What made the winners of the 2025 Inavation Awards Project Categories stand out?

What made the winners of the 2025 Inavation Awards Project Categories stand out?
Each year, the Inavation Awards celebrate the most innovative and impactful AV projects from across the globe, recognising excellence in design, integration and execution.

This year’s winners pushed the boundaries of technology and creativity, delivering solutions that only met but exceeded client expectations.

Our panel of judges assessed each entry rigorously, considering technical achievement, problem-solving and end-user impact. Here, we take a closer look at the standout projects that claimed top honours, along with insights from the judging panel on what set them apart from the competition.

BEST ARTS & EXPERIENCE PROJECT: Kraftwerk Living Technologies - Bermuda Storm, China

Judges commended Kraftwerk Living Technologies for its masterful integration of AV and immersive effects in Bermuda Storm, a groundbreaking attraction within the Chimelong Spaceship Indoor Theme Park. A feat of engineering and storytelling, the experience plunges visitors into the chaos of the Bermuda Triangle, combining the world’s largest curved projection screen (1,682 sq m), high-powered 4K projection, and a record-breaking 304-person motion platform.

Kraftwerk Living Technologies played a crucial role in synchronising advanced visuals, 41-channel spatial audio, ultra-low frequency effects, and real-time motion simulation. Judges highlighted the precision with which the experience blends cinematic storytelling and thrilling sensory effects - from lightning and ocean spray to powerful subsonic vibrations - creating an unrivalled level of realism.

The seamless integration of media and special effects into the attraction’s storyline was particularly praised, setting new benchmarks in experiential entertainment. Judges also recognised the project’s technical complexity, from its custom-built screen to its motion-synced pre-show. By delivering an unparalleled multisensory experience at an extraordinary scale, Kraftwerk Living Technologies has redefined immersive theme park entertainment.

Finalists:

ADI UK - Manchester Printworks, UK; Ars Electronica Solutions - The Wave, Germany; AVI-SPL - Arte Museum Las Vegas, USA; First Impression audiovisual - Odido Tech Hub, The Netherlands; Hyundai Futurenet - Le Space Inspire, Republic of Korea; ISE and SONO – Fira South Access Welcome Screen, Spain; Laservision - Bullanginya Dreaming, Australia; Pioneer Group - Lookfantastic Concept Store, UK; SLX - Blum Showroom Brand Zone, Poland

 

BEST CONNECTED MEETING SPACE: IDNS - The Manchester College, UK

Judges commended IDNS for its innovative transformation of The Manchester College's executive boardroom, setting a new standard for connected meeting spaces. The project replaced an outdated, divisible room with a state-of-the-art facility designed to provide an equitable experience for both in-person and remote participants. Central to this achievement was the integration of a Lenovo ThinkSmart Core Microsoft Teams Room system, ensuring seamless connectivity and user-friendly operation. The bespoke wishbone-shaped table, crafted in collaboration with Quadra AV Furniture, was strategically designed to optimise camera angles and enhance participant engagement. The AV setup featured two Aver auto-tracking cameras and a Panasonic ultra-wide fixed-angle camera, complemented by Shure beamforming microphone arrays and ceiling tile speakers, delivering exceptional audio clarity and dynamic voice tracking. Judges highlighted the system's intuitive design, allowing users to easily connect personal devices and manage meetings with minimal technical assistance. By prioritising flexibility, simplicity, and high-quality performance, IDNS has redefined the modern meeting environment, effectively addressing the evolving needs of hybrid workspaces.

Finalists:

AV Media Systems | GPA - Boston Consulting Group, Czech Republic; Brill AV Media | GPA - BEC Poland Meet-UP space, Poland; Eyte Technologies & Cosmos – NABARD, India

 

BEST CORPORATE PROJECT: Sigma AVIT - Boeing’s India Engineering & Technology Center, India

Judges praised Sigma AVIT for its exemplary execution of the AV integration at Boeing’s India Engineering & Technology Center (BIETC), a cutting-edge campus designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and engagement. With an extensive deployment of advanced AV solutions, Sigma AVIT delivered a seamlessly connected environment across key spaces, including the Experience Centre, executive meeting rooms, collaboration zones, and a state-of-the-art auditorium.

A standout achievement was the Experience Centre, where Sigma AVIT integrated immersive LED walls, interactive displays, and precision-engineered audio systems to create an engaging showcase of Boeing’s aviation technology. Judges also highlighted the sophisticated AV infrastructure in the executive and collaboration spaces, featuring seamless videoconferencing, dynamic content sharing, and intelligent control systems.

By combining technical expertise with user-centric design, Sigma AVIT created a flexible and future-ready workspace that enhances communication and supports Boeing’s strategic vision. Judges commended Sigma AVIT’s meticulous approach to system integration, ensuring a robust, intuitive, and high-performance AV experience across the entire facility.

