Breathing Space

Oxygen Makes Itself at Home at Hollywood Center Studios

For women across the United States, Oxygen's pink "oh!" logo has come to represent the edgiest, most innovative entertainment on television. Launched in 1999, the cable channel currently reaches some 70 million households and delivers more original series and specials than any other women's network.

Oxygen is headquartered in New York and has satellite offices in Chicago, Dallas and Los Angeles, the latter on the lot at Hollywood Center Studios. The Hollywood staff carries out most of the channel's development activities and oversees production, as most of its original series are produced nearby. Oxygen has shot many shows on the lot, including Mo'Nique's F.A.T. Chance, its groundbreaking beauty competition for women with "something extra." Most recently, Oxygen used one of Hollywood Center's stages to shoot Tease, a hair competition series, hosted by Lisa Rinna, premiering in January.

Oxygen set up shop at Hollywood Center in 2002 but within three years, the bustling operation found itself needing a little more elbow room. A quarter million dollar renovation solved the problem and provided it with beautiful new digs reflective of its energy, spirit and stature as the leader in television for women.

"We love it," says Robin Couto, director of West Coast finance and operations. "We had to put up with some banging during renovation, but it was worth it. It's made a huge difference to our operations."

Award-winning Los Angeles architect George Yu designed the renovation under the guidance of Oxygen CEO and co-founder Geraldine Laybourne. Hollywood Center assisted with logistics and infrastructure improvements. "They were very helpful through the transition," recalls Couto. "Whenever we needed something, they came right away. Prior to the renovation, we thought we might have to move because we were growing so fast, but everyone wanted to stay because we like it here so much."