The first part of this update centered around safely and securely installing the show’s new 103-inch plasma screen. “Weighing in at about 500 pounds, this was no small feat,” recalls Tom Ryan, Chicago Scenic’s Design Manager.  

The Chicago Scenic team built an I-beam “goal post” structure that they bolted to the set and the floor, safely securing the screen in an already existing opening. Since the screen was smaller than the existing opening, however, Ryan’s design accommodated the extra space.

Ryan designed a Plexiglas and LED system panel that adds color and visual interest to the set. The system plugs into the Studio’s control board, so it’s also easy and effortless to update the set’s look by changing the LED colors and light patterns, matching or contrasting show graphics.

While CSSI was finishing this phase of the Studio update, a new Big 10 Network Director, Mark Halsey, joined the staff and was interested in implementing additional Studio changes.

At Ryan’s suggestion, CSSI added light boxes and hinged frames to hold a variety of ever-changing graphics behind pegged off frosted plexi surrounds to each side of the main anchor desk, bringing additional light and color to the set and providing another option for making quick set changes. “By designing the panels the way we did,” Ryan said, “the Studio staff can switch out graphics during a commercial break, providing an instant update to the show in a matter of minutes.”

The Studio crew also wanted to be able to widen their camera shots but an existing door and column at the back of the set were problematic. Chicago Scenic suggested lengthening a back studio wall by adding a four-foot “wild wall”, hinged like a giant door. This solution enables the wider, longer camera angle and still provides accessibility to the studio.

 The third Studio update included reimagining the set’s side anchor desk in front of the new 103-inch monitor. To create a more informal broadcast environment and meet the variety of formats required by the many different shows using this area, Chicago Scenic designed a “coffee table” to replace the standard Studio anchor desk.  The Network wanted the “coffee table” to be used in a low look with talent or guests seated in club chairs, and also in a taller look, with talent standing or seated on high stools.

Outfitted with embedded TV monitors and a front panel light box, the contemporary look of the coffee table met the set’s practical needs and created a strong focal point.