Wave Dynamics GuidesAudio Visual Design for Buildings Explained
What independent audio visual (AV) design involves for offices, schools, hotels and venues, from requirements and coordination to specification and commissioning.
In Short
Audio visual design is the planning and specification of the sound, display, video conferencing and control systems in a building, so they work reliably and suit the way the spaces are used. Independent AV design coordinates these systems with the architecture, acoustics and building services from early design through to commissioning.
- Starts with how each space will be used and by whom.
- Covers displays, audio, conferencing, control and infrastructure.
- Coordinates power, data, containment and mounting with the design team.
- Ends with testing and commissioning against the specification.
Why Design AV Independently?
When AV is left to the end of a project, screens end up in the wrong place, cabling is missing and rooms sound poor. Independent design means the client gets a specification based on their needs rather than a supplier’s product range, with fair, comparable tenders.
What AV Design Covers
- Boardrooms, meeting rooms and huddle spaces.
- Auditoria, lecture theatres and performance spaces.
- Classrooms and learning spaces.
- Hotel function rooms and hospitality spaces.
- Background music, paging and digital signage.
How It Fits with Acoustics
Good AV depends on good room acoustics. A meeting room with long reverberation or noisy ventilation will make even the best microphones and speakers struggle. Designing AV and acoustics together gives rooms that sound right in person and on calls.
Delivery Stages
We work through brief and requirements, concept design, coordination drawings for the design team, detailed specification and tender documents, then review installation and commission the systems before handover.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should AV design start?
At concept or early design stage, so containment, power, data and structural support for screens and speakers are included in the base build.
Do you supply AV equipment?
No. We provide independent design and specification, then help the client appoint an installer through tender.
This guide gives general information and is not a substitute for project-specific advice. Requirements change, so always check the current regulations, guidance and your planning conditions. Ask our team about your project.
Jon Maguire (BSc Hons MIOA) brings over 8 years of expertise in acoustic consultancy, specialising in environmental acoustics with a focus on 3D modelling, assessments, and detailed design for industrial, commercial, and energy projects. He has lead noise assessments for key clients while thriving in multidisciplinary environments. Jon’s diplomatic communication skills are ideal for stakeholder consultation.
Jack is a Field Engineer at Wave Dynamics, supporting the delivery of environmental monitoring and acoustic consultancy services through detailed on-site fieldwork. He has hands-on experience in noise monitoring, vibration monitoring, and dust monitoring across a variety of infrastructure, construction, and environmental projects. Jack is involved in the setup, operation, and maintenance of monitoring equipment, ensuring accurate data collection in line with relevant standards and project requirements. He works closely with consultants and project teams, providing reliable field support that underpins high-quality assessments and reporting.
Aidan is the Director for all U.K Operations and has worked in multiple industries including for clients in the UK and internationally operating in the residential, industry, healthcare, education, and construction sectors.
