GVAV
Capturing Cambridge University’s new Ray Dolby Centre.
Background
GVAV, one of the UK’s leading AV system integrators, appointed Arrow & Zest to capture one of its most significant projects to date – the University of Cambridge’s £303 million Ray Dolby Centre.
As the new home of the Department of Physics, the building unites cutting-edge research, teaching and collaboration under one roof. From the discovery of the electron to the structure of DNA, Cambridge’s physics legacy provided the perfect backdrop for a story about technology enabling the next generation of breakthroughs.
Challenge
This was a flagship project for GVAV – technically complex, academically prestigious and demanding a creative approach that did it justice.
We were tasked with producing a video case study that worked on multiple levels: showcasing the scale and sophistication of the installation, highlighting how the AV systems deliver simplicity and connectivity across the building, and reinforcing GVAV’s position as a trusted technology partner to one of the world’s most respected universities.
The film needed to strike the right balance between authenticity and aspiration – celebrating the achievement while capturing the people and purpose behind it.
Services
✔ Video case study
✔ Photography
✔ Social assets
Solution
We worked closely with the GVAV team to understand the vision, scope and technologies behind the project, developing a tailored filming plan to tell the story through the voices of both Cambridge University and GVAV.
A three-person crew delivered a tightly coordinated one-day shoot across lecture theatres, seminar rooms and collaboration spaces. Every detail was considered – from lighting that enhanced the architecture to cinematic angles that revealed the integration at play.
The final film balances human storytelling with technical precision, supported by a soundtrack that echoes the curiosity and discovery that define the Physics Department.
Results
The finished film became a standout asset in GVAV’s portfolio, supported by photography and a series of teaser edits for social media.
The project featured on the cover of Inavate Magazine and is being used across GVAV’s marketing, award entries and tender submissions – helping to strengthen their profile in the education and AV sectors.
“We identified the Ray Dolby Centre project as a key case study opportunity that was worthy of a full video feature to match the level of prestige surrounding the building.
While we knew what to expect from Alex having worked with him before, we were impressed with his attention to detail from start to finish. Alex instigated regular planning and alignment meetings with us and went above and beyond to ensure that all parties were prepared for the day's filming and that everything went smoothly on the day.
The final edit looks fantastic and is a credit to the professionalism of Alex and his team, who were all easy to work with and very efficient.”
Michael Courts Marketing Manager, GVAV