Projects

Architectural Association, Bedford Square

Location

London, UK

Year

2024

‘Seamlessly Integrating Technology into Heritage Design’

A Sensitive Redevelopment
Based in the heart of Bloomsbury, 30 Bedford Square is the historic home of the world-renowned Architectural Association – one of the most prestigious architecture schools in the world. The brief was to transform this Grade I listed building into a highly functional and technically advanced event space, while respecting the integrity of its 250-year-old structure. The primary focus was the main lecture hall, adjacent jury rooms and the library – spaces that serve as core environments for teaching, presenting and public speaking.

LSI Projects’ Contribution

LSI Projects were appointed to deliver the full design, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of the audio-visual and event lighting systems. Working to a design developed by Theatre Projects, LSI implemented a highly flexible, networked solution allowing the room to serve as both a lecture theatre and a small-scale performance venue – with reconfigurable layouts and projection orientation depending on audience type or event format.

AV & Lighting Systems Included:

Projection & Video:
- Ultra-short-throw ViewSonic laser projectors
- Ceiling-recessed Projecta Sightline screens (from Legrand), fully hidden when not in use
- Matrixed Extron video switching and DSP
- Remote AV input and output for live video conferencing and guest presentations
Audio Systems:
- Fohhn loudspeakers, discreetly hidden behind acoustically transparent architectural cloth
- Distributed AV Boxes (AVBs) for audio, fibre, data, and power, linked back to a central AV rack
- Primary and fallback infrastructure for audio reinforcement and hybrid teaching setups
Lighting Control:
- ETC Paradigm system managing house and event lighting scenes
- Lighting controls integrated within the Extron touch panels and lectern UI
- RAL-matched surface-mounted fittings for visual consistency with architectural finishes

Balancing Heritage with High Functionality

One of the most critical aspects of this project was the discreet integration of modern systems into a highly sensitive architectural environment. Facility panels were recessed behind hinged wall and floor panels and AV hardware was colour-matched to blend seamlessly with the existing interiors.

Adding to the complexity, the building had to remain fully operational throughout the construction, with just a three-month window to complete all works – requiring meticulous coordination across trades and phases.

Given the building’s age and quirks – uneven surfaces, unaligned walls and the general unpredictability of a Georgian structure – detailed site surveying and planning with contractor NeuxPark were essential to ensure clean datums and seamless integration.

LSI Projects’ Contribution Included:

Networked Audio-Visual Infrastructure Across Lecture Hall & Jury Rooms
Ultra-Short-Throw Projection & Ceiling-Recessed Screens
RAL-Matched Loudspeakers in Architectural Niches
ETC Paradigm Lighting System Integrated with Extron AV Control
Reconfigurable Audio & Video for Hybrid and In-Person Presentations

Conclusion

LSI Projects delivered a technically sophisticated and aesthetically discreet solution that supports the Architectural Association’s diverse programme of lectures, presentations and events. The result is a smart, flexible teaching and event space that preserves the elegance of Bedford Square’s heritage while equipping it for the digital demands of contemporary academic life.

Featured Projects

Working globally on some of the most technically advanced venue and broadcast projects, we have built an enviable reputation as a world leader in system integration.