Acoustic design of enclosed spaces: what you should know

Acoustic design of enclosed spaces: what you should know

The acoustic comfort of a room is a criterion for its quality. We have all been in rooms of poor acoustic quality that are unpleasant to stay in. The low acoustic quality of a room is usually due to long reverberation, which is the result of the multiple reflections that sound undergoes during propagation from the source to the receiver.

What leads to the construction of spaces of low acoustic quality? Lack or inadequacy of acoustic design is the main cause. In the case of inadequacy, it is common for materials with acoustic properties to be incorrectly selected and installed, on the advice of people who do not have the appropriate knowledge and expertise. Acoustics is a field of physics, which in practice means that acoustic design is based on the knowledge and understanding of physical phenomena that people who have studied acoustics possess.

What happens if we assign the acoustic design of a room to an acoustics consultant? We will end up with a space of high acoustic quality, which will be properly documented. The choice of acoustic indicators will have been determined by the use of the space, the scientific and technical literature and the client's needs. Acoustics simulation software will have been used to select materials based on the needs of the site in collaboration with other engineers, decorators, etc. who may be involved in the development of a complete construction. In the case of acoustic modification of an existing space, measurements will have been performed using specialized equipment to measure acoustic indicators of the original state of the space. It should be noted that the selection of building materials with specific acoustic properties contributes to avoid the costs required for spaces where no acoustic design was carried out.

As it may be assumed, cooperating with an acoustic consultant adds value to the quality of your space. If you are interested in ensuring high acoustic quality and comfort of a space, please contact us.