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We Imagine Future Cities

Our global perspectives set the stage for vibrant experiences.

Overall view of lounge and bar with intimate and eclectic interiors at Austin's Equipment Room

Equipment Room

High-Fidelity Listening Room

The Equipment Room is a unique and immersive experience that invites you to step back in time through high-quality sound, bespoke millwork, and eclectic decor. Situated in the basement of the Magdalena Hotel between South Congress Avenue and Arlyn Studios, known for hosting legendary artists like Willie Nelson, this Japanese kissa-inspired space offers an exclusive opportunity to indulge in high-fidelity vinyl. 

Inspired by the precision and craftsmanship of Tokyo’s listening rooms and a profound love of vinyl, the Equipment Room is designed to showcase the beauty and complexity of audio in an intimate and cozy atmosphere. Every night at the Equipment Room is a one-of-a-kind and memorable experience.

Shelving and audio equipment at Austin's Equipment Room

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a backlit stained-glass relic evoking a spiritual-like experience that guides them through an acoustic paneled portal to the listening room for a sense of exclusivity and privacy. The space is dimly lit to place focus on the acoustic equipment, while a sculpted back wall provides an intimate atmosphere complete with shadowy nooks for seating and private conversation.

The Equipment Room features a fully integrated Hemlock bar and custom-made feature wall designed to showcase the Klipsch sound equipment and record collection from Breakaway Records. A custom DJ booth with a roll-top tambour cover adds character and functionality to the space. Together, these elements make the Equipment Room visually stunning and highly functional.

"Our design concept for Equipment Room took cues from the craftsmanship and form of high-quality sound equipment."

— John Hallock, Studio Director + Design Lead

Texas-Themed Record Collection

The record collection — curated over the course of several decades — features more than 1200 LPs s that span a wide range of genres and eras. While the library heavily emphasizes the golden age of LP production from the ’60s to ’80s, the styles cover a broad range from jazz and soul to hip-hop and punk. Throughout the collection, a thematic throughline of Texas can be seen, with both celebrated legends and lesser-known musicians receiving equal attention and appreciation.

DJ playing vinyl at Austin's Equipment Room
Intimate and eclectic interiors at Austin's Equipment Room

Sensory Experience

Carefully chosen lighting and color palettes enrich the sensory encounter, creating an environment that is truly unforgettable. Whether you are an audiophile or simply appreciate good sound and design, the Equipment Room is a unique experience that you will want to revisit again and again.

View of Equipment Room in Austin looking into a private seating area

Collaborators

Operator and Creative: Bunkhouse, Breakaway Records

Architect, Interior Architect: RIOS

Interior Design: RIOS + Bunkhouse

FFE: Bunkhouse

Acoustics: ARUP

General Contractor: Franklin Alan

Structural Engineer: AEC

MEP Engineer: Introba

Lighting Designer: Within Light + Bunkhouse

DJ/Sound: Breakaway Records + Klipsch

Branding Development: Bunkhouse + Guerilla Suit

Location

Austin, Texas

Year Completed

2023

Markets

Hospitality

Disciplines

ArchitectureInterior Architecture

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