CNN, Washington Bureau, Washington, DC
Two Control rooms and Security Desk

Strategy: Shut down and renovate each control room during the weeks of both the Republican and Democratic conventions, allowing for a ten-day turnaround including equipment and system integration. The redesign of the security desk to support a staff of four and nine security monitors was another task. Open sightlines from the new desk were required during evening hours when manned by a single person.

Results: Mission accomplished – control rooms were up and running when the crews returned home. Strategic use of red activates the entrance, reflecting the CNN brand. Glass doors at the rear of the room allow for sightlines into the space during broadcasts without disruption.

The security desk features increased visibility and accommodates more seats and monitors. Backlit glass holds security signing books with a band of blue light and a LED lit bollard illuminates visitors’ faces as they are photographed for badges. Finally, monitors mounted on articulating arms gives control to staff for optimum viewing accommodating the needs of rotating staff.