Finalists:

AVI-SPL - Ebdaa Innovation Hub, UAE; AV Media Systems | GPA - Blue Style, Czech Republic; Blackbox XR - Akbank HQ, Türkiye; GMS | GPA – The German Lawyers’ Institute, Germany; Octavius RE & Media Powerhouse - Canonical London Briefing Centre, UK; Pan Intellecom - ONGC Darpan, India; Project Audio Visual - Miller Insurance, UK; Senovva - Bristol Myers Squibb, USA; TAD Associates – TAD Workspace, USA

 

BEST EDUCATION PROJECT: University of the Arts & Kinly - UAL East Bank Campus, UK

Judges praised the University of the Arts London (UAL) and Kinly for delivering an ambitious and technically advanced AV installation at UAL’s East Bank Campus, a 36,000 sq m, 17-story vertical campus in London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Designed to unify the London College of Fashion under one roof for the first time in its 150-year history, the project integrated a forward-thinking AVoIP solution across 219 specialist learning spaces, meeting rooms, and a 334-seat auditorium.

A standout feature was the Virtual Production Research Volume, incorporating Sony’s Verona Crystal LED technology in a groundbreaking installation. Judges also highlighted the auditorium’s 11m-wide LED display and acoustics engineered for clear speech without reinforcement. The entire AV infrastructure was designed for speed, scale, and sustainability, enabling a seamless and intuitive learning environment.

Despite construction delays and logistical challenges, UAL and Kinly delivered an exceptional, future-proofed solution that enhances collaboration, creativity, and digital innovation. Judges commended their ability to implement cutting-edge technology under demanding conditions, setting a new benchmark for AV in education.

Finalists:

AV Media Systems | GPA - Sféra Pardubice, Czech Republic; hmpartner & FL Medientechnik - University of Leipzig, Germany; IDNS - The University of Wales Trinity Saint David - Westferry Campus, UK;  Integral Polymedia Systems - DIFC Academy, UAE; Kinly - Marga Klompé building at Tilburg University, The Netherlands; proAV - Aston University, UK; Roche AV Pro - NTU Belgrave Postgraduate Centre, UK; ST Engineering Antycip - Daresbury Infinadeck, UK; Strive AV - Bath Spa University, UK

 

BEST GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC SECTOR PROJECT: Telmaco - UN Africa Hall Renovation, Ethiopia

Judges praised Telmaco for its exemplary execution of the AV and conferencing systems at the newly renovated Africa Hall, a historic United Nations landmark in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A symbol of African unity and diplomacy, the hall has hosted pivotal moments in the continent’s history. Telmaco’s work ensured it was future-proofed with cutting-edge technology while respecting its heritage.

The installation featured a comprehensive AV and conferencing system, including a 112-seat plenary hall equipped with simultaneous interpretation, voting, messaging, and advanced camera tracking. Judges highlighted the seamless integration of a curved 11m LED video wall, automated microphone tracking, and a state-of-the-art AVoIP distribution system. A fully networked IPTV, digital signage, and paging system further enhanced the building-wide experience.

Despite logistical challenges, including international coordination and customs delays, Telmaco delivered a robust, high-performance AV infrastructure that will support world-class summits and diplomatic engagements. Judges commended the company’s meticulous attention to detail, ensuring Africa Hall remains a hub for global governance and collaboration.

Finalists:

A&ITS – The provincial auditorium of Pavia, Italy; Aesthetix - ADNOC Panorama Digital Command Center, UAE; Emirates Health Services - EHS Smart Offices, UAE; Polymedia Uzbekistan - Situation Center for the National Bank of Uzbekistan; Redmouse - The Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan; Smartcomm - The Wirral Council Offices, UK; Snelling Business Systems - UKAEA Fusion HQ, UK

 

BEST HEALTHCARE PROJECT: Johannes Kepler University Linz, PKE Electronics & Ars Electronica Future Lab - Med Uni Graz, Austria

Judges commended Johannes Kepler University Linz, PKE Electronics, and Ars Electronica Future Lab for their groundbreaking work in medical education, delivering a fully synchronized virtual 3D lecture hall across two universities. This pioneering project bridges the gap between Med Uni Graz and JKU Linz, allowing medical students to experience real-time, stereoscopic 3D anatomy lectures simultaneously across both institutions, an unprecedented achievement in healthcare education.

A standout feature is the high-resolution 3D LED wall in Graz, paired with JKU’s medSPACE, where real-time rendered 8K anatomical models are streamed with ultra-low latency. Judges praised the system’s ability to seamlessly integrate physical anatomical specimens with digital models, providing an unparalleled learning experience. The integration of advanced 3D camera rigs, high-frame-rate streaming, and synchronised IR-controlled shutter glasses further enhances engagement for students.

