San Fernando Valley Welcomes Sylmar Studios: State-of-the-Art Facility Poised to Boost California Production

Los Angeles, California — A significant new player has entered the Southern California film and television production landscape with the opening of Sylmar Studios. Located in the San Fernando Valley, the state-of-the-art facility spans 230,000 square feet and is designed to meet the demanding needs of modern content creation.

Having commenced operations in January 2025, Sylmar Studios represents a substantial investment in bolstering the region’s capacity to host large-scale entertainment projects. The complex features six soundstages, extensive production offices, and comprehensive support spaces, including dressing rooms, wardrobe areas, and green rooms. A dedicated lighting and grip department further enhances its capabilities. A 600-space parking structure addresses a critical logistical need for productions.

Facility Design and Capabilities

The design of Sylmar Studios emphasizes flexibility and efficiency. The six soundstages are engineered to accommodate a range of projects. The facility is currently equipped to host one large feature film production or, alternatively, up to two concurrent television projects. A key design element is the ability for stages to be interconnected, allowing for the creation of significantly larger filming spaces when required by a production’s scope.

Beyond major features and television series, the studio is actively welcoming a diverse array of productions, including music videos, commercials, band rehearsals, and independent films. This versatility positions Sylmar Studios as a central hub for various segments of the entertainment industry.

Commitment to Security and Sustainability

In an era where digital security and environmental responsibility are paramount, Sylmar Studios has integrated these considerations into its operations. The facility is currently on track to receive the Motion Picture Association’s (MPA) coveted Trusted Partner Network (TPN) certification. This accreditation signifies adherence to rigorous content security best practices, a crucial factor for studios and distributors safeguarding valuable intellectual property.

The studio also operates with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, positioning itself as a “green studio.” This includes the implementation of a “zero waste initiative” aimed at minimizing its ecological footprint. This dedication to sustainable practices has already garnered recognition; Sylmar Studios received a Community Impact Award at the Los Angeles Business Council’s Architectural Awards, acknowledging its positive contribution to the local area and built environment.

Industry Context and Economic Impact

The launch of Sylmar Studios comes at a time when state and local governments are actively working to retain film and television production within their borders. As a member of the California Production Coalition, Sylmar Studios aligns itself with efforts advocating for policies that encourage projects to film in the Golden State, preserving jobs and economic activity.

The presence of a modern, large-scale facility like Sylmar Studios is expected to contribute significantly to the local economy in the San Fernando Valley and the broader Los Angeles area. It provides infrastructure necessary for productions that might otherwise seek locations out of state or even internationally.

Leadership and Future Outlook

The leadership team guiding Sylmar Studios brings deep industry knowledge. Tony Guanci serves as the Chief Executive Officer, overseeing the strategic direction of the enterprise. Day-to-day operations are managed by President and General Manager Patrick Dempsey, an industry veteran with a distinguished career spanning 40 years. Dempsey’s extensive experience is expected to be instrumental in navigating the complexities of studio management and attracting productions.

The studio is not resting on its initial success. Expansion is already firmly in the plans. Two additional soundstages are expected to come online at the Sylmar location in 2026, further increasing the facility’s capacity. Looking beyond California, the company also has plans for the development of two new soundstages in Kentucky, signaling a potential broader geographical growth strategy.

The opening of Sylmar Studios marks a notable addition to Hollywood’s infrastructure, providing a modern, secure, and environmentally conscious option for producers and filmmakers and reinforcing the San Fernando Valley’s role as a vital component of the global entertainment industry.