www.audiencesystems.com
About audience systems Who Are We? Audience Systems are the market-leading provider of seating in the UK, exporting to 40 countries worldwide through an established and knowledgeable network of distributors. Since 1972, we have been working with clients to design flexible and innovative seating solutions for their venues. From school theatres to international arenas, our team of consultants, engineers, project managers and service technicians have a wealth of experience which is unrivalled in the industry. Why Work With Us? Quality, Safety, Reliability We know that these values are critical for our customers, so we put them at the heart of everything we do. High standards of design and manufacture ensure that we meet or exceed international standards for safety and design. Our design approach, and the quality of materials used, mean that our products have an exceptionally low maintenance requirement and therefore a low cost over their lifetime. And the skill of our service technicians ensures that your seating will look and feel as new for many years to come. Expert Service Audience Systems work with clients from the earliest possible stage to ensure that they really do get the best from their investment. Our consultation service is free, and includes site visits and surveys, CAD design and layout drawings, as well as advice on the latest regulations and safety issues. Our support for customers continues long after the sale, with dedicated project managers to oversee the installation, and our maintenance and spares team on call whenever you need them. +44 (0) 1373 865050 1
WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY We chose to work with Audience Systems because of their flexibility in terms of the telescopic system, the speed of their installation and the quality of their product. I am very happy with the result. Michael Lischer RIBA - Principal, Sport Concepts (Liverpool Arena) First stop for my future requirements. John McGettrick - Michael Coleman Heritage Centre Brilliant value for money - everybody is pleased with the result. Would recommend without a shadow of a doubt. Geoff Old - Facilities Officer, Torquay Museum Thoroughly good, well-managed project - on time and to budget. I would certainly work with them again. Roger Lynch - Senior Site Manager, Geoffrey Osborne Ltd From conception through to completion, Audience Systems maintained the highest standards of professionalism. Ed Woodd - American Community School We are extremely impressed with the way in which the installation was executed. The process has been professionally managed from the start, and the whole team have provided a first class seating system. Bob Sherer - Felsted School I am very impressed with the system. The company are reliable and established - I highly recommend them. Michael Gatterell - Arts and Events Manager, The Capitol, Horsham The quality of service was very good from the first correspondence through pricing, surveying and installation. The client (school) was also impressed with the service. Tom McMillan - City of Edinburgh Council I m really pleased with the seating - it looks great. It s the icing on the cake of the whole installation. Joe Baker - Lower Farm Primary School I chose Audience Systems because of flexibility and reliability, and the wheelchair access that other systems wouldn t have included. Audience Systems were happy to talk over any problems one-to-one. Chris Mallinson - Head of Performing Arts, William Allitt School It was a very difficult installation into an existing structure, but Audience Sytems performed well under difficult circumstances and were proactive. Jason Bancks - Interior PLC 2 3
TX TELESCOPIC PLATFORM SYSTEM Why Choose Retractable Seating? For venues of all sizes, the aim is the same: flexibility. Retractable seating helps our customers to achieve that goal by allowing their venue to be used for several functions - be it a school hall that doubles as a performance venue, a lecture theatre that can be transformed into an exam room, or an arena with hockey, basketball and concert configurations. Why Choose TX? Audience Systems pioneered the use of telescopic seating in a number of countries and have remained the industry leaders. Strength Our TX Telescopic Platform System is based on a structure that is far more robust than the industry standard - strong enough even for seismic areas. The platforms are built from high grade materials and are fitted with an all-steel alignment system to ensure