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What is Acoustics?
Acoustics is the interdisciplinary study and science of sound, how it is generated, transmitted and received in the form of vibrational waves in different forms of matter and environments.

What is the link between Acoustics and Sound and how does it affect us?
Sound is a mechanical wave and form of energy that propagates through mediums
 such as air, water, or solid.
Sound can be measured and analys
ed using the principles of acoustics. It 
has an impact on our lives as it can affect human perception and response in terms of hearing, speech, cognition, emotion, health and well-being.

What are the Principles of Acoustics?
 1)  Sound waves have properties such as frequency, wavelength, amplitude, speed, and direction. As a general rule:
  • The directionality of sound depends on the wavelength of the sound wave and the size of the source and the obstacles that it encounters.
     
  • Low-frequency sounds tend to be more omni-directional than high-frequency sounds as it has longer wavelengths that can bend around objects and walls more easily. It also have less variation in loudness and time of arrival between two ears, which makes it harder to locate their source.
     
  • High-frequency sounds have shorter wavelengths that tend to radiate in a narrow beam from the source and is reflected or absorbed by objects and walls more easily. 
     
2) Sound waves can reflect, refract, diffract, interfere, and attenuate when they encounter boundaries or obstacles. 

3) Sound energy can be converted to other energy forms, such as Mechanical, Electrical and Heat Energy.
​
Acoustics is multi-disciplinary and an art in itself. The science behind optimising workspace acoustics is based on the principles of acoustic. However, the acoustic solutions for an issue may not be applicable to all other issues, as it depends on the environment of the space. For example, echo panels can alleviate echoes in spaces but may not be so effective for low/high frequency sounds.

What are the Common Acoustic Terminologies / Measurements?
  • Frequency: Number of cycles or vibrations of sound waves per second. Measured in Hertz (Hz).
  • Amplitude: Strength of sound waves. Measured in decibels (dB). 
  • Decibel: A logarithmic unit that indicates the loudness of a sound. To express the relative intensity of sound or ratio of two sound levels, the sound pressure level is compared to a reference level.
  • Wavelength: Distance between two points on a sound wave that are in phase. Usually measured in metres (m).
  • Resonance: The tendency of a system to vibrate with greater amplitude at certain frequencies than at others.
  • Phase: Relationship between two or more sound waves that are occurring simultaneously. Measured in degrees.
  • Sound Pressure Level (SPL): Measure of the acoustic pressure of a sound wave. Measured in decibels (dB) relative to a reference pressure.
  • Reverberation: The persistence of sound in an enclosed space due to repeated reflections.
  • Reflection: Occurs when sound waves hit a surface and bounces back, creating echoes and reverberation. 
  • Diffusion: Occurs when sound waves are scattered in different directions, breaking up reflections and reducing noise levels
  • Diffraction: The bending of sound waves around obstacles or through small openings.
  • Absorption: The reduction of sound energy as it passes through a material, such as a wall or a piece of foam.
  • Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC): Measure of the sound absorption of a material or surface. It is a number between 0 and 1 that indicates the proportion of sound energy that is absorbed by the material, with higher NRC values indicating greater sound absorption
  • Speech Intelligibility: Measure of how speech sounds can be heard clearly and comprehended correctly by the listener in a given environment. Good speech intelligibility is essential in environments where communication is critical. Factors that can affect speech intelligibility include background noise levels, the quality of the sound system, the acoustic properties of the space, and the distance between the speaker and the listener

​

[Insert graphic on db https://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/suppliers/decor-systems/the-complete-guide-to-specifying-acoustics]

Acoustics

Acoustics Explained
Introduction 
Principles and Common Terminologies
What does Acousticians do
Why invest in Acoustics

Architectural Acoustics
Sound Insulation and Absorption
Sound Absorption
Noise Control

Acoustics Checklist

Solutions and Systems Examples
What does Acoustic Consultants / Acousticians do?
Acoustics can be applied to many fields and industries - from the design of sound-sensitive spaces such as recording studios, to building / workplace noise measurement and control, to system design (e.g. for cars, planes, submarines).

Acousticians understand the principles of acoustics and can provide solutions for noise reduction, sound quality improvement, speech intelligibility enhancement and acoustic comfort.


Why should organisations invest in Acoustics Consulting?

