Part of the Frantzén Group, Stockholm’s Brasserie Astoria part of a franchise that also takes in Bangkok, Singapore and London. A former cinema, the venue chose Genelec’s 4000 Series loudspeakers for their sleek aesthetic and to conform to the group’s standards of quality.
Systems integrator High Definition and subcontractor Sound Support worked with the Genelec team to equip the 1,200sq-m establishment with a cutting-edge audio solution.
‘The goal was to cultivate a premium feel throughout the entire restaurant, since this is probably one of the most high-end establishments you can visit in Sweden,’ says Erik Skanderbeck, A/V Sales Manager for Genelec in Sweden. ‘The coverage is incredible – even the toilets have Genelec loudspeakers.
‘The team at Astoria spend a lot of time curating playlists for the restaurant, hence the impetus to invest in a world-class playback system. The Frantzén group has had a positive experience with Genelec loudspeakers before, having installed them in the hallmark restaurant, Frantzén, which holds three Michelin stars, and is also located in Stockholm.’
Upon entry, guests are met by two Genelec 4030s, diametrically positioned in the eaves of the foyer. This sets the tone for the rest of the dining area, as there are 4030s positioned in every corner and hidden among piping in the ceiling. The 4030 is suited to medium-sized commercial installations, and the option of 120 RAL colour finishes allowed Astoria to find a copper brown colourway to match the aesthetic of the interior. For additional low frequency extension and control, three 7040subwoofers are also deployed in the dining area.
‘The attention to detail is simply next level,’ says High Definition’s Micke Fröbom. ‘Just look at the room leading to the wine bar – it’s covered in lacquered gold leaf. To follow this aesthetic, we had to use custom Genelec loudspeakers with a gold leaf finish.’
The lower floor is accessible via an ornate spiral staircase that descends into an underground space filled with more greenery, where a selection of wine and champagne is on offer. There is a higher concentration of loudspeakers in this area for a more energetic ambience – so coverage is provided by ten of the larger 4040 models, complemented with a pair of 7050 subwoofers. Adjacent is a more intimate area called Lilla, where private functions can be hosted. High Definition has equipped a DJ booth on the lower floor with two Genelec 8030 studio loudspeakers – which combine a small footprint with high SPL and excellent low frequency extension.
‘The materials used in the construction of the walls – a mixture of metal brick and steel composite – meant that it was difficult to physically fasten the loudspeakers to the wall,’ Fröbom comments. ‘Additionally, the fact that the restaurant is situated directly under 18 high-class period apartments posed the issue of sound leakage. Genelec provides a wide variety of accessories to assist loudspeaker placement and dispersion, which allowed us to keep the sound contained while still meeting the client’s requirements.’
Being involved with Brasserie Astoria from the early stages of its inception greatly helped ensure that all stakeholders were on the same page. The result is clear, intelligible sound with good coverage, and colours to match the setting.
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