London, UK – Under the ongoing redevelopment remit of BAFTA’s 195 Piccadilly headquarters, the world-renowned charity engaged technical solutions specialist White Light (WL) to manage the installation of its new state-of-the-art technological infrastructure. Officially opening in 2022, 195 Piccadilly will be a creative centre for film, games and television and the central hub for BAFTA’s UK-wide, and global, learning and talent development programme. It will also be a truly world-class space, providing innovative facilities for all event needs, whether live, virtual or hybrid.
WL has been involved with the development of the ambitious project since its inception back in 2016. The scope included equipping BAFTA with its first ever dedicated learning space and state-of-the-art technology to help increase revenues, enabling its charitable remit to be fulfilled for years to come.
Based on a system designed by consultancy Charcoalblue, WL was appointed to devise an integrated technical package for the overriding system control, as well as fully manage the installation process.
To reflect BAFTA’s world-class status and relationships with leading manufacturers including Christie, Dolby, ETC and QSC, 195 Piccadilly has been equipped with some of the most cutting-edge equipment on the market. The very latest Christie projection system installed in the Ray Dolby Room, has allowed the space to become a fully projection-mapped environment. This offers clients a 360° digital canvas which they can personalise and has the potential to bring the space to life with dynamic content for both in-person and digital events.
WL’s Senior Project Manager – Jason Larcombe commented: “195 Piccadilly will be a centre of excellence for the creative industries and a flagship showroom for global brands to showcase their latest technology. This project spans the breadth of expertise and services that WL as a company is uniquely placed to offer. Beyond coordinating the installation of the integrated system and all third-party AV technology throughout the building, we have partnered with BAFTA to provide ongoing technical service and venue support. We are proud to have supported the full scope of this project over many years of progression and are excited for the next stage of our burgeoning relationship with BAFTA.”
BAFTA’s Head of Property, Pauline Campbell added: “We truly appreciate the dedication and input White Light has shown to the redevelopment of 195 Piccadilly. With the addition of state-of-the-art technology, BAFTA’s home and headquarters will continue to celebrate the film, games and television industries, and will be a centre of excellence for future generations to come. Their coordination and installation of a very complex design encompassing many partners and preserving a listed building showcases exactly the troubleshooting skills which left us in no doubt that they were the right company for the job and we look forward to developing our partnership over the years to enable us to fulfil our charitable mission.”
By improving facilities and doubling the building’s capacity, the redevelopment will enable BAFTA to dramatically increase its charitable programme. A world-leading independent arts charity, BAFTA works throughout the year to find and promote the next generation of talent and to break down the barriers that can make it hard to build careers in the creative industries.
