Project Type: Arts & Culture Audio Design
Location: Porto, Portugal
Year: 2025
Client: Porto Arts Club
SDS Role: Architectural Audio Consultancy
Project Context
In 2025 Sonic Design Studios collaborated on The Porto Arts Club, the leading [arts and cultural venue](/arts-culture) in Porto, Portugal. Working alongside architectural firm MASSLAB and featuring a dedicated Blue Bar interior designed by Trix and Robert Haussmann, the project demanded an audio system capable of supporting diverse exhibitions, live performances, and multimedia programming.
Design Constraint
The primary design constraint was the historically sensitive nature of the building. We needed to respect the original architectural fabric of the space while simultaneously delivering acoustic clarity, scale, and consistency across multiple distinct zones.
Sonic Concept
Our sonic concept involved designing a carefully distributed [multi-zone sound system](/architectural-audio-consultancy-london). We approached the loudspeaker placement and system tuning as an integral part of the overall spatial design rather than a separate technical requirement.
Integration Approach
During the integration phase we ensured that the sound naturally supports the cultural programme without ever dominating it. We carefully positioned the loudspeakers to work in harmony with the existing architecture rather than fighting against it.
Project Outcome
The outcome is a highly successful collaborative project between Sonic Design Studios, Pequod Acoustics, and 1 Sound USA. The final installation seamlessly delivers premium audio that elevates the venue's prestigious cultural programming.
The Porto Arts Club
Multi-zone architectural audio installation for Porto Arts Club, Porto's leading arts and cultural venue. Bespoke Pequod Acoustics system by Sonic Design Studios.
01main gallery with curated displays and Pequod Acoustics loudspeakers
Context
In 2025 Sonic Design Studios collaborated on The Porto Arts Club, the leading arts and cultural venue in Porto, Portugal. Working alongside architectural firm MASSLAB and featuring a dedicated Blue Bar interior designed by Trix and Robert Haussmann, the project demanded an audio system capable of supporting diverse exhibitions, live performances, and multimedia programming.
02guests gathered for a cultural event in the gallery space
Design constraint
The primary design constraint was the historically sensitive nature of the building. We needed to respect the original architectural fabric of the space while simultaneously delivering acoustic clarity, scale, and consistency across multiple distinct zones.
Sonic concept
Our sonic concept involved designing a carefully distributed multi-zone sound system. We approached the loudspeaker placement and system tuning as an integral part of the overall spatial design rather than a separate technical requirement.
Our sonic concept involved designing a carefully distributed multi-zone sound system.
03curated display table within the exhibition space
Integration moves
During the integration phase we ensured that the sound naturally supports the cultural programme without ever dominating it. We carefully positioned the loudspeakers to work in harmony with the existing architecture rather than fighting against it.
04the Blue Bar interior by Trix and Robert Haussmann with integrated sound design
Outcome
The outcome is a highly successful collaborative project between Sonic Design Studios, Pequod Acoustics, and 1 Sound USA. The final installation seamlessly delivers premium audio that elevates the venue's prestigious cultural programming.
05seating nook with courtyard view and architectural audio integration