smooth, reliable opening. We build our systems to last, so our bolted structure is designed to be adjustable over its lifetime to compensate for small changes in the floor. Health And Safety All our telescopic systems are CE marked, so you can be assured that we put the safety of your audiences and operators at the very centre of our design process. Lifetime Care We also offer a comprehensive service and maintenance package to ensure continuing safety and reliability over the system s lifetime. Providing this is carried out, we will guarantee the telescopic understructure for ten years. A separate brochure with more details of the TX Telescopic Platform System is available on request. 4
tx telescopic PLAtFoRm system Retractable System Types Chair Types 4 basic types of system are available to suit different storage requirements: Fixed - platforms stay in situ when closed. Recessed - platforms are configured for storage in a recess or under a balcony - usually behind their open position (1). Mobile / Travelling - platforms are configured for storage in a separate location. Mobile systems are transported on hydraulic trucks (2), whereas travelling systems are driven to their stored location via a hand controller. TX comes with a wide range of chairs and benches. From sports centres to theatres, there s a chair for every venue. 1 2 3 Further possible adaptations include: Tapered systems for corner locations. Multiple row rises and depths for optimum sightlines. Double depth system (two rows of chairs per platform) for rooms with low ceilings (3). T-Access indents to provide integrated front row seating for wheelchair users (4). Espace 628 Espace 628T Espace 628 High Back Espace 628 Artist Accolade Studio 2 4 5 6 Operational Options Zenith Alpha Two platform opening/closing mechanisms are available to suit different venue types and budgets: Campus Fold Down Sports Seat Benches Power operated with a simple hand controller operating a friction drive (5). Manually operated using pull handles (6). A partial opening option is available, allowing any number of rows to be opened and securely locked in place (7). See our chair pages for more details. 7 8 9 There are also two alternative methods of folding the unoccupied chairs down onto the platforms: Automatically as platforms close (8). Manually (prior to retraction) in groups of up to fourteen (9). Options and Accessories 10 11 12 Various options can be added for enhanced aesthetics or safety: Decks finished in non-slip phenolic coating or carpet. Decorative fascias to disguise platforms when closed (10). A choice of aisle lighting systems - choose from standard (11) or LED (12). Safety railing which is removed (15), telescopes (13) or folds away as the platforms close. Cosmetic drapes (14) and panels (15) to disguise understructure. 13 14 15 6 7
MATRIX SEATING What is Matrix? Matrix seating is unique to Audience Systems. It s a removable seating system for flat floor areas, used to give extra capacity in front of a telescopic system or to provide seating for arena floors. It offers several advantages over other options available for flat floors, such as stacking or folding chairs, or individual removable chairs. Benefits of Matrix Fast turnaround times Chairs are grouped together on beams for faster installation and removal. The groups of chairs slot into bars on the floor, which do not need to be fixed down - further reducing installation time. Both chairs and floor bars stack on trolleys for easy storage and transportation. Safety With the seat pans tipped up, wide, safe walkways are created between rows of chairs. The rigid system of floorbars means that the rows don t move or snake. Chairs are grouped together to reduce the number of lifting actions performed by installers. No permanent fixings are needed - leaving no trip points in place when the seating is removed. Chair Types The Matrix System will accommodate all our multipurpose chair models - so you can combine it seamlessly with fixed and/or retractable seating. Espace 628 Espace 628T Espace 628 High Back Espace 628 Artist Accolade Studio 2 Zenith Alpha See our chair pages for more details. 8
