanced Facilities and Community Integration

Plans include a new commissary, improved streetscapes, and more space for production base camps. The design emphasizes street-level shops and restaurants to enhance the studio's connection with the surrounding community.

Economic Challenges and Industry Support

The project's revisions come amidst a downturn in filming activity in Los Angeles, exacerbated by strikes and increased production costs. Hackman Capital stresses the importance of supporting the entertainment industry to prevent further decline.

Preservation and Redevelopment

The project aims to preserve historical elements while expanding production facilities, with community input and support from various organizations. Concerns over traffic and disruption have led to adjustments in the plan to mitigate these issues.

Addressing Community Concerns

Efforts to reduce traffic impact include a relocation of the "mobility hub" and limitations on retail space. Hackman Capital emphasizes creating a vibrant streetscape that complements neighboring businesses.

Television City's redevelopment seeks to balance expansion with community integration, acknowledging the studio's historical significance while adapting to modern demands and challenges in the entertainment industry.