Acoustics and Audiovisual Studies – Corn Exchange and Harpur Suite - Charcoalblue LLP

Tender description

Bedford Borough Council is seeking specialist consultants to undertake acoustics and audiovisual studies for Bedford Corn Exchange and the Harpur Suite. We are seeking advice on acoustic treatments and audiovisual equipment purchasing for a refurbishment of the venue being carried out at the current time. Acoustics Scope and deliverables Site visit by 2no. acousticians to conduct acoustics tests to evaluate the venue and in particular measure: • Reverberation time in the room with retracted and deployed seats. • Background noise levels from ventilation system. • Noise intrusion from environment (e.g. traffic). • Sound separation to two substage meeting rooms and to the Howard Room. Playing pink noise using the house sound system to evaluate noise transmission to these nearby rooms. Analysis of data and in principle advice on possible improvements on: • Room acoustics e.g. addition of sound absorbing finishes or variable acoustic system. • Background noise levels and noise intrusion. • Sound insulation. • Review of the Charcoalblue feasibility options for extension of the Corn Exchange with a fly loft/tower against the proposed improvements for the existing space and advise on any considerations and/or additional future proofing improvement works which could be undertaken as part of the current refurbishment. Acoustic site visit and testing assumptions: • Measurements can be undertaken during daytime and overnight accommodation in Bedford will not be required. • Bedford Corn Exchange personnel will be available to assist with deployment and removal of seats. • Bedford Corn Exchange personnel will be available to turn on/off the ventilation system • Bedford Corn Exchange personnel will be available to assist with use of the house audio system. Audiovisual Scope and deliverables • Site visit by an Audiovisual consultant to see existing installation and have a workshop with the technical team to discuss aspirations and requirements for a new audio system in the Corn Exchange, and to appreciate what of the existing system can be retained. • Review of the Charcoalblue feasibility options for extension of the Corn Exchange with a fly loft/tower alongside the current refurbishment audio system options. • Review acoustic improvement proposals. • Conduct high level audio coverage analysis of the existing room, and proposed room (audio ‘heat map’) based on a single preferred manufacturer. • Provide high level advice / options for current refurbishment audio systems which will deliver excellent performance in the existing venue but will also be transferrable into the proposed extended venue to maximise the potential investment.