AV Integration for a Luxury Wellness Retreat

Cutting-edge technology and Cotswolds wellness converge at Soho Farmhouse Tateside designs and installs audio, video and lighting solutions across several health and wellness spaces at Cotswold retreat

Soho Farmhouse is a luxurious countryside retreat located in the idyllic Cotswolds, part of the exclusive Soho House collection. Offering a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, it provides a peaceful escape for members. With a focus on relaxation, wellness and creativity, the Farmhouse features cosy cottages, a spa, a farm-to-table restaurant and a range of outdoor activities, making it a sanctuary for those looking to unwind and connect with like-minded individuals.

A Trusted AV Partner for Soho House

London-based integrators Tateside have a long-standing relationship with Soho House and led the recent integration of new AVL systems across both the health and wellbeing areas and the tennis and padel facilities.

“We’re proud to be a preferred technology partner for Soho House, and Soho Farmhouse is a brilliant site to work on,” says Joby Morris, Project Manager at Tateside. “The project was a mix of upgrading AV in several existing spaces, and whole new fit-outs in other areas. The first part of the work was on the health and wellbeing zone, which required a whole new AV system following renovation works. Secondly, the newly installed tennis and padel courts called for the integration of a new audio solution for both the courts and an adjacent outside terrace area.

As with any Soho House project, high-end interiors and a luxury feel to fixtures and fittings were essential. The AV system, which spans from custom digital signage through to bespoke LED lighting, was designed, planned and installed by the Tateside team. Having worked with Soho House across multiple projects, including various Soho Works sites and the exclusive Soho Mews House in London, the team were well aligned with the expectations and preferences for this latest project.

Designing Immersive Audio Experiences Across Wellness Spaces

The AV system in the Boathouse wellbeing area is designed to provide consistent audio experiences across multiple zones. In both the indoor and outdoor pool areas, Bowers and Wilkins AM1 loudspeakers deliver high-quality full-range sound, specifically chosen for their weatherproof capabilities. The sauna and steam room are equipped with Sonance VPXT6R in-ceiling loudspeakers, part of the Sonance Extreme range, designed to withstand high temperatures. The changing rooms are fitted with further Bowers and Wilkins in-ceiling loudspeakers.

This audio journey is integral to the overall experience at the Farmhouse, helping to curate the atmosphere as visitors move throughout the space.

Zoned Audio Control with Networked AV Systems

All audio zones are powered by a QSYS Core backend, which handles audio distribution and control. The system is controlled via Attero Tech Axon C1 wall plates, enabling zoned control over the network. Amplification is provided by Powersoft Unica amps, ensuring performance and reliability.

High-Performance AV and Lighting in the Spin Studio

The most technically rewarding part of the project was the integration of performance audio and dynamic LED lighting in the Soho Farmhouse spin studio, designed to enhance the intensity and atmosphere of high-energy spin sessions. Installed within ceiling-suspended aluminium profiles above the riders and low-level plinths, the lighting effects have been designed to create a fully immersive experience for the spin studio guests. The LED lighting is controlled via MADRIX, allowing for sophisticated effects that can be adjusted to fit the rhythm and energy of the session.

Dynamic LED Lighting and Audio Synchronisation

Each pixel of the LED lighting is individually controllable, so specific areas of the room can be illuminated to create a variety of lighting effects throughout the space. Instructors at the front of the room have quick access to the lighting effects via a Stream Deck controller, pre-programmed by Tateside with different modes that can be quickly switched between during rides. The spin studio also features a high-performance audio setup, with eight Martin Audio CDD8 loudspeakers and Martin Audio SX210 subwoofers, further upping the ante. Two 75” Samsung screens display the ride leaderboard, adding an element of competition and motivation for the participants, whilst a Sennheiser head-worn mic system ensures the instructor can guide riders clearly.

“We’re particularly proud of the bespoke work that went into creating the spin studio,” explains Morris. “All LED elements were commissioned and programmed offsite, to ensure efficient installation, and the result is a customisable lighting experience that is easy for instructors to control. With the TechnoGym bikes and the performance lighting and audio, the result is a really high-end, immersive workout space.

Flexible AV Solutions for Yoga and Pilates Studios

The wellbeing journey continues at the newly built Wellness Barn area, which encompasses two studios and a recovery room, plus a reception area. The studios, dedicated to Yoga and Pilates, are divisible, meaning they can be opened out into one larger space, depending on class size. The AV setup in these studios is thoughtfully designed for flexibility and ease of use, with audio provided by white Martin Audio CDD8s and SX112 subwoofers, all discreetly integrated into the studio joinery for a fittingly minimal aesthetic

Hidden Projection and Video Distribution

One of the standout features of these studios is the hidden projection system. Integrated within the wall void in each studio is an Epson PU 8500-lumen projector, paired with a motorised 124″ projector screen installed within the timber-clad ceiling, offering projection capabilities for different class needs. The studios are divided by a collapsible wall, which can be opened or closed. Q-SYS handles the connection between the two rooms, with modes selected through an iPad touchscreen. Video distribution is powered by a Blustream video-over-IP solution to distribute visuals across both studios. HDMI/USB-C wall plates allow instructors to select whether to display visuals on one or both projectors, giving them control over the presentation with minimal effort.

AV Integration for Recovery and Relaxation Areas

In the recovery room, a pair of Bowers & Wilkins AM1 loudspeakers provides high-quality background audio, helping to contribute to the tranquil atmosphere and extend the sound journey.

Whilst the wellbeing areas were nearing completion, a new area, dedicated to racket sports, also required integration from the Tateside team. Faced with a short timescale as opening day approached, the team worked with the client to design and implement the system quickly and efficiently. Audio only, the scope required sound systems across several covered tennis and padel courts, and an outside terrace and bar area.

For the courts, a steel framework allowed for the mounting of Bowers & Wilkins AM1s to pillars, four units per court, to provide background audio during matches. The terrace and outdoor bar area, complete with a DJ booth, was installed with two Martin Audio CDD8s and an Audac ultra-compact 10 architectural infrasubwoofer, which is cleverly recessed into the side of the building for low-end extension.

Networked AV Infrastructure and Centralised Control

A reliable Netgear AV-over-IP backbone provides distribution of audio and video signals across the entire site. Several network-connected distributed Q-SYS Cores handle the central control of audio, managing multiple zones and allowing for easy volume and input adjustments. Blustream’s video-over-IP solution distributes visuals to projectors in areas like the yoga studios, whilst audio is routed via Dante. Wall plates provide users with a familiar point of interaction with the technology.

Bespoke AV Design and Digital Signage Elements

“Aside from the AV in the main spaces, there were some nice bespoke elements too, such as the Videri canvas screen, responsible for digital signage graphics in the main reception area,” explains Morris. “It’s a 34” square screen that displays a canvas of nine square images within it. We commissioned a custom brass grille that sits on top of it as a design feature, and a nod to the Soho House brand logo.”

Delivering Seamless AV Integration Through Planning and Collaboration

From laid-back sauna sessions to padel court competitions, Tateside’s integration of audio, video and lighting technology throughout the various zones has equipped Soho Farmhouse with the tools to create unforgettable wellbeing experiences for its clientele. “The scale of this project has required a lot of careful planning and collaboration with other contractors,” reflects Morris. “Through off-site programming and making technical calculations and 3D renders in advance, the integration went smoothly, and we’re pleased to deliver another standout project for the Soho House group.”

Discover how Tateside can transform your spaces with seamless AV integration. Get in touch to bring high-performance audio, video, and lighting solutions to your next project.