Organisations engage in acoustics consulting to design, control, and optimise the acoustic environment of their projects. The business case for investing in acoustics consulting is based on the benefits that good acoustics can bring to different types of projects, which may include:
  • Create comfortable, productive, and sustainable spaces that meet users' needs, expectations and experience.
  • ​Enhance aesthetic and functional value of the space (from art venues such as concert halls, to wellness spaces such as spas, to businesses such as workplaces, hotels and restaurants etc)
  • Improve the performance and well-being of employees in sound-sensitive / noisy spaces such as offices, schools, hospitals and factories.
  • Reduce environmental impact of noise pollution from sources (from airports, railways, roads, to factories and industrial plants etc).
  • Avoid potential risks and costs associated with noise pollution/ poor acoustics (such as complaints, litigation, regulation violations, reputational damage needs and expectations of their users). 
​Acoustic Checklist
​

Plan ahead what you need to know:

  • Room dimensions

  • Ceiling height

  • Type of lighting

  • Ventilation/ductwork

  • Fire rating requirements

  • Environmental accreditations required

  • Potential issues

  • New build or retrofit?

  • Current sound treatments
     

Diagnosis – What are your main sound issues?

Part one:

  • Echo

  • Excessive noise

  • Reverberation

  • Sound quality

  • Speech intelligibility

  • Hearing protection

If any of these is a critical issue, you will need sound absorption products.

Part two:

  • Sound transfer

  • Low frequencies

  • Impact noise

  • Vibration noise

If any of these is a critical issue, you will need sound isolation products.


In a built environment, acoustic treatment typically addresses the following three acoustic issues:

space planning - loud and focus spatial planning shldnt

Generic principles of sound


 
In a built environment, acoustic treatment typically addresses the following three acoustic issues:
Sound Insulation and Isolation
Future Ready Trading Floors.png
Sound Insulation and Isolation techniques / treatments are designed to reduce the transmission of sound and vibration between different spaces and from inside to outside of a building. 

They typically address issues arising from Sound Transfer, Low Frequencies, Impact and/or Vibration Noises. 

According to Allied Market Research, the Global Acoustic Insulation Market is valued at $12,274.9 million in 2020 and is projected to reach $21,205.7 million in 2030, registering a CAGR of  5.6% from 2021 to 2030. https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/acoustic-insulation-market

Privacy privacy risk

 reduce the impact of noise from airportshighways and stadiums, while making sure sound systems are heard with clarity in even the busiest transport hubs.

​

Common Acoustic Problems requiring Sound Isolation Treatments:
  • Speech privacy:
    In spaces where confidential conversations take place, such as offices, conference rooms, or medical facilities, it's important to prevent sound from being heard outside the room.
  • Noise from external sources:
    Noise from traffic, construction, or other sources outside a building can be disruptive and affect the comfort and productivity of those inside.
  • Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) noise:
    HVAC systems can produce significant amounts of noise that can be distracting and disrupt communication.
  • Room-to-room sound transmission:
    Sound can easily travel through walls, floors, and ceilings, which can be problematic in buildings with multiple rooms or spaces that require acoustic separation.
  • Footfall noise:
    In multi-story buildings, footfall noise from people walking on floors above can be a significant source of noise and vibration.
  • Mechanical equipment noise:
    Equipment such as generators, pumps, and machinery can produce significant amounts of noise that can be disturbing to occupants in the vicinity.

     
Depending on the issue and environment, Sound Insulation / Isolation Solutions can involve the use of:
  • Sound Masking  / Sound Proofing Materials 
  • Acoustic Barriers and Insulation (e.g. on Wall and Ceilings)
  • Construction Techniques that minimise the transfer of sound
  • Resilient Mounts, Hangers ?
  • Cellulose Spray Treatments -An insulation material made from recycled paper products, treated with fire retardant chemicals and blown into walls, floors, and ceilings using a specialised machine, used for thermal insulation as well as sound isolation / insulation and noise control. It helps to reduce noise pollution both within and outside of a building as the cellulose fibers absorb sound waves and dampen vibrations, helping to improve the acoustic performance of a building. 

Some of these work to minimise the transmission of sound and vibration between spaces, as well as reduce the impact of external noise.
 

