Studio A Building: ‘No Longer Economically Viable’

Bravo Development has shared with the media reports from engineers and building inspectors regarding the property at 30 Music Sq. W. which it recently purchased for more than $4 milllion from a group that includes members of the Bradley family, who established the property’s first recording studio.

30 Music Sq. W. currently houses Ben Folds’ Grand Victor Sound studio (formerly known as RCA Studio A), as well as other offices.

While the new documents, including an open letter from Bravo’s Tim Reynolds, do not explicitly state that the building will be demolished, it is likely that a wrecking ball is headed for the site. The letter states: “the building is no longer economically viable ‘as it is.'” According to the other reports, the property does not meet building codes, has numerous HVAC and electrical problems, water damage, is structurally unsound, and doesn’t meet requirements for the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Bravo has approached various cultural institutions about their interest in helping salvage the few elements of Studio A that are under its ownership.

Folds fought to preserve the space on the grounds that it was home to numerous landmark recordings, and rallied many supporters for the cause. Following the sale, the musician and his studio are vacating the space.

Previously, Reynolds told MusicRow that he would withdraw from the project if saving the studio was not an option.

Ultimately, the debate brought to the forefront the important question of how to best balance the rights of property owners while protecting property with historical significance.

Click below to view the reports.

Field inspection report

Open letter from Tim Reynolds

Engineering report