Audio visual (AV) services are often brought into a project long after floorplans, ceilings and services have been locked in. At this stage, there’s limited flexibility to accommodate design changes. This late inclusion can lead to rework, increased costs and programme delay.
Common issues include the position of displays and speakers being based on available space over performance. Decisions like this can result in poor sightlines, uneven sound coverage and reduced usability. Equipment may be located in tight spaces, making them both difficult to access and providing inadequate ventilation.
Rework may include the need to modify ceiling design to accommodate for speakers or containment. Power and data may also be extended beyond the original design.
Any decision to include AV services late in the programme adds complexity and increased co-ordination between specialist disciplines and architects. AV requirements need to integrate with MEP, communications and architectural elements. Late AV services’ design can mean significant compromises, impacting both system performance and the overall design outcome.
Plan your AV early
Early planning of AV can lead to:
- reduced rework and cost risk- plan early to integrate power, containment, structure and equipment within the base design, reducing the need for later changes.
- defined user spaces – establish a clear vision from the start on what the intended space will be used for. This gives each space purpose and captures AV requirements.
- resolve viewing angles, sound coverage and usability as part of the initial design, ensuring spaces perform as intended.
- better design coordination- coordinate AV with architecture, structure and services to avoid clashes and maintain design intent.
- improved programme and budget certainty – define scope early and coordinate across disciplines to reduce changes during delivery.
- minimised disruption with future-ready systems – allow for flexibility to support future upgrades and changing user needs through early planning.
How to define AV requirements
AV requirements should be considered alongside the base-building design to support both current use and future flexibility.
Operational requirements
Define the purpose of each space, user types and whether spaces are single or multi-use. Consider the type of users which will be occupying or using the space.
Scope of works
Clearly define which spaces require AV and coordinate early with architects to capture requirements.
Physical room design
Allow for ceiling types and heights, structural support for displays, and suitable equipment locations with access and ventilation.
Display design
Coordinate viewing distances, sightlines and mounting heights. Select display type and performance based on content and use.
Audio system design
Define requirements for speech, conferencing, zoning and echo control. Include accessibility where required.
Budget and cost planning
Establish cost allowances early, including infrastructure and integration.
Codes and standards
Align with client standards and ensure compatibility with other systems.
Network and power allocations
Capture network, power and containment requirements within the ICT and services design.
Architectural and interior coordination
Coordinate ceilings, joinery and access. Allow for layout flexibility and integrating future changes.
Reduce rework and programme delay
Early integration of AV is a practical step to reduce risk, avoid rework and deliver spaces that function as intended. Bringing AV into the design process at the right time leads to more coordinated, efficient and reliable project outcomes.
