WSDG Completes Flagship AV Production Studios For Alibaba

Alibaba's Hujing Digital Media & Entertainment Group Studios has opened a state-of-the-art AV production facility at the company's Beijing headquarters.

The complex was designed in partnership with globally renowned acoustic and AV technology consulting firm WSDG.

The new complex, which serves as the creative engine behind Alibaba’s cultural and entertainment offerings (including YOUKU and Damai Entertainment Group), features four specialised control rooms, a large live room, and multiple isolation booths.

WSDG was tasked with the full design and systems package, including acoustic design, technical interior design, and master planning. The design goal was to create a facility that matches the scale and ambition of Alibaba's operations, prioritising high-quality acoustical control while fostering a bright, artistic atmosphere with abundant natural lighting.

The facility's architecture provides a one-stop, full-chain service for film and television audio post-production. Silvia Molho, Partner and Art Director at WSDG, noted that the design combined Alibaba’s vision for minimalist spaces with complex technical demands. The curved ceilings and flowing soffits were precisely shaped to enhance acoustic and visual performance, with lighting used strategically to emphasise structure.

Each of the four control rooms serves a specialised purpose:
• Control Room A (65m²): Serves as the music production hub. It features an AMS Neve Genesys Black G4 Console and is configured for 9.1.6 Dolby Atmos production using ATC SCM300ASL Pro and Amphion monitoring. The aesthetic is clean and minimalist with light wood details.
• Control Room B (30m²): Designated for ADR vocal recording. It includes a Kali Dolby Atmos Monitor System configured for 7.1.4, featuring a clean white, futuristic aesthetic.
• Control Room C: A larger immersive mixing room featuring an Avid/CB Electronics Mix Controller and a Genelec 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos Monitoring System. This room adopts a darker aesthetic.
• Control Room D: Also configured as an immersive mix room, featuring a Kali 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos Monitoring System.

Víctor Cañellas, WSDG China Senior Representative, praised the successful collaboration, stating the world-class studio stands as a testament to the passionate commitment of the multiple talented teams involved, including the construction team who worked meticulously to uphold WSDG’s acoustic tolerances and aesthetic standards.

The completed facility was recognised as a 2026 NAMM TEC Awards Studio Design Project Finalist.

www.wsdg.com