Behind the Build: Our Front Doors Are In — A Major Step for Aura Lux Studios

There’s something powerful about a door. It’s more than just a structure—it’s an entry point, a frame for new experiences, and a signal that what’s behind it matters. Today at Aura Lux Studios, our very first front doors were installed. It might seem like a small construction update, but for us, it marks one of the most meaningful milestones yet. Until now, our photography studio in Lawrenceville has existed mostly on paper and in our imagination—design sketches, permit plans, Pinterest boards, and dusty job site walkthroughs. But with the doors in place, the space feels real. Tangible. Alive.

A Studio Begins to Take Shape

When we first imagined Aura Lux, we didn’t just envision a room with a camera and lights. We pictured an experience. One where every client who walks in feels inspired, confident, and creatively seen. From the window placement to the paint colors to the textures of the furniture, every detail is being considered through that lens. Seeing the front doors go in today brought all of that one step closer to reality.

Golden door handles pop against the black-framed glass, creating the perfect contrast—while the expansive glass panels flood the space with natural light.

This was the first time the space felt like a studio, not just a work-in-progress. As the glass panels slid into their frame and the final bolts were secured, it was clear this was more than just a construction task—it was a transformation.

Why These Doors Matter

They may be just one feature of the space, but these doors hold weight. Every client, creative, and collaborator will walk through them. They'll be the first thing people see when they arrive for a shoot. They’ll mark the beginning of each session, each story, each new connection. We chose modern, full-glass panels framed in a soft matte black. Clean, minimal, timeless. They let in beautiful natural light while giving the studio a feeling of openness and calm. They reflect the design language we’re building inside: bright, refined, and inviting. This entryway is more than just a threshold—it sets the tone for everything to come.

Inside Aura Lux Studios: A Preview

While the exterior starts to come together, the inside of Aura Lux is also quickly taking shape. Here’s a small preview of what clients and creatives can expect.

• Expansive windows to flood the space with natural light throughout the day

• Multiple shooting zones with curated backdrops, wall textures, and flexible setups

• A client lounge area for relaxing, reviewing images, or prepping before a session

• Full lighting systems for both natural-light and studio-style shoots

• A neutral, modern palette that works with all skin tones, styles, and moods

Every square foot is being designed with purpose. We want Aura Lux to feel like a space where creativity flows freely and professionalism never feels cold or rigid.

How We Got Here

Like any project, the journey has come with its share of challenges and quiet wins. There have been early mornings with contractors, late nights reviewing finish samples, city inspections, delays, budget tweaks, and a million tiny decisions we never expected to make. There’s a lot that happens between dream and done. But there’s also been real joy in the process. Seeing our vision take shape, piece by piece. Watching walls go up, hearing from other Pittsburgh creatives excited about the studio, and now, seeing the entryway finished—it all reminds us why we started this.

Sleek and modern, the door’s clean lines bring a polished touch to the raw energy of the construction site—where vision meets progress each day.

Next Steps for the Studio

Now that the doors are in, the rest of the studio is on a fast-moving track. Over the next few weeks, here’s what’s happening:

• Interior walls are being finished and painted

• Our signature flooring is going in

• Lighting and backdrop tracks will be installed

• Furniture, props, and creative tools are being delivered

• Our client prep area is being styled and set

As soon as these steps are complete, we’ll begin announcing availability and taking bookings. Our team is focused on making the space fully functional, thoughtfully styled, and ready for launch.

Staying Connected

We’ll be sharing progress updates here on the blog as well as on our Instagram account. If you’re a local creative or business owner who wants to be one of the first to shoot in the space, now’s the time to get in touch.

Looking Ahead

Today’s update may seem simple—just a set of doors—but for us, it means everything. It marks the transition from construction to creation. From blueprint to business. From an empty shell to a home for creativity. To everyone who has followed us on this journey so far, thank you. Your support, questions, excitement, and messages mean the world. We can’t wait to open the doors of Aura Lux Studios and welcome you in. This is just the beginning.