WRTV Unveils New Set By FX Design Group

WRTV, the Scripps-owned ABC affiliate in Indianapolis (DMA 27), debuted a new set, complete with wide video walls, multiple monitors and color-changing LED’s for peak flexibility. It was designed, installed and lit by FX Design Group of Ocoee, Fla.    

At the forefront is a modern weather center that showcases WRTV’s StormTeam 6. A giant monitor weather presentation area dominates the weather center, but this area is also a multi-purpose stage to be used in any storytelling situation. Four weather systems, a standing desk for severe storm tracking and a large green screen, give the weather team varied options to keep viewers informed about the rough Midwest weather that Indianapolis provides.

“With the new set we have a versatile work space that allows us to come up with creative ways to showcase our stories,” said WRTV News Director Terri Cope-Walton. “The addition of the lighting changes enhances our viewers’ experience by giving them a visual cue when we have breaking news.”

The set itself combines modern technology with contemporary design. Light boxes with color-changing LED’s take the place of all old duratrans. Gloss white is the focal point color, accented with rich blues.

The WRTV team didn’t want the traditional brick and stone that is often used and instead wanted something more versatile and adaptable to all breaking news, investigative special reports, and storytelling needs. No duras. No fake skylines. No brick. WRTV continues to roll out programming that needs special showcasing, such as The Now that debuted April 20, weekdays at 4 p.m.

“The team at WRTV was very clear that this set should be able to transform into many different multipurpose areas, with changing camera angles and colors,” said Bonnie Barclay, VP of marketing at FX Design Group. “We caught their vision and created a crazy-flexible set that a talented team can morph into many different needs.”

FX Design Group also did the lighting design to showcase not only the talent but the set as well, no matter which shot is served up.

“This was really an amazing set experience,” said Seth Keever, WRTV director of production. “FX is not only a great design firm, but they handled every obstacle thrown their way and focused on finding solutions.”