Recommendations for Sound Isolation include:
  • Identify potential sources of sound leakage such as ducts, vents, doors and windows
  • Use thinner, denser materials to achieve optimal sound isolation, and choose thicker, less compressed materials to minimise impact and vibrational noises, as appropriate.
  • Seal or cover every surface of the room with appropriate sound isolation material to prevent sound from escaping or entering it.
  • Install sound isolation materials directly to wall studs, floor joists or between wall layers. Additional layers of plasterboards can be added as adding more mass will generally lead to better sound isolation results.

​

 

Sound Absorption 
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Sound Absorption Techniques / Treatments are designed to reduce the amount of reflected sound waves in a space, to improve the acoustic quality of the space.

They are typically used to address issues arising from Echoes, Excessive Noise Reverberation, Ambient Noise, Speech Intangibility and Hearing Protection.

 
Common Acoustic Problems requiring Sound Absorption Treatments:
  • Echoes:
    In smaller rooms, such as conference rooms, lecture halls, and classrooms, sound can bounce off hard surfaces, causing echoes that can be distracting and make it difficult to hear and understand speech.
  • Excessive Noise Reverberation:
    In large, open spaces such as concert halls, theaters, and gymnasiums, sound can reflect off hard surfaces such as walls, floors, and ceilings, causing excessive reverberation and making it difficult to hear and understand speech or music.
  • Ambient Noise:
    In noisy environments, such as restaurants, bars, and offices, sound absorption treatments can help reduce the overall noise level and improve speech intelligibility.
  • Home Theaters:
    Sound absorption treatments can improve the sound quality in home theaters by reducing echoes and reflections and improving speech intelligibility.
  • Recording Studios:
    In recording studios, sound absorption treatments are used to minimize reflections and reverberations, allowing for accurate monitoring and recording of sound.
​
Depending on the issue and environment, Sound Absorption Solutions can involve the use of:​​
  • Acoustic Diffusers -
    Specialised surfaces designed to scatter sound waves in different directions to create a more even distribution of sound in a room and reducing echos and standing waves. Typically used in large rooms with high ceiling to help prevent sound waves from becoming trapped in corners or behind surfaces
  • Acoustic Baffles -
    Hanging panels or screens used to absorb and control sound reflections. Available in variety of sizes and shapes and can be arranged in different configurations to create specific acoustic effects. Typically used in large, open spaces
  • Acoustic Panels -
    Flat, wall-mounted or freestanding panels made of sound-absorbing materials such as foam, fiberglass or mineral wool. Can be covered with fabrics or finishes to match the surrounding decor. Available in a variety of sizes, shapes, thickness, colors and patterns for added visual interest to a space. Typically used to indoor environments to reduce noise levels and improve sound quality in indoor environments
  • Acoustic Tiles  -
    Small and flat modular panels made of sound-absorbing materials such as foam, fiber glass or mineral wool. Designed to be installed in a grid pattern on ceiling or walls to reduce noise levels and improve sound quality. Available in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors.
     

These solutions work to absorb the reflected sound waves and are strategically placed to reduce the amount of reflected sound in the space.

​
Recommendations for Sound Absorption include:
  • Determine the level of absorption needed to specify the appropriate Acoustic Absorption products needed.
    • Light Absorption (5%-25% Coverage):
      Suitable for Offices, Interview and Conference Rooms, Recording Studios
    • Moderate Absorption (25%-50% Coverage)​:
      Suitable for  Open-plan Offices and Theatres
    • Heavy Absorption (50%-60% Coverage):
      Suitable for Phone Booths, Recording Isolation Booths and other areas that require total absorption and concentration.

​

Noise Control
Subterrenean Services, Smart Cities.png
Noise Control is a broader term that encompasses both Sound Insulation/Isolation, Sound Absorption, as well as other treatments designed to reduce noise and its impact on people and the environment.

According to Allied Market Research, the Global Noise Mitigation System is valued at $36.9 million in 2021 and is projected to reach $57.7 million in 2030, registering a CAGR of  4.7% from 2021 to 2030. 


https://finance.yahoo.com/news/global-noise-mitigation-system-market-143000604.html
Minimise Corridor Noise of a shared space
Fix
minimise noise intrusion 
Comfort, focus and wellness

ABSORB NOISE CONVERT ONE ENERGY TO ANOTHER
CANT DESTROY OR 
Common acoustic problems requiring Noise Control Treatments:
  • Excessive Noise Levels:
    Excessive noise levels or overexposure to noise in workplaces, industrial and outdoor environments can distract, cause physical discomfort and metal fatigue. In more extreme cases, it may be hazardous to health and safety, and can cause hearing damage, stress, and other health problems.
     
