Client Overview
Life Sciences Hub Wales (LSHW) is the brand new, ground-breaking central resource for the whole of the life sciences sector in Wales.
Located at 3 Assembly Square in Cardiff Bay, the venue occupies an entire 12,000 sq. ft. floor of Grade A office space. The Welsh Government supported the fit-out, as well as the rent for the first five years, through its £100m Wales Life Sciences Investment Fund.
Project Brief
PAI was invited to the project by Paramount Interiors, tasked with providing AV integration expertise for the largescale fit-out.
The client required a substantial array of specialist future-proof technology across various areas; including a presentation space, boardroom, four meeting rooms, CEO office and multimedia pod.
Fully integrated solutions were needed to enable efficient communication and collaboration amongst the venue’s anchor tenants, who include; Arthurian Life Sciences, BBI Healthcare, Broomfield & Alexander, Cardiff University, GE Healthcare, Geldards LLP, Glaxo, Finance Wales, Johnson & Johnson, Microsoft, Swansea University, and Withers & Rogers.
Technical Solutions
PAI was tasked with specifying and integrating a range of audio, display, projection, centralised video recording, live streaming and video conferencing systems, along with all dedicated cabling and infrastructure.
The main focus of the impressive Presentation Space is a Sharp 80” LCD TV, with HD signal distribution achieved using signal extenders via the structured cabling. A presentation switcher was installed to enable the seamless switching of the multi-format display content from the various sources and connection points provided.
HD cameras were also fitted, with feeds passed to a SDI-HD switcher, which in turn delivers to a VC codex and lecture capture webcast system. A spot monitor feed from the HD cameras was also delivered to the technical operator position, along with the addition of a camera control keyboard. Video recording and web streaming is provided by the Crestron Capture HD Pro.
For video conferencing a Polycom HDX 7000 Series video codec was installed to the central rack. Cabinet loudspeakers installed to the media wall and additional recessed ceiling loudspeakers provide high quality audio, with wireless handheld and lapel microphones for voice reinforcement. Additional digital sound processing comes via a Symetrix DSP that enables control of presets and volume via an iOS platform.
Each of three meeting rooms benefitted from a 60” Sharp LCD TV, with a 70” model installed in Meeting Room 4. AV connectivity was provided via cable cubbies within desk furniture. Meeting Room 4 also benefits from a Polycom HDX7000 video conference codec, with control of the display, audio and input sources via an iPad platform.
In the Boardroom a 5000 lumen HD resolution projector was paired with a three metre retractable electric screen, with a further codec providing video conferencing capabilities here too. In the CEO office a 42” Sharp LCD TV has been wall mounted, with AV connectivity coming via a desk mounted cable cubby and local floor box. Electronic room booking is managed through EVOKO systems, with crystal-clear displays positioned outside each office.
A Samsung SUR40 table top, multi touch display solution sits centrally within the state-of-the-art Multimedia Pod – providing intuitive, responsive and versatile technology. PAI also provided desktop monitors throughout the Hub.
Outcome
PAI successfully delivered this complex AV scheme ahead of schedule, providing a full turnkey solution to create an impressive high-tech workplace. Client training was conducted and comprehensive O&M manuals produced following project handover.
The Life Sciences Hub Wales was officially opened by Economy Minister Edwina Hart. Dragons’ Den star and retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis was also present at the launch, along with Health Minister Mark Drakeford.
The scheme completes a trio of projects at 3 Assembly Square, following previous work for KPMG and ITV Cymru Wales. It is envisaged that the venue will become a central pillar in the vision to create a thriving Life Sciences eco-system in Wales – bringing activity, knowledge, people and policy together.
Comment
“We were absolutely delighted with the services provided at the Hub by PAI. Their expertise and professionalism throughout has been second to none. The AV installation has enabled all stakeholders within the Life Sciences Hub Wales to collaborate simply and effectively, which is the core ethos of this new and exciting venture.” – Dr Ian Barwick, Chief Operating Officer, Life Sciences Hub Wales Ltd
