Our client is an international leader in the cosmetics industry with its head office and production complex located in Nicosia, Cyprus. The client wanted a multi-purpose state of the art facility in which to conduct international conferences and undertake training.

It was essential that on entering the centre visitors be inspired and made to feel special - the whole experience to be more than simply attending a training session or conference. Throughout the centre superb attention to detail plays a key part in creating the perfect atmosphere - a stunning modern reception area, a stylish restaurant, sumptuous white leather seats in the auditorium and the welcoming audio and lighting effects establish the standard.

The auditorium is a two-storey high cylindrical structure, that has been constructed within what was previously an industrial building. At first the shape presented significant acoustic problems and the initial task for Lifestyle Technologies was to work with the architects at finding solutions.

The outcome is that walls have been finished in an arrangement of alternating waved surfaces, the main flooring is of wood, the seating tiers are carpeted, and soft textures are used throughout. An inspired arrangement of three concentric circular drywall panels forms the ceiling - aiding the distribution of sound whilst also providing access for installation and maintenance of equipment. This paved the way for Lifestyle Technologies to install the array of audio, video and lighting equipment to fulfil the client’s brief.

At the core of the installation is an audio-video system comprising three Optoma projectors aimed at three separate screens and integrated with a Renkuz Heinz professional audio system. Screens are located above the presenters, with the central screen accommodating PowerPoint and other presentations while the two side screens display supportive material or presenter images via a dome camera.

An essential part of our brief was the inclusion of an interpretation facility. We selected an RCF conference system that offers simultaneous translation in two languages - the translators being located in an adjoining room.

A Lutron lighting control system manages the auditorium, delegate and podium workspace lighting. An interesting feature of the lighting is the use of moving spotlights with Gobos - laser-cut discs depicting brand or company logos - set in the light rays. Before a presentation the moving images can be projected around the room helping to create ambiance.

The entire facility is controlled using a Crestron automation system. A customised touch panel displays a series of easy to use menus, allowing a presenter to pre-programme a complex sequence of operations depending on the type of presentation. Audio and video, special lighting features, simultaneous translation, and climate control can all be incorporated. At the touch of a button the whole sequence will then run from start to finish.