At Space City Pro, our mission is to fuse cutting-edge technology with the timeless elegance of historic venues, creating experiences that resonate on every level. Our expertise in corporate event production allows us to deliver outstanding results in even the most challenging environments. This was exemplified when we provided comprehensive technical production services for the Trinity Annual Conference hosted by the Global Methodist Church. The event took place in a historic venue, where we expertly balanced the preservation of its architectural significance with the integration of state-of-the-art AV technology, delivering a flawless experience for both in-person and remote attendees.
How to Integrate Modern AV Technology in Historic Venues
Historic Venue, Modern Demands
Working within the constraints of a historic building presented a unique set of challenges. Our primary objective was to implement modern audiovisual solutions that met the technical demands of a large-scale conference while respecting the integrity of the space. Here’s how we navigated these challenges:
- Maximizing Seating Capacity: We carefully designed the layout to ensure maximum seating while maintaining unobstructed sightlines for all attendees.
- High-Quality AV Content: We delivered crystal-clear audio-visual content both within the venue and to remote participants, ensuring everyone had an immersive experience.
- Aesthetic Enhancement: Our team enhanced the ambient environment with advanced lighting solutions that complemented the venue’s historical aesthetics without overshadowing its charm.
Key Takeaways for Event Planners
- Collaborative Synergy: Success in historic venues requires seamless collaboration between technical teams, venue staff, and external vendors to respect the space while meeting modern expectations.
- Tailored Solutions: Customizing AV and lighting setups to fit the architectural and aesthetic nuances of a venue ensures that the technology enhances rather than detracts from the experience.
- Adaptability: Being prepared to adapt to unexpected challenges, such as high ambient light levels, is crucial. Selecting the right technology, like high-lumen projectors, can mitigate these issues effectively.
Lessons Learned in Historic Venue Event Production
- Early Integration is Key: Involving the AV team early in the planning process allows for better integration of technology with the venue’s existing infrastructure, reducing the risk of last-minute adjustments.
- Attention to Detail Pays Off: Small adjustments, like the orientation of projection content or the placement of lighting fixtures, can make a significant difference in the overall experience.
- Client-Centric Focus: Prioritizing the client’s vision and ensuring that every technical decision aligns with their goals leads to higher satisfaction and long-term partnerships.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Enhancing Event Production
How We Enhanced AV Integration Without Disrupting a Historic Venue
One of the key factors in our success was our ability to enhance the venue’s existing infrastructure without disrupting its historical essence. Here’s a breakdown of how we did it:
- Utilizing Existing Equipment: We leveraged the house cameras and integrated them into the existing video switcher, router, and fiber ties. This approach minimized disruptions while ensuring seamless operation.
- Strategic Equipment Placement: We carefully planned the placement of equipment to avoid obstructing views and pathways, preserving the venue's natural flow and aesthetic.
- Advanced Technology Integration: By integrating high-end equipment like the Barco UDX-4K32 projectors, we ensured that all content was clear and vivid, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Projection Solutions for Challenging Conditions
Projection Technology Tailored to Historic Venues
The venue’s large stained glass windows created high ambient light levels, which posed a significant challenge for projection. To counter this, we selected Barco UDX-4K32 projectors, renowned for their exceptional brightness and color accuracy. These projectors delivered 4K UHD resolution with a powerful 31,000 lumens light output, ensuring that all displayed content was clear and vivid, even in challenging lighting conditions. The Constant Light Output (CLO) functionality of these projectors provided consistent brightness throughout the event, making them an ideal choice for this high-profile conference.
Tailored Visuals for Maximum Impact
Projection and Display Technology
Our architectural projection for in-room attendees was a standout feature, tailored in portrait orientation to align with the venue’s design. This setup served dual purposes: providing iMAG video during worship sessions and displaying slide content, charts, photos, and graphics during business sessions.
For the remote audience, we delivered content in a traditional 16x9 format via online live streams and overflow spaces. This dual-format delivery was managed through a PiscesLED video server, offering rock-solid reliability and seamless content routing, controlled via a StreamDeck for precise sequencing.
