Technology has changed the way we socialise, the way we consume and it’s changing the way we organise and attend events.
Over the last few years, we’ve seen major changes in events and conferences that have really stuck. PowerPoints are being replaced with interactive video walls, video conferencing is more popular than ever and apps are helping to take the awkwardness out of networking.
With this being the case, how do heritage venues meet the growing demand for digitally led conferences and events? And how do they ensure the setup of such modern technology blends seamlessly with the traditional backdrop?
Here, a selection of our member venues explain how they are combining technology with their unique and historic setting.
The Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum has only a one-hour window after the doors close each day to the public to transform its private hire event spaces using the likes of LED screens, projection mapping or gobos.
The Venue Hire team works with an accredited list of suppliers specifically chosen as a result of their extensive experience of loading in and out event technology infrastructure in a way that is sympathetic to the building and the precious exhibits within it.
The more contemporary Darwin Centre within the museum, provides a white, sweeping cocoon wall which perfectly lends itself to stunning projections for corporate dinners, awards ceremonies or product launches – helping clients to fully customise the feel of the space and transform it into their own branded environment for an evening.
Central Hall Westminster
The aim of Central Hall Westminster is to ensure its historic building is complemented with cutting-edge technology. This combination has enabled the venue to host not only high profile events but some of the most technically advanced event productions. By utilising both its own in-house technical team and its in-house production partner, clients can benefit from the most advanced tech and AV facilities available today and receive a stress-free service from the team.
One of the venue's most attractive features to clients is the incredible architecture of the building. In-house production partners White Light have blended modern technology with the historic setting through the use of edgeless projection screens that make images appear to be floating in mid-air. Extensive use of digital distribution technologies and integrated infrastructure for audio and video minimise visible cable runs further blending the technology into the space. Drawing on the state-of-the-art equipment, While Light have introduced subtle branding reinforcement by bringing clients' corporate identities into key features, further enhancing the architecture”.
Guildhall
Guildhall has PA systems built into each event space. The venue worked with its Heritage department to integrate the equipment into the building without impacting on the architecture or aesthetics of the rooms. Most of their clients do not even realise the speakers are there.
Guildhall is also seeing an increase in events requesting projection mapping as a way to enhance the visitor experience. Projection mapping can complement traditional settings extremely well by highlighting architectural features within the space. Some clients have even utilised parts of the venue’s history into the content of the projections.