Acoustics Research | Noopur Suckhlecha

To understand a brief definition, acoustics related to design is the study of sound and vibration and how one could control this sound and vibration for the purpose of the design. In architecture, what’s interesting is that a lot of attention is given to visual (sight) and feel (touch) of the place whereas sound, taste and smell rank equally important in terms of our senses. (sight, ACOUSTICS, smell, taste and  touch). With the advancements in technology the ongoing research work in sound and how it could contribute to design is worth understanding.

In nerdy language, sound acts as waves that reflect around a space bounded by walls or other solid objects (could be other state too) and forms a spectrum. This spectrum determines the sound quality of any space.  However, if sound waves overlap into a projected space, this could lead to a distortion in the sound spectrum and that’s when sound turns into noise. In design and especially in theatre design, it is important to consider this overlap of sound waves.

Some pointers I found off the internet that is a complete NO-NO in terms of sound and design.

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 traveling within 30 milliseconds of each other are perceived without echo. Sounds traveling 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 as other building systems (like 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 feed-back 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 synchronized.

Source: http://sensingarchitecture.com/649/7-design-tips-for-best-architectural-acoustics/

Another aspect of architecture and sound was very well brought forward by a symposium help at Yale University called “the Sound of Architecture.” The idea of architecture making people listen was in question. A software was developed called SoundLab which lets you 3D Studio model and determine the play of sound in architecture which I thought was pretty interesting. 

An awesome architecture firm called BDP based in UK specialize in sound acoustics related to architecture. One of their project which involves restoration of a Town Hall is I think a good example of acoustics leading to sustainable design in architecture. Leeds Grand Theatre has an invisible acoustic absorption on the rear wall. I controls the reverberation time and provides better sound quality. “Acoustic plaster is trowelled over a mineral fibre backing to provide a seamless clean aesthetic which works acoustically.“

Note: I did NOT know that Architectural Acoustics where people actually make a living helping Architects like us to solve architectural acoustics of certain places is a thing. Wow.