Overview
Kaufman Astoria Studios is a long‑established film and television production complex in the Astoria neighborhood of Queens, New York City. Founded in the early 1920s as a major East Coast motion picture studio, the facility evolved from silent‑era production into a modern, multiuse studio that supports feature films, television series, commercials, music videos and digital media projects.
Origins and early years
The studio was built in the early 20th century by an East Coast studio company and served as a principal production center for filmmakers who wanted to work near New York City. During the silent and early sound eras it hosted a range of stage and location shoots and housed production offices, workshops and dressing rooms tailored to the needs of studio filmmaking at that time.
Decline and restoration
Like many urban production sites, the complex experienced a period of reduced activity as the film industry consolidated in California. In the late 20th century the site underwent substantial rehabilitation and modernization under new investment, restoring historic buildings while upgrading technical infrastructure and creating new soundstages and post‑production facilities.
Facilities and services
The studio complex offers multiple soundstages of different sizes, production offices, scenic and prop shops, wardrobe and makeup areas, and post‑production suites. On‑site services commonly include stage and location rentals, production coordination, equipment rental support, and connections to local crews and vendors. The layout accommodates both large studio shoots and smaller independent productions.
Cultural and economic role
Kaufman Astoria Studios has contributed to New York's creative economy by providing jobs for technicians, artisans and performers and by attracting production spending to Queens and the surrounding region. Its urban location near Manhattan and its historic lineage make it an important site for productions seeking a city setting with full studio support.
Present day and community engagement
Today the studios continue to host national and international productions while supporting independent work, educational initiatives and community outreach tied to media and film training. Active production schedules limit general access, but the studio occasionally opens for tours, special events and industry programs that connect the public with film and television production.
Visiting and access
The complex is accessible by public transportation and sits within a neighborhood of mixed residential, commercial and cultural activity. Prospective visitors and production clients should contact the studio directly for information about guided tours, facility rentals and public programming.