HSE International ISSUE 92 | Page 23

I n October 2011, Feltech successfully pitched to consultants MJC for the audio visual contract to fit out Expedia’s European Headquarters in The Angel Building, Islington. The first stage of the project was completed in December 2012. Feltech were then asked to work on additional rooms on site. Two and a half floors of the building (around 90,000 square feet, designed for 800 staff) are now complete. Scheduling and teamwork was paramount during construction. Feltech’s team of installation engineers and project managers successfully worked alongside the building outfitters, electricians, artists and designers. Together, they worked around the clock to complete the project on time and within budget. The main reception area welcomes visitors with a video wall comprised of 9 46 inch Samsung screens and a Bose speaker system. The screens display a variety of information including commercials and company information. The ‘Market Place’ acts as the main eating and collaborating area for Expedia staff. It also incorporates the IT helpdesk for the office. The area features multiple 40 inch Samsung screens displaying the Feltech installed IPTV systems, alongside desk mounted iPads. A series of recreational areas complement the office space. These include table football and wall mounted 55 inch screens with Xbox 360’s. There are 50 meeting rooms, all with individual themes designed to inspire and motivate the staff. Whether classical or modern, all rooms have key audio visual elements seamlessly integrated into their design. 8 of the rooms are designated video conference suites with Polycom HDX 8000 HDVC solutions and touch panels in dual set ups. These allow for both standard video conferencing and content sharing sessions. The Angel Building houses the control centre for Expedia. com. Three screens were installed by Feltech alongside the necessary technical feeds for that area. These ensure that the technical staff have access to all the information they need 24 hours a day. The European Headquarters of Hotels.com is also housed in the building, occupying the fifth floor. This area is complemented by 5 touch screens embedded into a wall that display an interactive map of the world. F eltech currently have projects underway with the University of Greenwich (TV studios and editing suites), and QEII Conference Centre (AV Cable Infrastructure Upgrades). They also work with Barclays and the Foreign Office. Feltech have accounts with all of the major AV and Broadcast manufacturers and distributors, and work closely with them on all of their projects. Feltech ensure that they design and supply the most fitting, cutting edge technological solutions to their customers. Peter told us more, “Much of our work comes via AV consultants so a close working relationship with them is key to the growth of the business. Most of our work is carried out by our team of in-house engineers. At peak times, however, we will employ a number of known and trusted freelancers to help bolster our “Our record of zero reportable accidents is a testament to the importance that we place on safe working practices throughout the business” HSE INTERNATIONAL 23