However, despite growing awareness, there’s often confusion about the correct products to specify – which can easily be misunderstood or overlooked. With that in mind, we’ve answered some of our most commonly asked questions, to help you, the reader, to create the perfect acoustic environment.
Why is acoustic design so important, and why should it be prioritised?
Acoustic design is the art of fine-tuning sound for specific interior spaces. Although attention is often given to aesthetics, usability and energy efficiency, acoustics are often neglected, having a large impact on the people using and occupying a space.
What many fail to realise is that constant noise exposure can be extremely harmful – negatively affecting both physical and mental health, causing stress and discomfort. This has also been evidenced in our multiple research papers on the impact of noise. From our 2024 study, two in three workers admitted that too much noise was affecting their work productivity. A quarter of staff also revealed that the issue had led to poor-quality work. What’s clear is that a huge percentage of the UK workforce is crying out for well-considered acoustics.
Why is it important to consult an acoustic expert?
How a space sounds, is just as important as how it looks. Many aesthetically pleasing buildings can lack the acoustic comfort needed for long-term use, making communication difficult due to overwhelming noise. But when sound design is done right, it transforms spaces into places people love to be.
Working alongside acoustic experts can make this possible – leaning on their extensive knowledge, they can suggest the right acoustic strategy for your space and highlight ways to combat noise so they remain inclusive for everyone.
What are the key architectural considerations for good acoustic design?
For architects, maintaining design integrity is paramount and it’s essential that acoustic solutions can work with any surface, allowing for flawless curves and shapes without compromising aesthetics. This means opting for solutions such as acoustic sprays, which are incredibly effective at controlling sound reverberation and echo – the main cause of deafening noise.
There’s also a growing trend towards spaces that provide quiet contemplation and personal privacy. Acoustic sprays can come in a range of textures, offering different levels of sound absorption to suit individual needs, so it’s a good idea to enlist expert guidance to help you make the best choice.
How can we assess the appropriate acoustic requirements for a given space?
To ensure optimal acoustics, many commercial projects now consult with specialists who can specify the necessary treatments based on space calculations and intended use. For those without access to acoustic consultants, some offer free appraisals, giving recommendations on suitable specifications. Additionally, some offer acoustic modelling services to visualise the sound performance, helping architects to make more informed decisions.
How can acoustic design be integrated into the building process to achieve optimal results?
The success of a project hinges on early consideration of acoustic solutions. Incorporating acoustics into the initial design phases will ensure a superior outcome. To streamline this process, specification platforms like NBS Source can be invaluable, allowing acoustic design to be integrated from the outset rather than as an afterthought.
What are the common mistakes in predicting the acoustic performance of a building?
The shape of the substrate can significantly impact acoustic performance, yet it’s often overlooked. We frequently receive enquiries from architects who have been advised to use a Class A absorber and have consequently over specified the required depth of our product. When applied to profiled or ribbed metal sheets, premium products significantly outperform the worst-case published acoustic data for concrete slabs. By leveraging technical expertise, architects can receive value-engineered solutions, saving on material depth, labour and project duration.
What are the issues involved in retrofitting existing buildings to improve environmental performance?
Spaces with heavy congestion of services often present the greatest acoustic challenges. To ensure swift installation, it’s best to apply acoustic treatments before these services are installed. When existing services are present, premium companies will prioritise careful wrapping and protection before installation. Retrofitting acoustic solutions can also impact building operations; however, experienced acoustic specialists will be able to complete work with a minimal amount of downtime.