Innovative Lighting Solutions for Historic Venues
Lighting Technology that Balances Tradition and Innovation
To meet the unique lighting requirements of the historic venue, we deployed Source Four LED Series 3 Daylight HDR fixtures from ETC for front lighting, ensuring proper illumination for video broadcasting. These fixtures were chosen for their high output and color accuracy, essential for delivering clear, natural-looking video content.
For environmental lighting, we used SGM P1 battery-driven LED wash lights to add vibrant color and ambiance to the stage. These lights played a pivotal role in enhancing the space, particularly by complementing the color palette of the stained glass windows. The wash lights beautifully illuminated the pipe organ and other architectural features, adding a modern touch while preserving the building’s historical integrity.
What Our Clients Say
Client Testimonial
"Brandon, Chandler, and their team truly put the 'pro' in Space City Pro. They exceeded my every expectation, bringing in the latest technology and putting it to work beautifully in a historic, 100-year-old venue. The results impressed our clients and wowed 1,200 event attendees. During our three-day event, their team worked with deep knowledge and expertise, and they worked quickly to identify and resolve issues in real time. Rarely have I found a media vendor more personable and knowledgeable, integrating seamlessly into the larger team I had assembled. We experienced high value for the investment and will continue to call on Space City as trusted partners and friends in the business."
— Mike Sims, Strategic Communications Consultant, Global Methodist Church
Value Adds for Event Planners
- Scalable Solutions: Whether your event is in a historic venue or a modern space, our scalable AV solutions can be tailored to fit your needs, ensuring a flawless experience for all attendees.
- Expert Guidance: We provide expert consultation to help you navigate the complexities of integrating technology into your event, offering solutions that respect both the venue and your budget.
- Comprehensive Support: From initial planning to post-event analysis, our team is with you every step of the way, ensuring that your event runs smoothly and achieves its objectives.
Production Credits
Technology:
- Projection Technology: Barco UDX-4K32 projectors – 4K UHD resolution, 31,000 lumens light output, Constant Light Output (CLO) functionality. (https://www.barco.com/en/product/udx-4k32)
- Lighting Fixtures: Source Four LED Series 3 Daylight HDR – High output and color accuracy for video broadcasting. (https://www.etcconnect.com/Products/Entertainment-Fixtures/Source-Four-LED-Series-3/Features.aspx?LangType=1033)
- Environmental Lighting: SGM P1 LED wash lights – Battery-driven LED wash lights for vibrant color and ambiance. (https://sgmlight.com/products/p1)
- Video Server: PiscesLED video server – Reliable content routing and seamless integration. (https://piscesled.com/our-products/)
Crew:
- Executive Produces: Mike Sims, Winsome Co.
- Production Manager: Chandler Christie, Space City Pro
- Systems Engineer & Content: Michael Smith, Space City Pro
- Video Technical Director: Brandon West, Space City Pro
- Graphics Operator: Chloe Christie, Space City Pro
- Video Engineer: Jack Easterwood, Freelance
- House Production Manager: Claiborne Sharp, First Methodist Shreveport
- Acoustic Engineer: Jim Young, Freelance
- Photography: Max Otter, Max Otter Productions
- Photography: Addison Burnham, Freelance
- Photography: Ally Yepsen, Freelance
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best AV technologies for historic venues?
The best AV technologies for historic venues are those that balance high performance with minimal intrusion. Equipment like the Barco UDX-4K32 projectors and Source Four LED Series 3 Daylight HDR fixtures are excellent choices because they provide high output and clarity without compromising the venue’s aesthetic.
How can lighting enhance the atmosphere in a heritage building?
Lighting can significantly enhance the atmosphere in a heritage building by highlighting architectural features, complementing existing colors (like stained glass windows), and creating an immersive environment that aligns with the event's tone.
What steps should I take to integrate AV solutions in a historic venue?
Early planning and collaboration with AV professionals are crucial. Begin by assessing the venue’s infrastructure, choose equipment that blends seamlessly with the environment, and ensure that all installations are done with respect for the venue's historical significance.
Ready to Elevate Your Next Event?
The success of the Trinity Annual Conference is a testament to our commitment to excellence in every project we undertake. If you’re looking to seamlessly integrate innovation with heritage at your next event, Space City Pro is here to help. Book a consultation today and discover how our expertise can turn your vision into reality.
To learn more about this project, read our Case Study.