The Client: The New York Times / NYTCooking

The Project: I was brought on as the lead space consultant on a multi-million dollar build-out integral to growth opportunities for a rapidly expanding desk within the New Project Ventures division. It is the first (and only) in-house photography studio for the Times. It supports both still and video shoots, with multiple sets, and is functional both as a daylight studio and soundstage. After the studio was built, the Times brought me back on to help make it operational and efficient, as well as welcoming, a space that sets NYT Cooking apart.

The Results: Initially, I spent six months working with the team, helping identify their needs, strategizing solutions, and building budgets. I was an integral part of helping drive forward a project that was struggling to find the air it needed. I drew on my experience as a photographer to define the aesthetics, lighting, and space needs, but also drew on my experience as a restauranteur to understand the nuts and bolts of what would be needed from an operational standpoint, with an eye towards potential DOB issues. I worked with the in-house team to advocate for more funding and a larger space that would support their long term needs. I location scouted and liased with commercial brokers, and acted as the first set of eyes on any prospective space. In this role, I helped to translate and fill very specific asks, and advise in lease negotiations. I also advised on build-out, including details such as electrical schematics and broad stroke design. In the end, the team got a beautiful space that more than suited their unique needs.

After the construction was finished, I was asked to come back to help the Cooking team get the studio up and running. I immediately identified areas of improvement, filled in gaps, and created operational documents to set the standard for management moving forward. I worked on styling the space, and rounding out the props collection, creating a warm and welcoming environment that supports both still photography, video shoots, and events for the New York Times at large. I consulted on production needs and assisted with budget and day to day operations to support the space and what is a very critical component of NYT Cooking’s overall success.

These days I continue to freelance with the team and still wear a few hats. I am the special projects manager and deeply involved in any high production events in the space, including producing any parties for the Times, from menu planning to actually cooking the food for events. I have credit as a food stylist, and mostly, I contribute as a photographer; a true dream in the space I helped bring to life.

Why Me: I have the unique perspective of both working in commercial photography and running commercial kitchens. Additionally, my experience with Mighty Balls gave me the background to understand commercial builds and leases. I have always felt so lucky to work on this project combining my very unique experience and skillsets. I was able to draw on my years as a photographer, but also, as a restaurant owner.

Core Capabilities: Space Design, Build-out, Commercial Lease Negotiation, Budgeting & Projections, Location Scouting, Photography

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