University of Georgia Renovation for the Master of Fine Arts in Film, Television, and Digital Media Program

Athens, GA

The expansion of the film industry across Georgia means an increasing need for trained staff to fulfill these creative positions. The University of Georgia wanted to lead the way by establishing a Master of Fine Arts in Film, Television, and Digital Media, the first graduate program of its kind in the state. Cooper Carry was tasked with renovating an outdated portion of the Journalism building, turning it into a cutting-edge film production facility and home for the state’s new flagship film program.

During the renovation, our team reconfigured the floor plan and added enough power, data bandwidth, screens, speakers, and acoustical treatments to ensure that all students have facilities suitable to hone their abilities. Spaces for chance encounters, impromptu meetings, and testing different approaches for lighting and filming were also key to develop the variety of the skills these graduates will need to work in the field.

The program works in partnership with mainstream studios in the area. Social and screening events can be held in the large studio, outfitted with 4k video and surround sound, to showcase student work and offer networking opportunities. Inspired by the perspective from a camera lens, the design includes wood cladding and vibrant red carpeting to tie the spaces together and which, combined with a lounge visible from the corridor through full-height glazing, give the program a distinct presence. The facility is now primed to train the next generation of storytellers and makers.