  • Room acoustics:
    Poor room acoustics can affect the quality of sound. In concert halls, theatres and other performance spaces, poor acoustics make it difficult for performers and audiences to hear and appreciate the performance.
  • Mechanical equipment noise:
    Noise from machinery, HVAC systems, and other equipment can be a significant source of noise and vibration that can be disturbing to occupants.
  • Room-to-room sound transmission:
    Sound can easily travel through walls, floors and ceilings and cause disturbances. In multi-tenant or shared spaces, room-to-room sound transmission reduces privacy. 
  • Environmental noise:
    Noise from transportation, construction, and other sources can be a significant source of noise pollution, causing disturbances to nearby residents and businesses.
​
To address these and other noise problems, noise control treatments such as sound barriers, acoustic insulation, vibration isolation, and noise reduction devices can be used to reduce the transmission of sound and vibration and minimize the impact of noise on people and the environment. These treatments can be designed and implemented to suit the specific acoustic requirements of the space and the needs of its occupants.

 
Depending on the issue and environment, Noise Mitigation Solutions can involve the use of:
  • Acoustic Diffusers -
    Specialised surfaces designed to scatter sound waves in different directions to create a more even distribution of sound in a room and reducing echos and standing waves. Typically used in large rooms with high ceiling to help prevent sound waves from becoming trapped in corners or behind surfaces
  • Acoustic Baffles -
    Hanging panels or screens used to absorb and control sound reflections. Available in variety of sizes and shapes and can be arranged in different configurations to create specific acoustic effects. Typically used in large, open spaces
  • Acoustic Panels -
    Flat, wall-mounted or freestanding panels made of sound-absorbing materials such as foam, timbre, fiberglass or mineral wool. Can be covered with fabrics or finishes to match the surrounding decor. Available in a variety of sizes, shapes, thickness, colors and patterns for added visual interest to a space. Typically used to indoor environments to reduce noise levels and improve sound quality in indoor environments
  • Acoustic Tiles  -
    Small and flat modular panels made of sound-absorbing materials such as foam, fiber glass or mineral wool. Designed to be installed in a grid pattern on ceiling or walls to reduce noise levels and improve sound quality. Available in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors.
  • Acoustic Barriers (Sound / Noise Barrier Walls) - 
    Physical barriers designed to reduce the transmission of sound from one area to another. Typically used in outdoor environments to reduce the impact of noise pollution in an area
  • Cellulose Spray Treatments -An insulation material made from recycled paper products, treated with fire retardant chemicals and blown into walls, floors, and ceilings using a specialised machine, used for thermal insulation as well as sound isolation / insulation and noise control. It helps to reduce noise pollution both within and outside of a building as the cellulose fibers absorb sound waves and dampen vibrations, helping to improve the acoustic performance of a building. 
     
These solutions work to mitigate noise levels in a space.
​
Sound masking is an acoustic treatment that involves adding a low-level background sound to an environment to reduce the intelligibility of unwanted speech or other distracting sounds. It works by reducing the contrast between ambient noise levels and the sound of the distracting noise, making it less noticeable and easier to ignore.

Sound masking can help solve a variety of acoustic problems, including:

  1. Speech privacy: By adding a low-level background sound, sound masking can help prevent conversations from being overheard in open-plan offices, conference rooms, and other shared spaces.

  2. Distractions and noise disruptions: Sound masking can help reduce the impact of noise disruptions, such as HVAC systems, footfall noise, and outside traffic noise, making it easier for people to concentrate and work more productively.

  3. Patient comfort: In healthcare settings, sound masking can help reduce the impact of equipment noise, staff conversations, and other noises that can be disruptive to patients and interfere with their recovery.

Sound masking is typically achieved using electronic sound masking systems, which generate a low-level, broadband sound that is distributed throughout the environment via speakers. The sound can be customized to match the acoustic characteristics of the environment, and can be adjusted or turned off as needed.

​

A sound masking system—along with its partner sound scaping—is a grid of speakers that is typically hidden above an acoustical tile ceiling and creates a gentle blanket of sound that mimics HVAC noise. Running air is not uniform throughout the office, so masking fills in those blanks and makes that person’s key clicks, phone conversations or interoffice conversations a few desks or rows away less noticeable, making the office a much more attractive place to escape to and get some work done.  Masking can also address privacy concerns by making up for the lack of performance from certain furniture choices or glass walls and fronts in today’s open office.  

