Mar 29 2010
Digital signage blends harmoniously within the art deco architecture and adds experiential value for visitors and guests.
Scala, the leading provider of end-to-end connected signage software, today announces that Certified Partner, Beaver Solutions (part of the Beaver Group), has created an iconic digital signage network for the Royal Institute of British Architects (the RIBA). Designed to offer the RIBA visitors a visually immersive experience and to promote culture, events and exhibitions, the RIBA’s network engages visitors with two channels of high-quality content displayed on some of the largest plasma screens available today.
The RIBA is the UK body for the architectural profession. With headquarters in central London in a grade two listed historic building, the RIBA provides membership services for qualified architects as well as education, outreach and event programs for the public.
Commenting on the installation, a representative from the RIBA said, “The Royal Institute of British Architects hosts a number of different architectural exhibitions and corporate events in its art deco headquarters in London. The installation of digital media has created a practical and stylish way of informing visitors how best to enjoy the building. We are delighted with the outcome.”
Upon entry, visitors and members are welcomed by a 103” Panasonic plasma screen which is used to deliver high-impact, quality content on the RIBA’s cultural activities, exhibitions, restaurant, conferences and events. This screen is built into an alcove on the main staircase and consequently becomes a seamless part of the overall design of the main lobby.
The lobby also contains a number of portrait-oriented 42” plasma screens inside custom bezels that provide visitors with relevant meeting and conference timetables. The RIBA’s own meeting organizer software is integrated into the network to facilitate the automatic delivery of event and meeting room agenda and other content into pre-designed templates for display on-screen.
“We’re very pleased with the outcome of this project, especially the integration of screens into the built environment. So often screen media is added on as an afterthought or not integrated into the fabric of a building. If anyone wishes to see how digital media can be seamlessly integrated into a building, I’d like to invite them to the RIBA,” said Peter Critchley, Managing Director of Beaver Solutions.
Beaver Solutions specified that the RIBA’s network should use Scala to control the content and asset management functions that influence the quality and timeliness of the RIBA’s visual presentation. This content is created within the Scala suite through the use of Scala Designer prior to it being scheduled for play-out on-screen. The team at the RIBA have also been trained to use Scala Designer, providing them with the opportunity to create their own content with a template environment and (working with Beaver) have this scheduled for play-out within a matter of hours. Beaver also project managed the installation and runs the RIBA’s network operations.
“This work is an excellent example of combining form and function harmoniously. Visitors to the RIBA see high-quality content within the design of the building itself rather than additional to, and that fact alone makes it a very attractive and engaging proposition,” said Oscar Elizaga, VP EMEA, Scala. “Now that the RIBA team can use Scala to provide their own information quickly to the screens, visitors can be assured they have the best and latest information to help them maximize their enjoyment of their visit.”
Source: http://www.architecture.com/