Ongoing advancements in technology, including the development of artificial intelligence, is having a profound impact on the future of the film and TV sector; changing how and where content is created and consumed.

With an increasing focus on the creation of virtual worlds within digital spaces, is the need to film within physical spaces, be that on set or on location, soon to be a thing of the past? Not anytime soon, but it does raise important questions about how to design studio spaces for the future.

We are slowly seeing the rise of the virtual film stage or ‘The Volume’, as known in the industry. These pared back facilities feature large high-definition LED screens, cameras, and lighting, creating a virtual set or location against which live actors can be filmed. And offer potential solutions to many challenges associated with the design of more traditional film and tv studio environments.

Not only does this new type of studio require significantly less space, but also harbours a number of sustainability benefits too. Waste associated with the creation of physical sets is significantly reduced, as is travel associated with on location filming. These virtual sets are also often housed within temporary structures that can be dismantled and re-erected elsewhere.

Advancements in technology is also having an impact on the way we consume content, bringing with it the rise of streaming services that enables us to access endless content on demand. Despite this, statistics released by cinema advertising agency, Pearl & Dean, show a 6% percent increase to over 135 million cinema admissions across the UK and Ireland in 2023, proving that the cinema is here to stay too. However, the way we design these spaces must also change to facilitate more immersive experiences such as IMAX, 3D, UHD and Dolby Atmos.

While there’s no denying that the virtual world is becoming an increasingly prominent feature in modern society, it is human nature to seek out shared experiences. Embracing advances in technology is likely to create a whole host of new ways in which we make, and collectively and individually consume content, though must be used for the benefit of those working in the industry. Architects have a big part to play in designing flexible, adaptable, and sustainable physical and virtual environments to cope with this increasing and exciting rate of change.