case studies

Key Features

• Bespoke audio solution
• Custom-branded Graphic User Interface (GUI)
• Tablet control
• Tannoy system
• TV installations
• New cabling and connection circuits
• Professional audio systems
   

In collaboration with Virgin Active, we were delighted to be involved in the recent transformation of Virgin Active Wimbledon facility, adding to our extensive history of enhancing their premium club spaces, including the renowned Aldersgate site in London. Towards the end of 2023, our team delivered a suite of custom AV and control solutions to the latest club in the VA portfolio.

The contemporary layout and functionality of the club inspired us to create seamless solutions. From the Graphic User Interface (GUI) for AV tablet control rebranded in the iconic red Virgin colour palette to a complete kit-out focusing on background music systems, our integrations were designed to enhance usability and member experiences while blending in seamlessly with the modern aesthetic of the space.

To cater to various functions within the club, our team introduced a fresh system and kit for the fitness and wellness areas, upgrading connections for a superior experience. Working with a blank canvas of wiring posed challenges but offered the advantage of consistency in electrical mechanisms and wiring throughout the club, ensuring peace of mind for future upgrades.Because we were involved throughout the build, our team were able to customise and dress all of the wiring in a way that leaves the club fully future-proofed for upgrades in coming years.

Starting at the pool area, we installed white Evoson IO6 IP-rated speakers to provide professionally calibrated ambient background sound for swimmers throughout the day., enhancing acoustic feedback levels while providing humidity and water resistance.

The sound carries through into the luxurious changing rooms and lounge areas, where a fully distributed audio system using in-ceiling speakers seamlessly blends in with the painted ceiling, maintaining sound consistency. A standalone speaker continues the flow of sound into in the onsite staff meeting room further contributing to the unified audio environment. The reception space is home to a café lounge and smoothie bar, where guests can relax or socialise before and after classes or fitness sessions. We installed a flat-screen TV in the lounge to allow the club to play news content or run visual ads for promotions for guests to view.

Over in the fitness centre, Lift Club, and gym, we installed a series of Evoson Peaksound cabinet speakers alongside Evoson Coresound in-ceiling speakers for a full range of sound. To overcome some connectivity challenges posed by the building, we designed a unique dual-compatible system specifically for these spaces to always ensure 100% coverage.

The state-of-the-art Reformer studio, created to host for its Pilates sessions and wellness classes, features staggered white Bose ESP speakers along the walls. To give instructors full flexibility on how to run their classes, the speakers can receive both manual and digital sound input, defined by an in-room tablet that provides further fine-tuned control. This space is especially unique as it is the first example of a Background Music system (BGM) running off the Bose ESP, usually facilitated by Cloud or EMS system. It has proven very successful as a standalone integration and sets the precedent for future installations.

The brand-new large-scale cycle studio, designed for varying intensity levels, received standout sound solutions also received a premium sound treatment. We built and installed a new rack connected with a CX160 mixer, and Wharfedale 4035 amplifier and provided full control led by instructors through a tablet with a custom user interface to fine-tune the sound experience. Black Evoson Peaksound cabinet speakers seamlessly blended with the studio's dark aesthetic, offering powerfully tuned audio from high-intensity uphill climbs to gentle recovery rides. The result is an immersive sound experience that transforms the room and the classes it hosts varying class levels.

Overall, Virgin Active Wimbledon offers a seamless member, enhanced by fully calibrated professional sound at every step. From ambient background music in the reception, lounge, swimming pool, changing rooms, and Reformer studio to powerful, motivating sound in the main Lift Clubs, gym, and cycle studio. We look forward to our next Virgin Active project, and the integrations we’ll be able to deliver for this outstanding fitness and leisure provider.