Case Study: Becketwell Arena, Derby

Architect
Corstophine & Wright
Contractor
Bowmer and Kirkland, MFP Linings
Client
Becketwell Live
Location
Derby, United Kingdom

Becketwell Live is a new dynamic space developed to host concerts, family events, sports, and conferences in the heart of Derby. Featuring a state-of-the-art 3,500 capacity auditorium, the project required a specialised ceiling package that was tailored to different areas within the venue, each with unique acoustic and performance needs.

Challenge

To ensure optimal sound quality and durability, the project required a variety of ceiling solutions across different spaces, including the main arena, office spaces, kitchen areas, and shower and toilet facilities.

For example, the toilet and shower facilities required ceiling materials with high humidity resistance to ensure durability in moist conditions. Meanwhile, the main arena needed black ceiling tiles that not only provided Class A sound absorption but also blended seamlessly into the venue’s aesthetic, creating the ideal atmosphere for audiences to enjoy performances.

Zentia was approached to work alongside architects Corstophine & Wright, and main contractors Bowmer and Kirkland, to find the perfect solution for the arena.

Solution

Zentia was able to provide a range of high-performance ceiling solutions to meet the specific needs of each space, which were then installed by MFP Linings.

Biobloc Acoustic was installed in the kitchen areas to ensure compliance with hygiene and cleanliness standards. Zentia’s Biobloc range of tiles have an additional coating which actively inhibits the growth of micro-organisms and are water repellent, helping to support health and wellbeing within areas that require extra hygiene precautions.

Aquabloc was chosen for the shower and toilet facilities, due to its exceptional resistance to humidity and heat. As one of Zentia’s most durable tiles, it ensures interiors remain bright and fresh over time, making it an ideal solution for moisture-prone environments.

Zentia Fission FT tiles in black were specified for the main arena, providing Class A sound absorption to optimise acoustics while maintaining a dark, distraction-free space. These sleek black ceiling tiles not only enhance depth and ambience but also contribute to an immersive entertainment experience.

Oplia hA was selected for the office areas, offering a Class A sound absorption rating and an 85% light reflectance value. This combination creates a bright and acoustically efficient workspace, promoting productivity and wellbeing among staff.

MFP Linings installed Zentia’s products. They said: “We had a very positive experience working alongside Zentia on this project, from the initial project enquiry, to Zentia providing project specifications which met or exceeded the acoustic and performance requirements. The Zentia team, alongside their distributors, have always delivering outstanding products of high-quality, which is always supported by experience and knowledge of the construction industry. We, the Principal Contractor and the end user are all exceptionally pleased with the completed installation.”

With Zentia’s specialised ceiling solutions, the arena successfully met its acoustic and durability requirements. The result is a cutting-edge, multi-purpose venue that provides an outstanding experience for audiences, performers, and staff alike.

Ideal acoustics in any space

The Oplia Family

With six different products, the Oplia Family delivers ideal acoustics, in any space. Improving audio in and in between spaces, with the highest level of sound absorption and attenuation in our range.

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Healthcare

The Biobloc Family

Suspended ceiling tiles in the Biobloc Family are designed specifically for healthcare environments. With a special coating that actively inhibits the growth of micro-organisms.

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Aquabloc

Aquabloc

Keep interiors bright and fresh in high humidity and heat with Aquabloc, one of our toughest tiles. Perfect for shower areas and businesses that maintain damp, high temperature areas.

Learn more about Aquabloc

Get in touch

Get in touch with our team to discuss any of the products featured in this case study and how they can be utilised in your own projects.