By merging cutting-edge visualization with practical medical training, this project sets a new benchmark for digital healthcare education. Judges recognised its ability to improve anatomical comprehension, making it a transformative tool for the next generation of medical professionals.

Finalists:

ArtAV – Coventry University School of Health and Care, UK; Emirates Health Services - Digital Care Centre, UAE; Telmaco - Evangelismos General Hospital, Greece

 

BEST HOSPITALITY PROJECT: Redmouse - Intercontinental Hotel Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Judges praised Redmouse for delivering an exceptional AV integration at the Intercontinental Hotel Tashkent, seamlessly blending luxury hospitality with cutting-edge technology. Situated within the prestigious Trilliant Complex, the hotel’s AV systems were designed to elevate guest experiences while supporting high-profile events with world-class AV infrastructure.

A standout feature was the fully integrated event and conferencing ecosystem, including a grand ballroom with a modular AV system, simultaneous interpretation, and a wireless delegate system supporting up to 450 users. Judges highlighted Redmouse’s expertise in designing a seamless automation system, allowing meeting spaces to dynamically adapt to different event configurations. The project also featured a comprehensive background music and digital signage network, energy-efficient lighting, and intuitive in-room entertainment solutions.

Redmouse’s commitment to sustainability was also recognised, with intelligent automation reducing energy consumption and AVoIP ensuring future-proof scalability. Judges commended the meticulous attention to guest comfort and cultural integration, with multilingual interfaces and digital displays celebrating Uzbekistan’s heritage. The project sets a new benchmark for technology-driven hospitality experiences.

Finalists:

Middlesex Sound and Lighting – Piraña, UK; Pioneer Group - ATIS Food, UK; Solotech – DiscoShow, USA; Conductr - Dave & Buster’s, USA; Martin Professional Middle East - Rixos Premium Alamein, Egypt

 

BEST HOUSE OF WORSHIP PROJECT: Diversified - Transformation Church, USA

Judges praised Diversified for its pioneering work at Transformation Church, delivering a world-first UHD HDR cinematic video system and an immersive audio environment that redefines worship experiences. Tasked with transforming a 4,500-seat former arena into a cutting-edge house of worship, Diversified integrated advanced AV technologies that elevate both in-person and online engagement.

A standout feature is the L-Acoustics L2 L-ISA immersive loudspeaker system, the first of its kind in a house of worship, ensuring precise spatial audio that enhances the connection between the stage and congregation. Judges also highlighted the cinematic broadcast system, featuring Sony cameras, Ross Acuity switching, and AbelCine creative expertise, delivering a production quality that rivals major entertainment broadcasts. A Riedel intercom system, UHD fibre transport, and a high-speed production network provide seamless communication and content distribution.

Despite the challenge of upgrading a live facility, Diversified delivered a state-of-the-art venue that supports Transformation Church’s global reach. Judges commended the project’s innovation, scale, and ability to set new benchmarks in modern worship environments.

Finalists:

Delta Tecno Studio - Duomo di Milano, Italy; Innovative Systems and Solutions- Saifee Mosque Complex, India; Solotech - Soul Church, Norwich – UK

 

BEST LIVE EVENT PROJECT: BeWunder - Rugby 7S, UAE

Judges praised BeWunder for its outstanding technical execution and creative vision at the Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s, where it delivered a seamless audiovisual experience across the festival’s key entertainment zones: Frequency on 8, Rugby Rocks, and Pitch 1.

At Frequency on 8, BeWunder designed an iconic stage concept inspired by the theme of "frequency," featuring a circular video screen encircled by washes and beams to mimic sound waves. The event’s audio backbone included a DiGiCo SD12 console network with L-Acoustics K2 and KS28 subwoofers, ensuring pristine sound quality for international touring acts.

Rugby Rocks, the event’s rock music stage, featured a dynamic lighting design with pixel bars and tungsten molefays, evoking a classic ACL bar aesthetic. The audio experience was powered by an L-Acoustics Kara II system with KS21 subwoofers, delivering an immersive concert atmosphere.

Pitch 1 required meticulous sound engineering, with a distributed L-Acoustics A-Series system ensuring clarity across the grandstands. Judges commended BeWunder’s innovative use of 3D modelling for audio planning, its seamless integration of technology, and its role in elevating the event’s energy for over 100,000 attendees.

