NON-PROFIT

Austin Film Studios

Broaddus & Associates was retained as the owner’s representative to the Austin Film Society (AFS) for the construction and renovation of the Austin Studios in Austin, Texas. Built on a 20-acre section of the former local airport, the facility features more than 100,000 SF of wireless production space in five former aircraft hangars, as well as a screening room, two production offices, and the largest cyclorama (“cyc”) wall in the state of Texas. Through Austin Studios, the AFS attracts film development and production to Texas with more than 40 feature movies to its credit, plus hosts dozens of commercials, music videos, industrial films, and still shoots.

Broaddus & Associates’ experienced project management team provided savings in project management fees normally associated with a project of this kind. Our firm negotiated special, innovative agreements with Austin Energy and with the Water Utility Department, identifying unique methods to offset the cost of new utilities. Broaddus & Associates renegotiated lease terms with three stakeholders, addressed challenging environmental obstacles, and addressed code compliance upgrades (including structural, fire protection, utility, electrical, security, and ADA requirements). The special requirements of a film studio also required expertise in acoustic and lighting systems that our team was able to provide.

Throughout the project, Broaddus & Associates focused on the interdependent relationship among a project’s scope, budget, and schedule. The implementation of a Program Definition Rating Index (PDRI) and pricing exercises ensured the budget remained on track. Our project manager created a prioritized scope list that allowed items to be added in as money was saved in other areas. This allowed us to sort between items required to meet building codes and items needed to improve the facility.

The Broaddus & Associates senior team created communications procedures and a budgeting process to expedite funding disbursements that allowed our client to complete the project without the added costs of interim financing or additional loans. To meet the sustainability goals for the project, our firm employed the City of Austin’s Green Building Program to achieve a two-star rating, which was especially impressive given the nature of this adaptive reuse project.