Kaufman Astoria Studios first opened in 1921, and has long been a centerpiece of New York City’s media industry. The Astoria-based complex is no longer relying on its historical footprint, having recently become the first studio in the Five Boroughs to gain a backlot for filming. A backlot is a space containing permanent exterior sets. The latest addition to the campus will be a newly built four-story office building at 34-11 36th Street, Queens, that will include two new stages, which YIMBY can now reveal. The studio’s Astoria on Stage LLC is behind the applications.

The 84-foot tall structure will yield over 100,000 square feet within, including 68,000 square feet of office space. The building will feature 14-foot high ceilings, seven balconies, and wraparound windows. 138 parking spaces will be included on site.

As of now, the studio’s footprint covers over 500,000 square feet, housing nine stages, a lighting and grip company, music recording space, and a full-service restaurant. Business for the studio has been improving since tax incentives from the state in 2004 stimulated film and TV production.

Gluck + Architecture will be responsible for the design.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the development occurred in February of 2017. An estimated completion date has not been announced.

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