Pat Gerstle: Could you start by telling me about your background and how you've arrived at designing this unique studio space?
Russell Pyle: I'm a media producer with a diverse portfolio that spans theatre, film, television, special events, theme parks, opera, dance, museums, and fashion shows. My background in math and physics has always influenced my approach to design, creating what many describe as an adventurous and technically complex aesthetic. I've designed sets and lighting for over 350 productions across California, New York, Florida, and internationally, including projects in Singapore, Turkey, and Japan.
Gerstle: That's quite an impressive journey. What led you to develop this particular studio?
Pyle: The studio was conceived with a dual function:It needed to serve both as a production space for a talk show and as a screening room. This required carefully balancing functional requirements with aesthetic sophistication. For instance, we designed the room with specific seating considerations. I built a custom platform for the back row of a sectional couch, ensuring everyone would have a clear line of sight.
Gerstle: Tell me about the technical aspects of the space.
Pyle: Acoustics were critical. I placed sound absorbers strategically throughout the room. We have two types of absorbers—one set consists of three panels with bright, colorful designs which my partner, Marion MacKenzie chose, and another on the north wall features wood strips over acoustic foam covered with black felt. For the screening room, I incorporated sound diffusers to enhance acoustic quality.
Gerstle: How did you approach the visual design?
Pyle: For the talk show studio, every on-camera angle had to be visually interesting. I carefully selected elements like TV monitors and light sconces as key visual points of interest. Marion was also particularly passionate about an organic white stone wainscoting, which adds beautiful texture to the space. The studio's primary materials are wood, carpet, and stone, with beautiful green trees visible through the window, creating a warm, sophisticated atmosphere.
Gerstle: Can you elaborate on the lighting design?
Pyle: Lighting was designed in precise zones to accommodate different uses of the room. I added track lights on the back wall to separately illuminate the acoustic absorbers. The room features dimmable sconce lighting, an uplight for the corner plant, and strategic illumination for different elements. I also used a string of miniature LED lights to highlight the stone wainscoting, creating additional visual depth.
Gerstle: What's the primary purpose of this studio?
Pyle: The first production, Inside Focus, hosted by Marion, promises to be a captivating TV talk show that delves into thought-provoking topics. From the worlds of media and entertainment to the intersection of faith and politics, the series will also explore holistic and inner healing, spiritual transformation, and keys to business leadership and growth. Each episode aims to inspire, challenge, and equip viewers with insights that spark meaningful conversations and lasting impact.
Gerstle: This sounds like it draws from your extensive professional experience.
Pyle: Indeed. Beyond this studio, I've been fortunate to work on many remarkable projects. I'm the co-founder and CEO of our media production company—Highlander Studios—and we've won Telly Awards for our MentalHealth Initiative web series. I've designed an 8-storyline LED video wall that was 22 feet wide and 12 feet high for an international client, and I've handled complex production demands for live events like the 3-day Christian Women in Media conference.
Gerstle: What drives your creativity outside of work?
Pyle: I'm an amateur chef who loves entertaining and building community through food. I'm also a wood and stained-glass sculptor, an avid reader, and a film and theatre enthusiast. I enjoy hiking, traveling, and exploring different cultures and cuisines. Health and fitness are important to me. I strive to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Gerstle: Any final thoughts about this studio space?
Pyle: Every element needed to serve a purpose while contributing to the room's overall sophisticated feel. From the carefully placed lighting to the strategic acoustic treatments, each decision was made to support both the studio's technical requirements and its visual appeal. It's a space that reflects both scientific precision and artistic vision.
The interview captures Pyle’s multifaceted approach to design, showcasing how his background in science, art, and media production culminated in this unique, thoughtfully crafted studio space. To contact Pyle, reach him at HighlanderStudios.org.
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