Multi-platinum gospel artist Kirk Franklin has transformed a vacant furniture warehouse into a $2 million, state-of-the-art recording studio unlike any in USA today.
Named Fo Yo Soul Entertainment, it is the first recording studio in America known to feature prototype technology that can change how large the space sounds, making it seem as intimate as a jazz club or as spacious as a cathedral, with a few simple taps on a computer screen.
Kirk Franklin’s recording studio has been designed by the Russ Berger Design Group, a North Texas firm whose experience includes projects for the University of Texas Dallas, Lakewood Church and NFL Films.
The Singer revealed during an interview with Arlington Museum of Art on Monday that the 9,000-square-foot warehouse structure, originally built in 1968, was extensively remodeled with specialized construction techniques designed to block outside noise and vibrations from downtown traffic and the nearby train tracks.
Transforming the furniture warehouse into a state-of-the-art studio required creative engineering, Arlington Museum of Art remarks, especially since the building is close to a busy rail line.
The studio also features a prototype electronic architecture system typically found in much larger venues to correct or enhance acoustics, Russ Berger, president of the Russ Berger Design Firm told Arlington Museum of Art.
“Kirk had a vision to create a real gem in the arts district,” Berger said. “He made a significant commitment to the City of Arlington, his hometown, to locate his business and the studio there. He could have put the studio anywhere but he was determined to support the downtown development, right in the heart of the community to show his support.”
Franklin, who has won 12 Grammy awards, is expected to begin recording a new project at the studio soon, Ron Hill, president of Fo Yo Soul Entertainment, is quoted as saying.
Some of the new studio’s recent clients include gospel recording artists Tasha Page-Lockhart and Marvin Sapp, Hill added.
“Fo Yo Soul Entertainment would like to thank Alan Petsche and The Petsche Group for making this dream become a reality,” Franklin said.
By Paul Deniss.