​

Sound scaping can be incorporated into the masking system and can make a space divisible without building walls. Scaping can create any variety of “environments” such as with the sounds of a park—a babbling brook, birds chirping or the breeze blowing. “Based on the content you are playing, you delineate if this is more of a quiet, heads down area, or this is more of a social area,” said Maniscalco. “It’s great for people looking for ways to entice people back into the office from home.” 

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Biophilic Sound System?

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The Noise Awareness Acoustic System created by SoundEar, Jabra, and FORCE Technology visualises office noise levels and helps employees change their behavior.
​
The system consists of several components, including:
  1. SoundEar Pro noise monitoring system: This is a device that measures the ambient noise levels in the office environment. It uses a high-precision microphone to capture sound, and then processes the data to generate visual representations of the noise levels.
  2. Jabra headsets: These are high-quality headsets that are designed to cancel out background noise and provide clear audio communication.
  3. SoundEar Visualizer: This is a software program that runs on a computer and displays the noise levels captured by the SoundEar Pro system in real-time. The software can be customized to display different types of data, such as overall noise levels, specific noise sources, or noise trends over time.
  4. Behavior change program: This is a training program that helps employees understand the impact of noise on their productivity and well-being, and provides them with strategies to reduce noise levels in the office.
Together, these components create a comprehensive acoustic system that allows employees to monitor and manage office noise levels. By providing real-time feedback on noise levels, employees can become more aware of their own noise-making behaviors and take steps to reduce noise levels in the office. This can lead to a more productive and comfortable work environment, and ultimately, better job satisfaction and performance.
​
​
The Constellation system manufactured by Meyer Sound is a sophisticated acoustic system designed to address speech privacy and noise control in office environments. The system uses a combination of advanced microphone technology, digital signal processing, and strategically placed loudspeakers to create an optimal acoustic environment for speech privacy and sound masking.
​
The Constellation system works by detecting speech noise in the office and then breaking it down into its individual frequency components. This is done using a high-resolution microphone array that captures sound from all directions in the room. The system's advanced digital signal processing algorithms analyze the frequency components of the speech noise and generate a complementary masking noise that is designed to be incomprehensible to human listeners.
The masking noise is then distributed throughout the room using a network of strategically placed loudspeakers. These loudspeakers are precisely calibrated to provide uniform coverage of the room, ensuring that the masking noise is evenly distributed and does not create any noticeable hotspots or dead zones.
​
One of the key advantages of the Constellation system is that it is designed to keep noise levels below the Lombard effect, which is a phenomenon where speakers unconsciously raise their voice in response to increased background noise levels. By keeping noise levels below the Lombard effect, the Constellation system helps to reduce speech noise and improve speech privacy in the office, while also providing a more comfortable and productive work environment for employees.
​
Overall, the Constellation system is a highly sophisticated and effective solution for addressing speech privacy and noise control in office environments, and is widely used in a variety of settings, including corporate offices, conference rooms, and government facilities.

Checklist for Workplace Acoustics:
 

1) Is it a new build or retrofit? 

New builds offer greater flexibility because acoustic design can be integrated from the beginning. For example, acousticians can work closely with interior designers on the strategic layout of the space and specify the appropriate materials and acoustic solutions that blends in with the aesthetics of the space. The mechanical and electrical systems can also be designed with acoustics in mind, allowing for more efficient noise control.

​

In a retrofit, there may be limitations on the ability to modify the existing structure or mechanical systems, making it more challenging to achieve optimal acoustic conditions. Retrofit projects may thus require a more creative approach to acoustic design, such as using specialised acoustic treatments that can be installed without major structural changes. Overall, while there are challenges associated with acoustic design in both new builds and retrofits, the key is to understand the unique acoustic properties of the space and to design a solution that fits the specific needs of the project.

