How Avenue Interior Systems transformed Openmarkets Group’s boardroom
At Avenue Interior Systems, we love hearing how our solutions solve acoustic challenges and exceed our clients’ expectations. Working with Openmarkets Group was one such rewarding experience, and the feedback we received was as great as the results we achieved.
Acoustic control doesn’t have to be boring or intimidating! It can be an aesthetically pleasing solution that blends seamlessly with your space. Let’s dive into how we approached this project for one of Australia’s largest retail brokers.
About our client and their acoustic challenge
Openmarkets Group, one of Australia’s leading stock brokers, processes over $2 billion in monthly trades across more than 99,000 accounts. With around 70 employees and a stunning new fit-out in the Sydney CBD, Openmarkets has created an impressive modern workspace.
Yet despite this state-of-the-art design, they faced a major challenge with their boardroom acoustics, which impacted the functionality of their newly installed video conferencing (VC) system. Audio quality was horrible, but the issue wasn’t the equipment – it was the room acoustics. Their new fit-out, designed for style, had overlooked acoustic control elements.
Openmarkets Group reached out to Avenue for a solution to this pressing issue. Their initial enquiry explained,
“We have an office in Sydney with a new spec fit-out. We installed a new VC system in both the boardroom and meeting room, but now the VC system sounds horrible. Our installers suggest it’s due to room acoustics. Is this something you can help with? We need it resolved as soon as possible and are looking for ideas.”
Creating an acoustic solution to address reverberation
The Avenue team began by conducting room modelling to assess the acoustic environment. By analysing the space, we were able to propose a solution that would not only address the sound issues but also complement the sleek design of the fitout.
The rooms featured half-glass, half-Gyprock walls, a carpet tile floor, and a Gyprock ceiling with a perforated section. While visually stunning, these hard surfaces caused soundwaves to bounce around, leading to poor sound absorption and interference with the VC system.
The client was concerned about installing acoustic treatment without guaranteeing improvement, asking, “Is this a common situation you guys see and resolve?” Our team assured Openmarkets Group that the proposed treatment was modelled to meet Australian Standards, ensuring the solution would be effective and provide lasting results.
After presenting our initial solution, Avenue held a site meeting to confirm details such as dimensions and installation logistics. This also allowed the client to select a colour scheme that matched their existing décor.
The complete solution included:
- Calando Acoustic Fabric on the plasterboard walls, custom-coloured to match their paint (Cabbage green).
- Calando Acoustic Panels were installed on the coffered ceiling, providing targeted sound absorption to mitigate the reverberation caused by the hard surfaces.
From the initial consultation to the final installation, Avenue worked closely with our client to ensure that the acoustic treatment solved their problem and enhanced their boardroom’s overall aesthetic.
Results achieved from installing acoustic control
The boardroom’s transformation was immediate and impactful. The feedback we received from Openmarkets Group highlighted how effective our solution had been: “Made such a big difference, especially in big meetings – town halls, quizzes, etc. It’s just amazing; we’re very thankful for it.”
The benefits were clear:
- Increased use of the boardroom for meetings and events.
- Improved meeting facilitation, with participants able to engage more easily.
- Higher participation in presentations and group discussions.
- A significantly better audio-visual experience during video conferences and when playing audio.
The best part of this project? Hearing the positive feedback from Openmarkets Group:
“We recently had the pleasure of working with Avenue Interior Systems on the installation of an acoustic treatment in our boardroom. We had frustrating audio problems from the moment we moved into our premises last year. Thankfully, we were referred to Avenue, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the results. From start to finish, their service was exceptional.”
“Katelyn and Allan demonstrated incredible expertise and professionalism throughout the process. They took the time to understand our specific needs and preferences, flew down to Sydney, and offered insightful recommendations. They were prompt and courteous and communicated with us every step of the way. The installation was executed efficiently, with minimal disruption to our team, and the workspace was left spotless.”
“The contrast between before and after installation has been significant; better yet, it looks great! Avenue’s expertise, quality, and excellent customer service make them a top choice.”
Acoustic solutions that are anything but boring!
At Avenue Interior Systems, we understand that acoustic control doesn’t have to come at the expense of style. In fact, noise control can enhance a space’s beauty while solving functional challenges. If you’re concerned that your space might suffer from poor acoustics but aren’t sure how to fix it, we’re here to help. From custom colour schemes to seamless installations, we work with you to create solutions that look great and perform even better.
Do you have an acoustic challenge? Let’s discuss how we can create an aesthetically pleasing, high-performance solution for your space!
Contact Avenue Interior Systems today on 1300 827 177
