ITV's coverage of the World Cup is being broadcast from a striking rooftop studio in Brooklyn, New York, offering viewers breathtaking panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. The location, atop the former Jehovah's Witnesses headquarters at the Columbia Heights Watchtower complex, has been a central element of the network's presentation of the tournament.
The studio's design and location were the culmination of nearly two years of planning. ITV Sport began scouting for a New York base approximately 18 months before the tournament, which is being co-hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Panorama Brooklyn Studios was the first site viewed and was quickly identified as the ideal setting.
Design and Production
The studio aims to capture the industrial character of Brooklyn, blending a physical set with advanced virtual production techniques. This approach creates a 360-degree interior that integrates real-time video graphics, enhancing the loft-like atmosphere. The set includes elements like Maradona posters and a vintage camper van, nodding to the World Cup's opening credits. Pundits such as Roy Keane and Ian Wright provide analysis against the backdrop of the iconic New York skyline.
A three-meter platform was constructed to elevate the entire studio structure, ensuring that the city's landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty and One World Trade Center, would not obscure the presenters. This elevation was critical for achieving the desired visual composition for viewers in the UK.
Contingency Planning and Weather Considerations
Given New York's unpredictable climate, ITV has implemented contingency plans. The rooftop studio is equipped with air conditioning to manage high temperatures. In instances of extreme weather, such as strong winds that previously forced the broadcast indoors, a smaller, indoor studio serves as a backup. This indoor space, typically used as a green room, was utilized when wind conditions made the rooftop untenable for broadcasting.
The studio's construction, including the elevated platform, took approximately five to six weeks, utilizing local American contractors. This effort was necessary to create a visually appealing and functional broadcast environment that transports viewers to New York City.