NBC News has debuted Studio N7, a state-of-the-art broadcasting space within its Washington, D.C. headquarters. This launch is part of a broader initiative linked to the forthcoming separation of MSNBC and CNBC into the Versant entity.
Situated next to the seventh-floor newsroom, Studio N7 first appeared on the August 3, 2025, broadcast of NBC’s “Meet the Press” and also featured in the August 4, 2025, episode of MSNBC’s “The Weeknight.” Its modular design allows for adaptability. The studio is slated to become the permanent home of “Hallie Jackson Now” and “Meet the Press Now,” both produced for NBC News Now.
The construction of Studio N7 is directly tied to the impending division of MSNBC and other NBCUniversal cable channels into Versant. This restructuring will result in distinct production and newsroom facilities. Sources indicate that post-split, NBC News will utilize the first and seventh floors (Studios N1 and N7), while MSNBC will occupy the eighth floor (Studios N4 and N5) along with a new newsroom. “Meet the Press” is anticipated to return to Studio N1.
The reason for the temporary relocation of “Meet the Press” and “The Weeknight” to Studio N7 in early August 2025 remains unclear; it may be due to ongoing renovations elsewhere or a trial run of the new studio. NBC News has long occupied parts of the North Capitol building, which also houses other broadcasters. In 2021, NBC relocated its D.C. bureau from its shared space with WRC to North Capitol, acquiring Studio N1 and expanding to upper floors.
Studio N7’s design, by Bryan Higgason and HD Studio, cleverly incorporates elements from other studios in the building, especially N1. The striking Capitol views are showcased through real windows with dramatic archways, complemented by gold-toned panels and color-changing lighting. The studio is equipped with Ross Video’s Artimo robotic camera system and is adaptable for various production styles including live newscasts, podcasts, interviews, and special coverage. It features a circular roundtable with ample lighting.
Niel Galen of The Lighting Design Group handled the LED lighting, ensuring optimal color temperature adjustment. Similar to Studio N1, Studio N7 provides visual connectivity between the studio and newsroom via a window and glass doors, offering viewers a glimpse of the newsroom monitor wall.
The impressive Capitol dome view, shared with Studios N4 and N5 (soon to be exclusive to MSNBC and CNBC), is a defining feature. The studio's versatility and technological capabilities position it as a key asset for NBC News' future productions.