IHEARTmedia SXSW
HOTEL SAINT CECILIA IN AUSTIN, TEXAS
the challenge
Transform Austin’s Hotel Saint Cecilia into a private destination for iHeartMedia during SXSW. For three days, the property needed to support a constantly evolving schedule of VIP hospitality, live broadcasts, podcast recordings, talent appearances, interviews, and partner activations. Each environment needed its own visual identity and purpose while still feeling connected to the larger iHeartMedia experience. The property also had to transition smoothly between changing programming, talent, audiences, and brand partners without losing its sense of cohesion.
the build
We designed and produced a series of custom physical environments across the hotel, turning different areas of the property into purpose-built spaces for broadcasting, content creation, hospitality, and branded engagement.
The build included custom broadcast and podcast sets, interview environments, branded backdrops, dimensional signage, wayfinding, and dedicated partner installations. Each activation was tailored to the needs of its programming and brand while remaining part of one cohesive visual system across the property.
Special attention was given to how guests, talent, production teams, and partners would move through and use the space. Every environment needed to look polished on camera, function effectively behind the scenes, and remain flexible enough to support a rotating three-day schedule.
the outcome
Hotel Saint Cecilia was transformed into a fully branded iHeartMedia destination built for the pace and visibility of SXSW. The completed experience gave talent, guests, production teams, and partners a polished setting for live programming, content creation, hospitality, and connection.
Despite the variety of broadcasts, activations, and participating brands, the property maintained a consistent identity throughout the event. The result was a flexible, cohesive home base that allowed iHeartMedia and its partners to move seamlessly through three days of changing talent, programming, and experiences.
SEE what we’ve built.
Each project reflects our ability to handle complexity, move fast, and deliver consistently — no matter the scope.