High performance industrial aesthetic

Less a ceiling, more a perforated backdrop: that was the design intention behind the high-performance ceiling system designed by SAS in partnership with Sheppard Robson for BBC Wales’ new facility in Cardiff.

Over 5000m² of SAS International’s acoustic metal hybrid raft ceiling systems provide a distinctive aesthetic suited to a 21st century digital broadcast environment.

The 26,000m² broadcast centre and HQ houses 1,000 production and support staff. It is an exemplar, BREEAM Outstanding building, setting new standards for innovative, flexible and cost-effective workplaces.

ID:SR, the internal design arm of architect Sheppard Robson was commissioned to design the interior of this Foster + Partners building. Teams from BBC workplace and SAS International contributed to the design of a solution that combines high acoustic performance with stunning modern aesthetic.

Hybrid metal acoustic rafts, made up of varying sized panels supported on a concealed grid with bespoke upstands, are suspended between the rows of chilled beams that supply cooling to the office floors. Light fittings in a distinctive cruciform arrangement are suspended beneath the ceiling.

Curved seating areas are accommodated with disc-shaped rafts combined with a bespoke edge detail forming a distinctive feature area on each floor. Different areas of this multi-purpose workspace are defined by colours – with the SAS ceiling components specified to complement the shades of the chilled beams and other design features.

Sound is managed with perforated panels combined with acoustic insulation throughout the office space and production booths. The TV studios, with exceptional acoustic requirements, are lined with SAS International’s WP10 metal acoustic wall panel system.

A wide range of SAS International products were specified around the facility, bringing the designer’s vision to life. Mesh metal ceilings provide texture around the building entrances and lobby areas while acoustic baffles in the main walkway give effective sound absorption without compromising the open ceiling design.

The ability of SAS International to work in collaboration with the architect to develop a bespoke solution was the critical factor in ensuring the success of the ceiling installation.