MAGIC Spell Studios

Rochester Institute of Technology is poised to revolutionize digital media education with the innovative MAGIC Spell Studios, a first-of-its-kind higher education facility designed to converge computer gaming, film, animation, and digital media education under one roof with an emphasis on student entrepreneurship and commercialization.

SWBR designed this new state-of-the-art facility, including a 7,000 SF sound stage, a movie theater with 4K laser projection system and Dolby ATMOS sound system, and three media development laboratories that provide students a hands-on, high-tech environment from which they can launch their own companies in Rochester, fueling an industry that has taken hold locally with entrepreneurial ventures.

MAGIC Spell Studios, a LEED Silver Certified design, opened in Fall of 2018 and is the first of its kind in the Northeast. “MAGIC Spell Studios will be a wonderful resource for our students and also will serve as an economic engine for the Finger Lakes region and New York State,” said RIT President David Munson. “The programs, labs and studios in MAGIC Spell will help build and retain a vibrant workforce and send exciting products into the marketplace.”

Details

  • Size48,000 SF
  • Cost 15M
  • Completion 2018
  • LEED LEED Silver Certified

Awards

ASID New York Upstate/Canada East Chapter 2019 Professional Design Award - Large Commercial Category NAIOP Best Community Development Award Rochester Chapter AIA Merit Award