International Institute for Strategic Studies - UK

Tales of war and peace

Renovating a familiar and much admired property in the heart of London is no challenge for the faint of heart, especially when the building in question is over 200 years old and home to a prestigious international think tank, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS).

Arundel House was built in the late 19th Century and needed to operate as a 21st Century conference, banqueting, meeting and media centre without impacting the character of the building. In contrast the IISS then wanted an entire floor of a brand new skyscraper in Bahrain, kitted out as its Middle Eastern hub. Fortunately, however, Amina Invisible Loudspeakers provided the perfect solution for bringing the historic walls in London back to life whilst taking Bahrain’s blank canvas and turning it into something spectacular.

Given the nature of the plasterwork throughout the historic Arundel House, the challenge was to provide cutting-edge performance discretely. Fortunately one element of this most intricate installation would prove remarkably stress-free, through the use of Amina Invisible Loudspeakers.

A set of ten dedicated Amina loudspeakers were cut into the wall and covered with a thin layer of plaster, hiding them completely from view. An additional ten Amina loudspeakers were chosen to support the PA system in the main conference area and adjoining breakout rooms, these were located in the ceiling to offer the best possible sound reinforcement thanks to each loudspeaker’s wide sound dispersion.

Delighted with the renovated Arundel House, the IISS then gave the installer the task of designing and developing a versatile conference space within the IISS’ new Middle Eastern HQ in Bahrain. In complete contrast to the historical grandeur of London’s Victoria Embankment, the Bahrain venue was a brand new skyscraper where the IISS took over the entire 14th floor.

In keeping with the “invisible” theme of the system in Arundel House, once more, Amina were chosen. Two full sets of 5.1 surround loudspeakers along with a variety of speakers for PA use were installed invisibly, setting off the modern décor and high tech finishes of the offices.

Two contrasting buildings. Two continents. One invisible solution and one very satisfied customer.