ESPACE 628 Introducing Espace 628 Elegant and compact, the Espace 628 family of chairs is the ideal choice for multipurpose venues - from school halls to lecture theatres, conference centres and arenas. All the Espace range of chairs are based on a simple yet effective principle - when the seat is vacated, the back, seat and arm all swing into an upright position to form a neat, spaceefficient closed profile. Spacious walkways between the seats mean that spectators can pass comfortably - and, if necessary, evacuate promptly. All Espace 628 chairs can be permanently fixed to a floor or tier riser, deployed on TX Telescopic Platforms, configured for use with the Matrix System or used in a combination of ways to seat an entire venue. See opposite page for basic models. See over the page for enhanced versions. Espace 628 Espace 628T Espace 628 High Back Espace 628 Artist ABS armrests* Timber armrests* Upholstered armrests* Curved timber armrests* Plastic panel for outer back Plastic panel for under seat Show wood panel for outer back Seat numbers / aisle letters *Espace 628 chairs are not available without armrests. 10 11
ESPACE 628 ACCOLADE & STUDIO 2 Espace 628T Accolade An ideal chair for multipurpose auditoria, the Espace 628T has a writing tablet which can be kept neatly folded under the seat when not required. The tablet has an anti-panic mechanism: it will move fluently aside if the spectator suddenly rises from their seat. The latest in our range of upholstered chairs, the Accolade represents quality, durability and value. Its tough credentials make it the perfect choice for demanding environments such as arenas and schools. Plastic panels can be added to the outside of the back and/or seat to protect the upholstery from damage, be it accidental or otherwise. The chair also comes with optional arms in ABS plastic, timber or upholstered finish. Espace 628 High Back This chair retains all the advantages of the original Espace 628 design but has the added comfort and luxury of a high back. The chair can also be supplied with a folding writing tablet, making it an ideal choice for conference auditoria. Studio 2 Espace 628 Artist A variation on the Espace 628 with thick, contoured foams, the Artist still folds to a compact closed envelope - making it suitable for use on retractable platforms. Ideal for performing arts centres, the Artist mixes practicality and classic elegance. Wooden armrests add a real touch of class. A simple but comfortable all-round chair, ideal for schools and studio theatres, with optional armrests in plastic, timber or upholstered finish. Both Studio 2 and Accolade chairs can be permanently fixed to a floor or tier riser, deployed on TX Telescopic Platforms, configured for use with the Matrix System or used in a combination of ways to seat an entire venue. 12 13
ZENITH & ALPHA CAMPUS & ENCORE 434 Zenith Campus Fold Down An ergonomically contoured, high density, UV stabilised polyethylene chair, blow moulded with a cavity inside for strength, warmth and comfort. Two models are available - one for indoors, and one for poolside or outdoor applications. The outdoor version has a weather-proof coating to the steelwork, and a robust counterweight tipping mechanism instead of springs. Closed The Campus Fold Down System was developed by Audience Systems as a solution to a particular concern of schools and colleges - the pressure on space. The system allows a complete lecture theatre to be quickly transformed into an open space suitable for exams, seminars or any other activity. The writing surfaces simply fold down with the chairs to form a fascia in front of the closed platforms. A range of chair options is available - high density polyethylene, upholstered with plastic panels, or fully upholstered. Open The Campus Fold Down system is suitable for use with the TX Platform System only. Alpha An alternative plastic chair design with all the features of the Zenith - including an outdoor version. Encore 434 The Encore 434 is an adaptable auditorium chair suitable for VIP areas and conference centres, and built to be tough enough for arena environments. The chair is available with timber or upholstered arms, timber or upholstered end panels and various backrest shapes including an optional high back. Both indoor and outdoor versions of these chairs can be permanently fixed to a floor or tier riser; the indoor versions can also be used with TX Telescopic Platforms or the Matrix System. The Encore 434 can be permanently fixed to a floor or tier riser. 14 15
