Creating flexible audio zones for food, drinks and flight prep
Sanfords: UK Airport Locations
This case study explores how MSL delivered seamless, multi-zone audio systems for Sanfords at both Luton and Glasgow Airports – balancing atmosphere, discretion, and security compliance across high-footfall airport environments.
About Sanfords
Sanfords is a contemporary bar and restaurant brand operating in major UK airports, offering travellers a chance to unwind, eat, drink, and enjoy live sports in a modern setting. Their locations blend the premium feel of an upmarket lounge with the high turnover of a busy terminal – making them perfect candidates for intelligent AV installations that don’t compromise on quality.
MSL were brought in to support the rollout of Sanfords’ newest venues, beginning with Luton and followed by Glasgow, each with slightly different requirements – but the same core goal: create a vibrant, dynamic audio experience that works effortlessly in a regulated airport environment.
The Project
At both sites, the aim was to create a welcoming, flexible space with audio zones tailored to the architecture and customer flow. This meant ensuring easy day-to-day operation by non-technical staff, with the ability to adapt volume and source settings depending on time of day, crowd level, and event use (e.g. sports broadcasts or busy travel periods).
In Luton, the venue is split across two levels: a casual downstairs area and a mezzanine-level space that brings a livelier, bar-style vibe. Glasgow offers a similar setup, with the addition of more discreet AV integration requirements due to terminal layout.
The brief demanded a design that delivered excellent coverage across both sites, with localised control, but no unnecessary complexity.
The Challenges
Airport AV projects come with unique operational and regulatory challenges. For Luton and Glasgow, these included:
- Airside access: All engineers and equipment had to pass airport security, with full DBS checks, tool logging, and vetting. Each screwdriver in and out was logged – a logistical hurdle that made every hour count.
- Discreet aesthetics: Venues needed high-performance sound systems that didn’t visually dominate. Speakers had to blend into white ceilings and cable trays, especially in visible areas like seating zones and open mezzanines.
- Control of audio bleed: In open-plan environments like terminals, sound needed to stay tightly within the venue footprint to avoid disruption – particularly in mezzanine areas overlooking public zones.
- Speed and compliance: As part of a larger build process, MSL needed to coordinate with multiple trades, stick to strict timelines, and ensure integration with essential airport systems like security announcements and fire alarm overrides.
The Solution
MSL designed a distributed audio system that used high-quality Martin Audio loudspeakers to deliver rich, balanced sound while maintaining visual discretion.
(While this goes into depth about the Luton project, a similar set-up was created at the Glasgow location)
Ground Floor
Martin Audio CDD6 loudspeakers distributed throughout, mounted high on cable trays (approx. 3m) and custom-coloured white to match surroundings. Zones included the main dining space and bar, each with local volume controls.
First Floor (Mezzanine)
Focused on higher energy. In addition to CDD6s, this area included Martin Audio SX110 subwoofers to deliver a deeper, fuller sound – perfect for a more upbeat vibe. Speaker direction was carefully plotted to avoid bleed into terminal space.
Control
An Optimal Audio Zone 4 digital mixer was installed to enable EQ and delay control per zone, with simple-to-use wall-mounted controls for staff.
Sources
A combination of background music players and DJ inputs allowed flexibility based on the time of day or event.
Training & Support
Simplicity was key. Staff in both venues received short, hands-on training sessions focused on key functions – primarily source selection and zone volume control. Systems were configured for day-to-day ease of use: power-up routines, background music schedules, and automated overrides were all pre-programmed.
MSL also continues to provide ongoing maintenance and remote support across both sites. In the event of system issues or new requirements (e.g. extending zones or adding new input points), the AV team are on-hand to assist.
Why Middlesex Sound & Lighting?
Sanfords selected MSL for these airport-based projects based on:
- Expertise in multi-zone hospitality venues
- Proven ability to work within security-sensitive environments
- End-to-end project management, from design and procurement to installation and handover
- Strong relationships with premium audio brands like Martin Audio and Optimal Audio
- Reputation for reliability – especially where logistics and coordination are complex