We've upgraded our dancefloor...
As the final piece of our extensive Room 1 renovation, we are proud to unveil our reimagined BodyKinetic dance floor, a cornerstone of our venue since its opening in 1999. This milestone, realised in partnership with Powersoft and other collaborators, signifies the culmination of the Room 1 sound system upgrade launched during our ‘fabric25’ celebrations.
The dancefloor’s evolution is rooted in our commitment to preserving its legendary impact while embracing cutting-edge technology. Originally designed with Bodysonic transducers that pioneered tactile sound experiences, the floor became synonymous with Room 1’s unique character. These silent subharmonics connected dancers to music in a deeply physical way, amplified by a groundbreaking quadraphonic speaker system. The vision of Keith Reilly and Dave Parry created a legacy that redefined club sound design.
Fast forward 25 years, and our technical team, led by Matt Smith, has brought this vision into the future. The upgrade incorporates Powersoft’s Movers — innovative Moving Magnet linear transducers — offering unparalleled haptic feedback and vibration clarity. “We’ve respected the floor’s history while making it even more immersive, the new system isn’t just an upgrade; it’s an evolution. The power, precision, and consistency are unmatched, enhancing the visceral connection between dancers and the music.” - Matt Smith
Unlike the original system, which required over 450 tactile transducers, the Movers operate with just 36 units, thanks to their efficient design. By reversing the traditional moving-coil mechanism, Movers achieve greater reliability and smoother performance, making the experience seamless from start to finish.
Beyond elevating the dancefloor’s performance, the new system champions inclusivity. By transforming sound into tactile vibrations, it enhances accessibility for individuals with hearing impairments. Collaborating with Deaf Rave, fabric is fine-tuning this feature to ensure a profound experience for the Deaf community.
The upgraded floor also paves the way for a groundbreaking partnership with Mastery Quantum Sound, blending meditation with live electronic music. Launched in March 2024, this residency transforms Room 1 into an immersive sanctuary for sound meditations and ambient explorations. Quantum Sound founder Daniel Avery and collaborators like Hannah Holland and Flora Yin Wong will guide audiences through five unique events, culminating in a special performance in June 2025. Sign up for early access to these sessions by clicking the flyer below.
This project has been made possible with the support of Powersoft, Quantum, Ajax Flooring, Sterling Groundwork, Deaf Rave, and the National Lottery through Arts Council England. Together, we’ve ensured that fabric remains a space where sound, innovation, and community converge.