BENCHES and Accessories Maintenance and spares Benches Adaptable bench systems really help to make the most of a multipurpose area. A wide variety of styles is available, whether timber, plastic or upholstered. The upholstered bench has an optional backrest, which is folded down before the system retracts. The plastic bench is now also available with individual backrests. Why Service Your Seating? Throughout its lifetime, any seating system will be subject to wear and tear, whether accidental or otherwise. Audience Systems seating is designed to require low maintenance, however we still recommend an annual service for your complete peace of mind.* Retractable seating in particular should be regularly checked and serviced. Damage to handrails or telescopic understructure may not always be obvious, but should be detected and remedied as early as possible to ensure the safety of your audience and staff. Why Audience Systems? Our knowledgeable service engineers have access to genuine replacement parts, and any additional seating, railing or other accessories you may require for your system. They can also offer advice on the latest legislation and training for your own staff in the safe operation of your seating. We were very impressed by the dedication shown and the speed at which our needs were dealt with and resolved. Jonh Bennett-Jones - Ysgol Brynhyfryd, Mold On completion of all safety-critical work, we will issue a Manufacturer s Safety Certificate, which will help you to comply with insurance requirements and building regulations. Accessories *In some high-use environments, two services per year are advised. Loose seating For additional capacity with total flexibility, our Venue range contains a variety of stacking and folding chairs. Trolleys are available for easy transportation and storage. Staging Why not make your staging as adaptable as your seating? Audience Systems supplies a staging system consisting of 2m x 1m modules with optional height adjustability leaving you free to change both the shape and size of your stage to suit the performance. I am very pleased with your service and would recommend you. Your staff have been excellent. Chris Cook - Longdean School, Hemel Hempstead I am more than happy with the service I ve received for 18 years now - a professional and courteous service with both prompt and expert engineers. Mr B McDonald - James Allen School, London 16 17
EDUCATION The Education Experts Audience Systems really are the education experts, having installed seating in over two hundred schools and colleges worldwide in the last five years alone. Our Clients A small selection of schools and universities with whom Audience Systems have worked: We know how to get the most from your space and your budget and will work with you from the design stage to ensure a smooth installation, with minimum disruption to school life. We have a number of flexible options which enable you to make the most of halls, gyms, dance studios and theatres. If retractable seating is the answer, our TX Telescopic Platform System with its heavy duty understructure is perfect for a demanding school environment. Matrix seating meanwhile is ideal for flat floors. Completely removable, it locks into sturdy rows with wide, safe seatways. Whatever audience seating your school requires, from auditorium chairs to loose stacking chairs and durable plastic seating for poolside use, Audience Systems has a practical, lowmaintenance solution. And our comprehensive servicing programme will ensure that your seating will be on top form for years to come. North America Kaufman Hall, UCLA, CA Ontario College of Art and Design Ryerson Theatre School, Toronto UK St Matthew s Academy, Ayrshire The International School of Aberdeen Daniel Stewart s & Melville College, Edinburgh Williamwood High School, East Renfrewshire University of York St Wilfrid s High School, West Yorkshire Doncaster College Manchester Metropolitan University Keele University Solihull School, West Midlands St William Ramsay School, Buckinghamshire University of Hertfordshire City University, London Bridge Academy, London Dorothy Stringer School, Brighton Richard Challoner School, Surrey Barton Peveril College, Hampshire Guernsey College of Further Education International Griffith College, Dublin Breilia Skole, Norway Kirkelund Skole, Norway Lagstad Skola, Finland Mannheim Music College, Germany Budapest College, Hungary Universidad de Valencia, Spain Ontario College of Art and Design, Canada Ryerson Theatre School, Canada UCLA, USA Women s College, Dubai Al Siji School for Boys, Dubai Tanglin Trust School, Singapore University of Southern Queensland, Australia 18 19