​

2) Plan / Consider the Environment and Design of your Spaces, and the factors that may affect Acoustics:
 

  • What is the Dimensions of the space?
    The dimensions (i.e. length, width and ceiling height) of a space can affect the reflection, absorption and diffusion of the sound waves, and ultimately impact the acoustics of the space

    An open space may allow sound to travel more freely and create excessive reverberation, while an enclosed space may cause sound to be trapped and create unwanted echoes

    Long and narrow spaces or spaces with higher ceilings have longer reverberation times, which leads to decreased speech intelligibility and sound clarity

     

  • What is the Size of the Space?
    The size (i.e. overall area) of a space determines the distribution of sound energy and the amount of air available for sound waves to travel through

    Rooms that are too small create high levels of sound pressure, leading to increased noise and decreased speech intelligibility. Rooms that are too large on the other hand, tend ot have excessive reverberation, leading to a lack of clarity in speech and music

     

  • What is the Shape of the Space?
    The shape of the space can impact sound distribution, diffusion and resonance. Rectangular rooms with parallel walls tend to have more echo and reverberation while rooms with angled walls or irregular shapes tend to have inconsistent sound quality and clarity
     

  • What is the Layout of the Space? Optimise it to improve speech intelligibility and noise control
    Seat placements - Desks or workstations that face each other directly are more likely to creating sound reflections than those that face a wall or partition.

    Grouping - create dedicated spaces and areas for similar activities (e.g. socialising, eating, holding meetings) and focused work.  


    Partitioning - Sound-absorbing / diffusing partitions can be used to create private spaces or to separate areas with different noise levels. 
     

  • What is the Potential / Actual Noise Sources and its proximity to the Space?
    Identify the source and measure the noise levels of it if necessary 
     

  • What is the Type of Lighting and HVAC system used for the Space?
    The Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems and the type of lighting used in a space can affect its acoustics as they may introduce vibrations and noise (e.g. rumbling, whistling, buzzing, humming) that can interfere with speech intelligibility and music clarity

     

  • What is the Space's Fire Rating Requirements?
    Fire Rating Requirements can limit the materials that can be used for sound treatment, such as wall and ceiling panels. This can impact the ability to achieve optimal acoustic conditions

     

  • What is the acoustic criteria to met for environmental accreditations required
    Environmental accreditations, such as LEED or BREEAM, may require specific acoustic criteria to be met, such as sound insulation and speech intelligibility. These requirements may impact the design and materials used for sound treatment.

​​

2) Determine the Acoustic Needs of the Users of each of your Space

  • Determine whether acoustic / speech privacy is necessary for confidential conversations or focused work
     

  • Ensure that emergency alarms and announcements can be heard clearly throughout the workspace.
     

  • For spaces with multiple functions, such as a multi-purpose rooms, consider the room's potential use case and consider using different types of materials at different areas of the room to optimise acoustics for each use

​


4) Evaluate the Surface Materials used in the Workspace, including walls, floors, and ceilings, and determine whether they need to be modified to improve the acoustic environment.


5) Determine whether Acoustic Solutions are required, such as:

 

  • Sound Masking Systems

  • Soundproofing

  • Acoustic Materials Specification

  • Biophilic for Wellness



  •  Consider the 
    Acoustics versus aesthetics

  • Soundproofing - prevents noise from travelling between spaces

 

At Decor Systems, we try to strike a balance between acoustic panels that not only manage sound but are also aesthetically pleasing. So, once you select the rating and provide our project consultants with a brief on what you’re trying to achieve, the Decor team can work with you to create a solution that blends in with the aesthetics of the space you are designing.

When it comes to specifying acoustics, there are many factors to consider. Decor Systems should be viewed as an extension of your team so we can work together to ensure that you achieve exactly what it is you’re after.

Top tips for specifying acoustics:

  • Understand the acoustical properties of the materials you are considering, such as sound absorption and transmission.

  • Determine the required noise level reductions for the space and select materials that will meet those requirements.

  • Consider the environmental impact of the materials and choose options that are sustainable and have low emissions.

  • Take into account the aesthetic design of the space and choose materials that complement the overall look and feel.

  • For a space with multiple functions, such as a conference room that is also used for music performances, consider using different types of materials for different areas of the room to optimise acoustics for each use.

  • Work with an acoustic consultant for site measurements and recommendations for material specification.

  • Careful attention should be paid to details, such as the proper installation of acoustic materials to ensure optimal performance.

  • Understand the needs of the space: Is it going to be a space for collaboration and communication or for concentration or creativity?

  • Be aware that sound, like water, will find the weakest point through. Therefore, voids in ceilings and ducts need to be addressed.

