Harbor Grand
Building the Largest Dolby Atmos and IMAX Mix Stage in New York City
Finding the
Right Space
In 2016, CEO Zak Tucker and Chief Engineer Avi Laniado embarked on a mission to create the largest premier mix stage in New York City. Their first challenge was locating a suitable space in downtown Manhattan, one large enough to accommodate their vision. Then, just off Grand Street and 6th Avenue, the pair found a ground-floor location with the precise dimensions required for Avi’s ambitious plan: to establish the largest Dolby Atmos and IMAX-capable mix stage on the East Coast.
Securing Silence
in New York
The foremost challenge, as is often the case in New York, was noise. The bustling street outside and the subway rumbling beneath posed significant acoustic hurdles; they needed the highest level of noise cancellation. This entailed pouring and floating a concrete slab four inches off the ground using specialized springs. The same process was replicated for the walls and ceiling using sheet rock. "The whole theater is a floating box," Laniado explains. Dolby engineers meticulously oversaw the design and construction to ensure full compatibility with an Atmos setup.
Ensuring Compatibility with
Industry Standards
With the concrete and sheet rock in place, Laniado brought in acousticians to fine-tune the acoustics, achieving the perfect balance of reverb with a combination of hard and soft panels. Avi also ensured that the projector would accurately represent picture as seen in Harbor’s grading theaters.
Finishing Touches
Next, the team installed theater seating, mix consoles, and a screen crafted with advanced woven technology. The space was an exact fit for Avi’s envisioned theater, leaving no room for the machine and projection rooms. After negotiating with the building, the machine room was placed in the basement, and part of the stairwell was converted for the projection room. Avi’s unwavering commitment ensured every inch of the space was utilized to its full potential.
Lighting was another critical aspect. The team collaborated with Ketra to create various lighting scenes, enhancing the theater’s functionality and ambiance.
Adapting the Space
for VIP Experience
Beyond the theater, the team carved out two 5.1 sound editorial suites upstairs, and a lobby area for clients. Creating a secure and private space but still close to Harbor’s other studios was paramount, allowing high-profile clients to work on their projects without interruptions.
Grand in Action
Today, Harbor Grand stands as a testament to their vision, hosting numerous award-winning projects under the guidance of renowned re-recording mixers. Screenings, panels, premieres, and parties have all found a home in this remarkable theater, serving projects both large and small.
