Designed to offer a ‘refined and mature atmosphere’, the new Soho Mews House reimagines the early days of the Soho House brand and promises next-level exclusivity with membership extended only to the longest-standing of the brand’s patrons on an invitation-only basis.
London-based integrator Tateside led the A/V integration at the new premises, strengthening a long-standing relationship as a technology partner of Soho House across all its sites in London. ‘We were approached with a design-led brief to install a high-quality audio system to match the high-end interiors of new Mews House,’ says Tateside Technical Director, Jack Cornish. ‘We felt that 1 Sound was a perfect match for this, so we designed a system based around their custom-finished loudspeakers.’ The project included providing audio for the ground, first and second floors, including the reception area, Piano Bar, a main dining room and the Half Moon Bar. 1 Sound’s wood-stained finished and custom-coloured loudspeakers fit the bill when it came to ensuring the interiors remained undisturbed.
In the Piano Bar – which has already hosted the likes of Jools Holland and Macy Gray – Tateside opted for 1 Sound’s C6 loudspeakers and WSub45s, which are used for both acoustic Piano and DJ performances. The piano was fitted with DPA microphones, the for a crystal-clear pick-up that befits the upmarket venue interior. To keep things simple, a Skaarhoj motorised fader bank was installed, allowing basic microphone control without a mixing desk or the need for a sound tech on site. 1 Sound monitors in a matching wood stain finish were placed on the piano and the DJ booth.
Upstairs in the main dining room, Tateside opted for 1 Sound’s compact C4 coaxial loudspeakers and MiniSub5 subwoofers, the latter installed under banquette seats. ‘In the private dining room, MiniSub5s were positioned above the draped fabric ceilings, allowing us to integrate high-quality audio with a small footprint and minimal visual impact,’ Cornish notes.
The Half Moon Bar, a live performance area on the second floor, makes use of 1 Sound Tower column cardioid loudspeaker systems, complemented by further C6 units and WSub45 wall subwoofers. Wood stain and cream finishes continue the interior theme, whilst the cardioid pattern of the column systems is effective at controlling noise on the stage in such a tight space, boasting -20 dB rear attenuation. ‘In the performance space, the loudspeakers are clearly on display, but still integrate nicely thanks to custom finishes,’ Cornish says. ‘The wood stain matches the joinery, so they naturally look the part.’
A Q-Sys control backend enables the rooms support multiple uses, switching from DJ mode to live performance mode, which includes audio EQ and automatic time alignment. DMX show lighting is tied in through Q-Sys, with control via an iPad or simplified switching via Pragma wall panels on each floor.
‘For us, this was a real passion project where we were able to implement high-performance, great-looking products, play with custom colours and design something that looks as good as it sounds,’ Cornish says. ‘We’re proud to continue to support all Soho House sites across London with our managed services team.’