Grace MidtownAtlanta, Georgia
Project Overview
Main Auditorium | AVL Design and Build
Budget: $400,000
Maximum Seating: 600
Services: Audio, video, and theatrical lighting integration; infrastructure design; systems design and integration; distributed audio; future infrastructure planning.
Executive Summary
Grace Midtown Warehouse Renovation
Located off North Avenue in the heart of downtown Atlanta, Grace Midtown has quickly emerged as a thriving worship community for college-aged young adults. As a result of this growth, the community needed a way to expand into a single-story warehouse located on their existing property. In addition to requiring extensive structural engineering, this project involved ambient light management and multi-purpose equipment that would be used beyond Sunday morning gatherings.
As the property is often used by volunteer production staff and/or rented out as an event space, “ease-of-use” was a driving need. The result was a uniquely adaptable environment that can account for multiple stage setups (including an ‘in-the-round” experience) and can be successfully used by nearly anyone.
Integration Process
Discovery
During discovery, it was determined that “flexibility” would be main focus in the final designs of this space. We learned that, while the room could be used for rentals on Saturdays (for example, weddings), it absolutely had to be ready for church service Sunday morning. Regardless of what event had happened the previous evening, the client wanted to be able to reset the room for an ‘in-the-round’ morning gathering. Multi-function and adaptibility were going to be the major drivers when it came to production gear and technology selections.
Design
From discovery to commissioning*, the overall project took just under a year. Renovated spaces have their own challenges and this lead to some significant construction delays. The new auditorium was meant to go into a single story warehouse with low ceilings. The client wanted a high-performance system – the only solution was to cut the middle of the building’s roof line and raise it up to a second story. The end-result was a beautiful glass-walled ceiling that not only allowed for the the client’s desired goal, but also added an incredible aesthetic to the property.
Using an integrated networking solution, our team designed a modular system. The ceiling has a four-truss-rig controlled, simply, by a network cable and a power cable. There are multiple locations around the room that allow for a mobile “front-of-house” (essentially there is no “front-of-house”, production can be staged wherever is most ideal for the event).
Implement
Every system during the construction goes through a Value Engineering (VE) process. The original plan called for a lighting system with four electrical motors. This was cut from the design and supplemented with a manual chain hoist rig. However, in consultation with the client, we decided to pre-install all the infrastructure for a future integration of the motorised system (conduit, electric motors and adequate space at the breaker box).
Due to the constuction and renovation delays, the entire system was pre-fabricated in our warehouse. When the installation window was open, this allowed our team to quickly transport the infrastructure and complete the install in time for the scheduled launch.
Support
We continue to support with Grace Midtown through phone, remote access, and occasionally performing service calls and trainings.
Our most recent call involved creating a new stage location template that was not in the initial scope. The system adapted flawlessly only needing simple adjustments to the PA.
Through the relationship with Grace Midtown, we have begin working with other locations in the Grace Family of Churches.
* ‘Commissioning’ is our term for deploying a turnkey solution. Our team promises a successful launch by being on site for the first use after installation. This includes a program for all volunteers and staff to received training from our skilled team of production professionals. We pride ourselves on making sure our systems operate flawlessly and are on-site at every launch event.
Technology Highlights
Allen and Heath D Live Audio System
DNB WS PA
4 Truss Manual Chain Hoist System
Martin MH6CT for Primary Lighting
Integrated existing equipment as possible for IEM and Talent
6.5’x10′ 2.9 mil pixel pitch Refresh LED screen
What we do.
Pendley Productions is a design and systems integration firm, providing house of worship and corporate clients with industry leading performance technology solutions.
AVL Master planning
Our approach to system design is based on creating systems that meet long-term vision, and not just the immediate need.
AVL Design and Build
For clients who are ready to start, or currently working on projects requiring audio, video, and lighting services.
System Tuning and Optimization
Our trained professionals optimize your system while creating an even, balanced sound for your audience.
Wireless Frequency Coordination
We ensure that your wireless technology is properly functioning, syncing correctly, and up to date.
AVL Master planning
Our approach to system design is based on creating systems that meet long-term vision, and not just the immediate need.
AVL Design and Build
For clients who are ready to start, or currently working on projects requiring audio, video, and lighting services.
System Tuning and Optimization
Our trained professionals optimize your system while creating an even, balanced sound for your audience.
Wireless Frequency Coordination
We ensure that your wireless technology is properly functioning, syncing correctly, and up to date.