  • Understand that sound travels through any medium, not just air. Structure-borne sound needs to be addressed separately from airborne sound.

  • Good sound attenuation relies on density and air tightness.

  • Consider allowing background sound into meeting rooms to provide masking and privacy for room-to-room attenuation.

  • Sound absorption needs to be considered alongside sound insulation.

  • Employ a competent professional acoustic consultant. Your Decor Systems consultant will be delighted to assist you with this.

7 design tips for the best architectural acoustics

  1. Watch out for sound reflections. Straight surfaces reflect sounds back into the central space making sound clarity muddy.

  2. Select acoustical treatment carefully. Different materials absorb sound frequencies differently. Make sure your acoustical treatments are absorbing the right sound frequencies.

  3. Diminish echoes when necessary. Be aware that sounds travelling within 30 milliseconds of each other are perceived without an echo. Sounds travelling after the 30-millisecond threshold become echoes of the original sound.

  4. Don’t let other building systems get in the way. Noise control is important to keep in check in other building systems (such as HVAC systems) operate. Keep such clashing noises to a minimum.

  5. Keep objects or other obstructions out of the way. Objects that obstruct a sound path can block high-frequency sounds. (Low-frequency sounds can bend around objects.)

  6. Get good pattern control. Make sure sound systems for a room get good sound coverage. This will prevent feedback and other sound distortions.

  7. For out-of-the-way listening areas, get distributed sound systems. Such ‘delay-fill’ speakers operate with an electronic delay, so the sound matches and is synchronised.

The importance of incorporating acoustic requirements at the design stage

Involving acousticians in the early stage of project design will ensure that you achieve optimal sound performance and avoid costly and unattractive Band-Aid solutions after project completion.

It is not always about reducing noise, but more about achieving the right acoustic outcome to make the space fit for the purpose for which it is built.

When working hand-in-hand with an acoustician, architects can achieve a sound acoustic outcome, overcoming many challenges that are commonly faced in the process.

The Surry Hills Community Centre, designed by Frances-Jones Morehen Thorp (FJMT) was intended to meet the various needs of the local community and includes an integrated local library, community centre and childcare centre. Each space within the centre has very different acoustic requirements, which was a key challenge of the project.

Decor Systems products were specified by FJMT to assist with achieving various acoustic qualities for different users within the centre. In an article by Architecture & Design, it was addressed that in this project “the inherent high-energy and high-noise of both the childcare and community centre zones require acoustic absorption to allow users to engage and interact without excessive noise carrying into the library. To achieve this, the architects used pre-finished, fire-rated, perforated acoustic panels (DecorZen and DecorStyle – by Decor Systems) extensively throughout these spaces, achieving up to 88 per cent of incidental noise absorption.”

Your acoustic checklist

It is imperative that you plan ahead and clearly scope out your requirements in view of making the right product system specifications at the conceptual stage of your project.

Retrofitting acoustic panel systems following completion can be expensive and time-consuming, will interfere with schedules, and often has a ‘Band-Aid’ look about it. Hence the need to clearly delineate and analyse potential issues beforehand in view of intelligently addressing them at the most appropriate time.

 

​Acoustic Checklist
Accomplish the most important important aspects of acoustic comfort: sound absorption. Look to your big-ticket items that account for the most real estate first, particularly the ceiling, where baffles, stretched fabric, cellulose spray and even acoustic light panels can be great solutions.  

Plan ahead what you need to know:

  • Room dimensions

  • Ceiling height

  • Type of lighting

  • Ventilation/ductwork

  • Fire rating requirements

  • Environmental accreditations required

  • Potential issues

  • New build or retrofit?

  • Current sound treatments
     

Diagnosis – What are your main sound issues?

Part one:

  • Echo

  • Excessive noise

  • Reverberation

  • Sound quality

  • Speech intelligibility

  • Hearing protection

If any of these is a critical issue, you will need sound absorption products.

Part two:

  • Sound transfer

  • Low frequencies

  • Impact noise

  • Vibration noise

If any of these is a critical issue, you will need sound isolation products.


In a built environment, acoustic treatment typically addresses the following three acoustic issues:

space planning - loud and focus spatial planning shldnt

Generic principles of sound


 
In a built environment, acoustic treatment typically addresses the following three acoustic issues:
​

How can we help?

Tell us what you need.

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