What Are The Effects Of Acoustics In Buildings?
The best designs always serve a purpose. When it comes to designing buildings, functionality takes priority. Whether you are designing an office, a home, hospital, school or entertainment venue, it should always meet its purpose. Aesthetics are important but you should never compromise on functionality. When designing any space, there are a lot of aspects that need to be considered to guarantee that it’s perfectly fit for its purpose. The acoustics are the most important.
Simply because a building looks amazing internally and externally, it might not be a pleasant place to work or live. A beautiful apartment might fail to sell if there is a lot of noise. On the other hand, if there is noise pollution in an office, employee productivity will reduce considerably. Sound affects everyone in different ways. Some might be subtle while others are obvious.
Sound can be used to evoke an emotional response. Sometimes it might make a home a beautiful place to live in. Also, it can make or break a concert hall. In the worst-case scenario, the sound will end up damaging our health. Don’t overlook the effects of acoustics in a building. Here are a few reasons why acoustics are important in any building.
Why Are Acoustics Important?
There is sound all around us. However, if we want to enrich the experience, you will be forced to reduce the noise to enjoy some peace and quiet. A bespoke approach is the best way to guarantee the best acoustics in any building. Some buildings such as concert venues, theatres and cinemas need specific acoustic designs to allow the sound to bloom. Note that, what works in a music venue will not work at a restaurant.
Hard reflective surfaces are perfect for a dancefloor but they are miserable when it comes to dining establishments. Office buildings, hospitals and schools are also designed with varying acoustic needs. Sound is amazing and also a shared experience but might have a negative impact in some cases.
That’s why you need to work with an acoustic consultant when designing any building. An acoustic consultant will ensure that the interior and structural elements use the right blend of reflective and absorptive materials to guarantee an optimal sound landscape. They will be tailored to a budget and the unique requirements of the setting. If you are looking for an acoustic consultant and are based in London then see London acoustic consultants.
Reverberation
Reverberation is one of the most important things to consider when looking at the acoustics of any building. With time, sound waves diminish but it varies depending on various internal elements such as ceiling, floors, soft furnishings, furniture and people. Depending on how long it takes to fade, sound can be bounced around for a longer period or be shorter and crisp. When reverberation is analysed, it’s easy to determine speech intelligibility. It refers to what a listener can hear and understand. It’s important for musicians, public speakers and teachers.
Health Issues Associated With Exposure To Excessive Noise
Noise disturbance is miserable to live with and often a silent menace. It often causes short and long-term health issues. Whether it’s a sharp and brief burst of sound coming from a building site or a prolonged exposure on a lower level, the impact of noise pollution can be life or career-changing. Some of the health issues caused by exposure to excessive noise include the following.
• Hearing loss
• Tinnitus
• Stress
• Sleep disturbance
• Obesity
• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• Cognitive impairments and behavioural issues in children