When the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) decided to build its new headquarters on a high-traffic corner of Washington DC’s South Capitol Street, the premier trade association seized the opportunity to make a strong statement about the key role of television, radio and new media in the 21st Century. Supporting its mission of advocacy, education and innovation, NAB integrated more than 200 displays in nearly every space to bring the history and future of the industry to life.
According to NAB Vice President Michael Tow, the new location was chosen to “plant the flag” for heightened visibility of the broadcast industry among policymakers, members and other stakeholders. Diversified and audio visual consultant Miller, Beam and Paganelli, were engaged to help NAB to create an HQ that Tow said truly “wows.” “I think NAB and this project showcases the fact that the technology and the architecture can be married together. That you can have a space that embraces the technology and make it look like it’s a part of the building,” added John Paganelli, principal, Miller, Beam & Paganelli.
After stepping out of the elevator into the 10th floor lobby, guests and colleagues are greeted by technology they likely have never seen before: a transparent LG OLED video wall that allows viewers to literally see through video messaging and TV content to the extraordinary view of the nation’s capital. “It’s really impactful, it creates a statement and a good environment for guests to visit,” noted Michael Burnstein, Northeast Vice President, Diversified.
NAB occupies six floors in total. Nearly every area and room has been updated with LG digital displays and video walls. The technology at NAB’s new headquarters is leaps and bounds beyond what was used for decades at its previous building and far ahead of other trade associations in town. “Being the Nation’s premiere association for broadcasters, we wanted to be sure that we were showcasing new technologies in the marketplace,” said Michelle Lehman, Chief of Staff, NAB. Even more importantly, it aids the organization in their mission to connect with district citizenry and meaningfully affect broadcasting legislation for years to come.
