How Architecture Affects a Building
Architectural acoustics assist in creating the most pleasing sound environment possible. It makes use of the geometry of the room, as well as consideration for the materials used in construction, to produce the best sound outcome.
The sound in the room will interact differently with different surfaces, and this must all be taken into account depending on how a person wishes to use the room to get the best experience of sound from it.
Principles of Architectural Acoustics
Several principles are used in constructing a room to maximise its acoustics, being reverberation, sound absorption, and insulation.
Reverberation relates to the time that sound takes to dissipate in a room. Sound will reflect off surfaces and bounce back into the room, affecting the clarity of the sound, and one’s ability to be able to hear the sound properly.
Some buildings will be better suited to surfaces and architectural acoustic surfaces which allow for high reverberation, like in a concert hall, where it is pleasing for the sound to reflect off the harder surfaces. Other buildings though would be better suited to have low reverberation, such as in lecture halls, where speaking and communication must be heard clearly.
To reduce reverberation, sound absorbing materials are used, incorporating softer, more insulated, and sponge-like surfaces into the construction. The porous nature of these materials will absorb some of the sounds so that it does not starkly reverberate back into the room. It creates a more calm and peaceful environment where some of the sounds are absorbed before it is heard.
Sound insulation in architectural acoustics is another way in which a room can be built to prevent sound from entering or leaving a room. This is done by making sure the surrounding surfaces can absorb some of the sounds, preventing them from escaping entirely. Sealing places where sound can escape is important as sound can escape through areas like air ventilation systems or windows. Making sure that these are sealed correctly goes a long way in ensuring that a room is properly insulated. The type of wall that is used can also contribute to a room’s sound insulation.
Making sure your building is designed and built in the best way to maximise the sound for its purpose is the best way to ensure that the acoustics of your building will be a success.
Contact us today to see how we can help you with any architectural acoustics assistance that you need.