AUDITORIA It s a simple concept. The more flexible the auditorium, the more revenue it can generate. Audience Systems specialise in multipurpose auditoria of all sizes, from black box studio theatres to international conference centres. Our range of seating is designed to be used in all areas of the auditorium, so the same chair design can be used throughout, whether on retractable platforms, fixed tiering or a flat floor. Our loose chairs also closely complement the range. Audience Systems have an unquestionable pedigree in the theatre world, having provided seating to prestigious venues such as the Royal Albert Hall, Glyndebourne Opera House and The Royal Court Theatre. Our Clients A selection of performing arts clients from around the world: Colorado Convention Center, USA Proctor s Theatre, New York, USA Ideastream Theatre, Cleveland, USA Max M Fisher Music Centre, Detroit, USA Old Forge Arts Centre, New York, USA Harbourfront Centre, Toronto, Canada Osprey Arts Centre, Shelburne, Canada Windsor Casino, Ontario, Canada BBC TV Studios, UK Royal Albert Hall, UK Royal Shakespeare Theatre, UK Glyndebourne Opera House, UK Bournemouth International Centre, UK The Sage, Gateshead, UK The Lowry, Manchester, UK Royal Court Theatre, UK Waterfront Hall, Belfast, UK Edinburgh Festival Theatre, UK Manchester Concert Hall, UK Theatre Amstelveen, Netherlands Theatre de Manege, Mons, Belgium Copenhagen Opera House, Denmark Tonsberg Kulturhus, Norway Royal Caribbean Cruise Liners, Finland National Theatre, Iceland Reval Hotel Conference Centre, Riga, Latvia Palacio de Villahermosa, Madrid, Spain Riyadh Marriott Hotel, Saudi Arabia Singapore History Museum Singapore National Library Building Australian Embassy, Indonesia Millennium Arts Project, Melbourne, Australia 20 21
STADIA & ARENAS Audience Systems, as a leading supplier of seating to arenas worldwide, understand both the operational and financial pressures of running an international arena. We can supply the entire package of seating for your audience - with solutions designed for durability, low maintenance and fast turnaround times. Both our TX Telescopic Platform System and our Matrix System (for the arena floor) are designed for fast, safe deployment. TX platforms open and close under power, with chairs folding down automatically as the platforms retract. Where needed, the platforms can be lifted and moved on fork lift trucks. Matrix chairs are grouped together to reduce installation time and effort, and are simply slotted into floor bars with no awkward fixings. Large numbers can be stored and transported together on trolleys or stillages. Our specialist products are backed up with experienced technical support from the earliest stage of the arena design - from consultation and CAD design, through to project management and after-sales service. Our Clients Some of our major installations: MEN Arena, Manchester Color Line Arena, Hamburg, Germany Khalifa Sports City, Doha, Qatar National Indoor Arena, UK Al Sadd Stadium, Doha, Qatar Wembley Arena, UK Arena Riga, Latvia Hartwall Arena, Helsinki, Finland Oberhausen Arena, Germany National Exhibition Centre, UK Liverpool Echo Arena, UK Westpac Centre, Christchurch, New Zealand Sports Complex Jubilee, St Petersburg, Russia Pheonix Sports Hall, Debrecen, Hungary Geneva Arena, Switzerland Saku Suurhall, Tallinn, Estonia Trusts Stadium, Waitakere, New Zealand Cardiff International Arena, UK Braehead Arena, Glasgow, UK O 2 Arena, UK Edgar Sports Centre, Dunedin, New Zealand Martini Plaza, Groningen, Netherlands 16,500 seats 14,000 seats 14,000 seats 13,500 seats 13,000 seats 12,500 seats 10,000 seats 10,000 seats 10,000 seats 8,000 seats 7,500 seats 7,000 seats 6,500 seats 6,500 seats 6,500 seats 6,000 seats 5,000 seats 5,000 seats 4,000 seats 3,300 seats 3,000 seats 3,000 seats 22 23
SPORT GALLERY For sporting venues, Audience Systems can provide a wide range of indoor and outdoor seating, as well as chairs suitable for swimming pool environments. Retractable systems are popular with sports hall managers who want to turn practice courts into spectator space. Our TX Telescopic Platform System can be truncated to set the audience at a good viewing height from the game. Meanwhile, bench systems provide flexible seating with fast turnaround times. We are happy to provide seating for any size of venue, from a few fixed seats by a pool to a full set of retractable seating for a large multipurpose venue. 24 www.audiencesystems.com
Audience Systems Ltd Washington Road, West Wilts Trading Estate, Westbury, Wiltshire, BA13 4JP, UK Telephone +44 (0)1373 865050 Fax +44 (0)1373 827545 Email sales@audiencesystems.com Web www.audiencesystems.com