Why Are Film Productions in Long Island City Attracted to The Foundry?
Film and commercial productions need authentic locations with practical infrastructure. Crews from Manhattan, Brooklyn, and across the metro area use The Foundry because it provides a 19th-century industrial building, multiple shooting environments, and accessible Long Island City positioning. The venue's history of hosting film, video, and photo shoots supports efficient production execution.
Film productions are drawn to The Foundry in Long Island City for its authentic 19th-century industrial architecture, versatile shooting environments, and convenient location. The venue offers a variety of spaces, including a main area with mezzanine, courtyard, greenhouse, terrace, and additional rooms, making it suitable for different production needs.
A 19th Century Foundry with Industrial Character
The Foundry in Long Island City attracts productions because of its industrial heritage. The 19th-century building manufactured fine varnishes before housing the Albra Metal Foundry. The Albra logo remains visible at 9th Street and 43rd Avenue. By 1906, it was one of several steel foundries serving New York City's riverfront manufacturers. The Du Val family purchased the property in 1980, restored it to reflect its original industrial character, and began hosting events in 2001. It's the only foundry in the area still standing today. The interior features 3,000 square feet of raw space with exposed brick and a mezzanine. This authentic architecture works on camera without requiring set construction.
Multiple Environments for Different Shot Requirements
Productions use The Foundry because it offers distinct areas within one location. The main space includes the ground floor and mezzanine levels. The ivy-covered Courtyard provides exterior filming with Queensboro Bridge views. The Greenhouse has weathered brick walls, a skylight ceiling, and year-round interior ivy. The rooftop Terrace offers views of the Manhattan skyline and Queensboro Bridge. The Albra Room features white walls, alcove-shaped mirrors, and a steel wheel. The Billiard Room adds another interior option. Productions can shoot different setups without relocating across the city.
Kitchen Facilities and Dual Access Points
The venue includes a fully equipped industrial kitchen. Two entrance points support production logistics: the main entrance at 42-38 Ninth Street and a caterer and kitchen entrance at 42-32 Ninth Street. This dual access helps coordinate equipment and crew staging.
Twelve-Hour Rentals with On-Site Staff
Rentals run 12 hours, covering load-in, shooting, and wrap. Three staff members work on site during productions: a street monitor, a door coordinator, and an operations manager. Equipment removal continues until 2:00 AM. The venue also hosts weddings, corporate events, launch parties, and bar and bat mitzvahs alongside production work.
Transit and Highway Access
The location at 42-38 9th Street connects to multiple subway lines. E and M trains stop at 23rd and Court Square. The R train stops at Queens Plaza. N and 7 trains stop at Queensborough Plaza. The F train stops at 21st Street, Queensbridge. The neighborhood links to Manhattan via the Queensboro Bridge and maintains highway connections for equipment transport.
Conclusion
Film productions choose The Foundry for its authentic 19th-century industrial architecture, varied shooting environments, and Long Island City access. The restored foundry, the only one remaining in the area, provides genuine period character. To discuss production requirements or arrange a location scout, call 718-786-7776 or email ao@thefoundry.info.
Ready to explore The Foundry for your next production? Contact us to arrange a walkthrough or discuss availability.
FAQs
What makes this location work for film productions?
The Foundry is a 19th-century foundry with 3,000 square feet of raw space, exposed brick, and multiple areas, including a main space with mezzanine, courtyard, greenhouse, terrace, and additional rooms. The industrial architecture provides authentic New York production value.
What production support is included?
The venue offers a fully equipped industrial kitchen, two entrance points for load-in, 12-hour rental periods, and three on-site staff members. Equipment wrap extends until 2:00 AM.
How do crews reach the location?
Multiple subway lines serve the area: E, M, R, N, 7, and F trains. The main entrance is at 42-38 Ninth Street with a separate caterer and kitchen entrance at 42-32 Ninth Street.
What spaces are available?
Rentals include the main space with ground floor and mezzanine, plus the Courtyard. The Terrace, Greenhouse, Albra Room, and Billiard Room can be added as additional spaces.