AstroLab Studios Toronto
Frequently asked questions
Booking, insurance, cancellations and the shoot day itself. Not here? Ask us.
The studio & support spaces
Does AstroLab host multiple productions at a time?
Never! The Lab is a single-production facility, meaning you will never share any space with anyone else. When you book with us, you get exclusive access to our 3,800 SF soundstage and 1,700 SF of support spaces. Spread out and get comfy!
What types of projects are a fit at AstroLab?
We specialize in hosting commercial and corporate productions, music videos, digital content, photo shoots, and events. We’ve also hosted press days, live streams, and third-unit shoots. The sky’s the limit! Take a look at our Instagram to view some past projects.
What are the studio specs?
View the detailed studio specs right here. Our entire facility is 5,500 SF, including our 3,800 SF Stage.
What support spaces do you have?
View all of our support spaces here! The Lab has TONS of support spaces to make your clients, talent, crew and most importantly yourself, feel right at home. Some highlights are our large kitchen/lounge, hair and makeup room and comfy green room/workspace.
Is the Studio soundproofed?
Yes, The Lab was purpose-built as a soundstage and our studio is acoustically treated. It’s basically as quiet as outer space, but with better acoustics.
Can I book The Lab as an event space?
You can! The Lab is a one-of-a-kind Toronto event venue perfect for influencer engagement, workshops and panels, live streaming, trade shows and, of course, corporate events! Check out our corporate events page.
Equipment rentals
What equipment do you have available in-house?
The Lab has nearly everything you need for your shoot. You can choose from our lighting and grip package or our video village package, or build your own EQ list! Check out our gear page here.
Can you sub-rent equipment on my behalf?
Yup! Just give us your list, and we’ll get you a quote! We coordinate delivery and pickup, so all your gear will be here when you arrive to load in.
Can I bring my own equipment and rentals from other vendors into the studio?
For sure! But if you’re ever in a bind and need some more gear, you can add equipment any time before your shoot, and on the day if it’s available.
Does AstroLab rent equipment outside of the studio?
Not yet! For now, our equipment stays in the building and rents alongside a studio booking.
Booking
How can I book?
Simply reach out with some details about your project and which dates you’re looking to book!
Can I view the space before I book?
We’d love to show you around! Just contact us to schedule a tour.
What are your rates?
Check out our rate card. You can book out our entire facility for a Production Shoot Day (13hrs), priced live in our estimate builder, or for an Event Day, which we quote. We keep our rates fair, with no hidden fees.
What’s included with my booking?
In short, a lot! All bookings include our 3,800 SF soundstage and 1,700 SF of support spaces (large kitchen, green room, hair and makeup room, two change rooms, one with an accessible ensuite, and more)! We offer free on-site parking, Wi-Fi, a SkyJack Scissor Lift (lift ticket required) and (you guessed it) more! You can even choose to add our lighting and grip package or video village package (priced in the estimate builder) or a fresh custom paint job. Hydro (power and distro) is charged by the day and comes included with the lighting and grip package. On top of all that, a member of our team will always be on-site during your shoot to answer any questions and help your production run smoothly.
What’s your cancellation policy?
Cancellations* made at least 10 business days before the start of your booking: $100 charge. Less than 10 business days’ notice: 50% charge of the total studio & equipment rental booking fee. Less than 72 hours’ notice: 100% charge of the total studio and equipment rental booking fee. *The official cancellation policy noted in your booking agreement is final.
Can I book The Studio without Support Spaces?
Nope. All bookings include access to the entire facility at a flat rate. View our rates here.
What type of insurance do I need?
You or your production must hold valid insurance* at all times during your reserved time at The Lab. Requirements: AstroLab Studios Inc. must be named an “Additional Insured” on your policy; your policy must provide a minimum of $1,000,000 per occurrence in Commercial General Liability coverage (for all bookings); for bookings which include AstroLab equipment: Miscellaneous Rented Equipment coverage for at least the full replacement value of that equipment, with AstroLab Studios Inc. named as “Loss Payee”. *Insurance policy requirements noted in your booking agreement are final.
Location
How do I reach the studio?
The Lab is conveniently located on the Revival Lot at 629 Eastern Avenue (parallel to Queen St. East) in Toronto, just 10 minutes from downtown. Easily reach us by walk, bike, drive, bus, streetcar or rocket ship! View our lot map here. You can enter through the east doors (where the Enterprise Car Rental sign is). To load in, you can use our freight elevator that opens right into the studio! Detailed instructions are also on our getting here page.
Do you have parking?
Oh yeah! View our lot map here. We have tons of free on-site parking for vehicles and even a handy bike rack at our entrance. (Unfortunately, we’re still working on getting a spaceship landing pad set up).
Is AstroLab accessible?
The Lab is partially accessible! Visitors can use our freight elevator and our accessible restroom, equipped with support handlebars and lightweight doors. We also have wide hallways and doorways. If you’d like to discuss specific accommodations or ask for a walkthrough before you book, please reach out to us.
Other
What are your hours?
Office: 10 AM - 6 PM, Monday to Friday. Studio: 24/7 by appointment, booked between 6 AM and 11 PM. Shoot, prep and wrap days are 13 hours, a prep or wrap day can be 10 hours for less, and overtime applies past your booked hours.
Does AstroLab have an in-house production team?
We have a roster of trusted freelancers we subcontract onto shoots, and you can book the roles you need in the estimate builder. For larger production needs, we’ll recommend a partner production company.
How does AstroLab support the community?
AstroLab is proudly located in Toronto’s vibrant Leslieville Community, home to tons of artisanal shops, artsy stores and more! Giving back to the film community is also very important to us. Since we opened our doors, we’ve partnered with POV Film, a Toronto organization whose programs intentionally prioritize BIPOC, 2SLGBTQIA+, newcomer and refugee creators working to break into the TV & film industry. We’ve also collaborated with FOFS, Reelworld Film Festival, and Images Festival, among others, to provide studio space for up-and-coming creators. If you’re part of a community-driven organization that would like to collaborate, please reach out to us!
Is AstroLab part of some big corporation?
Nope! We’re a small local business. There are just three of us, and a few awesome part-time studio staff!
Is AstroLab a spaceport?
Despite popular belief, AstroLab technically doesn’t launch spaceships, but it’s on our bucket list!
Questions?
Comets?
Hit us up!
- 24/7Studio accessBy appointment
- 10AM - 6PMSupportMonday to Friday