Client Case Study: Big Sky Studios, Winnipeg

Move over Hollywood and Toronto (known as Hollywood North), the next big movie and television production centre could be Winnipeg, Manitoba. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Prairies, a new full-service motion picture production centre is finishing its second phase of construction – two 15,000 square foot purpose-built clear-span sound stages with 40’ height clearances.

The new additions, built by Double Black Construction, will create enough creative space for creative film, television and multimedia projects to be produced and broadcast across North America. The facility allows a generation of talented artists across Western Canada to film works and create a community that will drive Canada’s arts forward throughout the next century.

John Lohan and Double Black Construction were chosen for their extensive experience working in the pre-engineered metal building and construction industries to bring the studio’s vision to life. The company offers total turnkey projects, design-build, construction management and general contracting services. Double Black Construction can complete all phases of construction with their own forces as well as supervising and co-ordinating a variety of architects, engineers and specialized trades. Lohan and his team take pride in completing quality projects on time and on budget.

• Two Soundproof Production Sound Stages (17,000 sq-ft and 12,800 sq-ft) - 20’ H
• Mill and Paint Shop (14,000 sq-ft)
• Flex, Set Dec / Props / Storage (10,000 sq-ft)
• Wardrobe with Dye and Laundry (10,100 sq-ft)
• Production and Executive Offices (15,000 sq-ft)
• Indoor Atrium with Park-Like Setting, Skylights and Kitchen / Commissary / Dining Areas
• 32,000sq-ft for Long-Term Tenant Office and related businesses such as production satellite offices, post-production, animation, VFX, etc.
• 50-seat Common Use Presentation Theatre with Multi-Media Crestron Technology (1,500 sq-ft)
• Two new purpose-built clear span sound stages with 40’ height clearance (2x - 15,000 sq-ft)

Innovative recording technology and high-speed internet have completely revolutionized the film production landscape. Talented individuals can now create YouTube videos and movies with equipment that fits into a small suitcase or even their pocket. At some point in their evolution as a creator, their vision and capabilities need to progress to a facility that can push their work to a much larger and more commercial level. That’s where working in a dedicated production studio, surrounded by professionals in sound engineering, lighting, special effects, editing and advanced cameras makes all the difference.

Learn more about Double Black Construction by contacting us today for a free quote online, speak with us at (833) 322-2722 or reach Double Black Construction by email and we’ll provide you with a free consultation, quote and preliminary drawings.

John Lohan has over 15 years of experience designing, engineering and installing over 500 metal buildings for architects and clients across North America and the globe. He’s managed all aspects of steel building construction, including material logistics and managing local and foreign construction teams. John also has special expertise in concrete foundation and excavation. He can be contacted at Double Black Construction at (833) 322-2722, by email at john@DoubleBlackConstruction.com or on LinkedIn.