CNN has enhanced its weather reporting with a groundbreaking new virtual set—the “Extreme Weather Center.” Clickspring Design, the creators of the 3D model, explains that CNN’s request emphasized easily adaptable presentation areas focused on realistic weather and climate themes. “CNN asked for an array of easily manipulable presentation areas focused on realistic weather and climate themes,” Clickspring Design stated.
A key objective was to create a spacious virtual environment capable of supporting non-linear coverage while maintaining an open, flexible feel compatible with CNN's production workflow. As Clickspring noted, “The virtual space was designed to resemble a realistic piece of architecture, establishing a sense of place that was rooted in believability as an environment for broadcasting the news.”
The design revolves around a central area serving as the primary weather venue, capable of expanding to double or triple height to accommodate dynamic graphics. Surrounding this central space are smaller areas featuring minimal desks, simple displays, and virtual vitrines showcasing realistic weather conditions. Virtual tracking screens operate similarly to their physical counterparts, moving smoothly across different zones.
Clickspring purposefully avoided opaque walls, instead opting for virtual floor-to-ceiling views of the outdoor environment. This decision strengthens the connection between the natural world and the indoor broadcast space. “Since we wanted the space to feel believable, we kept the ‘screens’ as they would likely be configured in a true, physical set,” Clickspring explained.
Three virtual displays are arranged radially, enabling shooting styles similar to a traditional studio. Clickspring’s team highlighted a unique advantage: “Unlike a physical studio, these virtual cameras don’t take up any floor space, so we can also seamlessly shoot inwards from the outer-perimeter, which is the other area where we sited a screen.”
The overall aesthetic integrates seamlessly with CNN’s existing on-air look, aligning with other sets designed by Clickspring in New York and Atlanta. Studio H in Atlanta also uses augmented reality virtual set extensions. Girraphic collaborated with CNN to implement the models using Unreal Engine 5. CNN added its own large logos after receiving the completed models from Clickspring.
Before the Extreme Weather Center, CNN primarily used a smaller physical studio with video screens and AR capabilities.