Finalists:

Europalco - Millennium BCP Management Meeting 2024, Portugal; LCI Productions - Windsor Great Park Illuminated 2023, UK; Profox - Fårup Lysfald, Denmark

 

BEST MUSEUMS & HERITAGE PROJECT: D&P - The People's House: A White House Experience, USA

Judges praised Design and Production Incorporated (D&P) for its exceptional execution of The People's House: A White House Experience, an immersive museum that brings the history of the White House to life through cutting-edge AV technology. Located just a block from the White House, this groundbreaking exhibit blends large-scale digital storytelling with interactive displays, allowing visitors to explore the Executive Mansion in unprecedented detail.

Key highlights include a 17-foot-wide 1/5 scale model of the White House featuring embedded video screens, synchronised lighting, and projection-mapped historical recreations. Judges also commended the Dollhouse, a meticulously crafted miniature of 19 interior rooms where transparent OLED screens and rear-projection surfaces dynamically bring presidential history to life. The State Floor Immersive Theatre further impressed with 4K projections that let visitors interact with iconic artifacts through gesture recognition.

D&P’s expertise in seamless AV integration and intuitive interactivity ensures a deeply engaging, educational experience. Judges recognised this project as a benchmark in museum design, combining historical storytelling with cutting-edge technology to offer visitors a truly presidential experience.

Finalists:

Ars Electronica Solutions - Deep Space Shanghai, China; Ata Tech - National Holocaust Museum Amsterdam, The Netherlands; AV Media Systems / GPA - Krkonoše Museum, Czech Republic; Dem Museums - Ephesus Experience Museum – Türkiye; Edigma - The History of Energy, Portugal; LEM-Studios - Marvel: Earth’s Mightiest Exhibition, New Zealand; Pan Intellecom - Jhansi Space Museum, India; Stouenborg - Naturkraft Dome Projection, Denmark; Tinker imagineers - Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp, Belgium

 

BEST SMART BUILDING PROJECT: PTS Consulting - GSK Earnshaw Building, London, UK

Judges praised PTS Consulting for delivering an exemplary smart building infrastructure at GSK’s Earnshaw Building, setting a new standard for workplace wellness, sustainability, and intelligent building integration. Designed to be the "world’s healthiest workplace," the project seamlessly merges IoT-driven data analytics with a dynamic employee experience, ensuring a workspace that actively supports well-being and productivity.

A standout achievement was the deployment of over 700 smart sensors monitoring air quality, occupancy, CO2 levels, and light conditions, enabling real-time environmental adjustments. Judges commended the integration of Appspace digital signage and wayfinding, which provides live air quality data and directs employees to optimal workspaces. The Moodsonic soundscaping system - the largest of its kind in Europe -was also highlighted, intelligently adapting ambient sound to enhance focus and comfort across 12 floors.

By embedding AI-driven environmental controls, intuitive workspace booking, and a fully integrated digital ecosystem, PTS Consulting has created a forward-thinking, responsive workplace. Judges recognised the project as a benchmark in smart building innovation, blending cutting-edge technology with a people-centric approach to corporate wellness.

Finalists:

Ata Tech - National Holocaust Museum Amsterdam, The Netherlands; AVEX | GPA - NBC Conference Center, The Netherlands; Trison Necsum - Real Madrid Store at the Santiago Bernabéu, Spain

 

BEST VENUES & EVENTS SPACES PROJECT: AVEX | GPA - NBC Conference Center, The Netherlands

Judges praised AVEX | GPA for its extraordinary work in rebuilding and future-proofing the NBC Conference Center in the Netherlands following a devastating fire in 2022. This ambitious project not only restored but reimagined the venue, delivering cutting-edge AV solutions that set a new benchmark for conference technology.

A standout feature is the largest 3D 4K projection decor in the Netherlands, spanning 45m to create an immersive visual experience for large-scale events. Judges also highlighted the innovative AV-over-IP system, which transforms every network port into a potential AV connection point, allowing for seamless reconfiguration of spaces. The centralised control room ensures remote management of AV, lighting, and content across the venue, while intuitive mobile interfaces empower staff to make real-time adjustments effortlessly.

Judges commended AVEX | GPA’s ability to blend advanced automation with user-friendly design, ensuring a flawless event experience. By integrating sustainable, flexible, and high-performance AV infrastructure, the NBC Conference Center has been transformed into one of Europe’s most technologically advanced and adaptable event venues.

Finalists:

Broadwick Group – The Pelligon, UK; Clair Global - The Intuit Dome, USA; Dino Tech Limited & AVIT Engineering Company Limited - Christie’s, Hong Kong; Innovative Systems and Solutions - Raj Sabhagruh, Shrimad Rajchandra Mission, India; Professional Show - ACF Fiorentina- Italy; Profox – Funart, Denmark; Stouenborg – Dansehallerne, Denmark; TNC & BTM Sound - Teatre Nacional de Catalunya, Spain; Trison Necsum - Real Madrid Store at the Santiago Bernabéu, Spain