WeHo considering smaller version of Vegas sphere, dubbed the 'Sphere on Sunset'
WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif. - The city of West Hollywood is contemplating the construction of its own version of the Las Vegas sphere, albeit on a much smaller scale, aptly named the "Sphere on Sunset."
Proposed to be situated adjacent to the Pendry West Hollywood hotel, this unique structure will not be used as an entertainment venue, akin to its Las Vegas counterpart. Instead, it will serve as a broadcast facility, equipped with various features such as a reception room, green rooms, and a rooftop terrace.
The concept of the "Sphere on Sunset" brings a unique addition to West Hollywood, offering a distinctive approach to broadcasting and multimedia events within the city.
While the Las Vegas sphere may have faced financial setbacks, West Hollywood aims to harness the potential of this architectural endeavor to enhance the city's allure and provide a cutting-edge facility for various creative endeavors.
The proposed structure, a 49-foot diameter glass sphere, will offer exterior pedestrian-oriented amenities and interior spaces designed for real-time broadcasting. To support the structure, notches in the sphere's rear will enable it to cantilever over the neighboring apartment building. This broadcast theme will be evident through a digital console beneath the sphere and a series of vertical pipe totems, underscoring the role of broadcast media in the Sunset Strip's lore.
Suspended independently from the apartment building, the glass orb will consist of three floor levels. However, details about the structural support, cleaning, and maintenance of the glass sphere, as well as drainage systems, remain undefined.
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The Sphere hovers eight feet above a public-oriented plaza at ground level with an existing basement level below. The low clearance might pose challenges for pedestrians, prompting consideration for increased clearance or alternative experiences for plaza-goers.
The plaza, a quasi-public space open 24/7, boasts a "broadcast-themed" forecourt as part of the public realm enhancement requirements under the billboard policy. It extends into a "view corridor," adhering to Sunset Specific Plan requirements, concluding at an elevated south overlook space with an iron halo feature.
Above the plaza, two interior floor levels will cater to reception, prep, green room activities, broadcasting, and podcasting activities. At the top of the sphere, a semi-enclosed roof terrace will host a public viewing area, though the specifics of its use remain unclear.
Despite its notable presence on social media and widespread popularity, the Las Vegas sphere has faced financial challenges since its inauguration. According to a recent report, The Sphere incurred a substantial loss of approximately $100 million in the first quarter of operation. Sphere Entertainment has reported earnings of $8 million since September 30th. This revenue has been generated through a combination of hosting shows and events, as well as advertising partnerships.