Facade acoustics

A building’s facade plays a key role in acoustic performance, controlling noise transfer between the inside and outside while also providing a potential flanking sound transmission path between adjacent rooms. 

Getting facade acoustic performance right protects occupants from external noise while limiting sound transfer between internal spaces, allowing these requirements to be addressed during design rather than after the building is in use.  

We regularly provide acoustic performance specifications based on BS8233:2014, BB93, HTM08-01, planning conditions and other relevant guidance, assess flanking sound performance in line with BS EN ISO 12354, and assess facades in line with ProPG and ANC AVO guidance.

Plant noise control

Noise and vibration from plant and equipment ,such as ventilation systems, air conditioning and generators, can significantly affect occupant comfort and the acoustic quality of a space if not properly controlled. 

Assessing plant noise and vibration during design allows appropriate control measures to be incorporated before systems are installed, helping achieve the required acoustic conditions from the outset. 

We assess noise transfer from MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery), VRV (Variable Refrigerant Volume), and FCU (Fan Coil Unit) systems, plant rooms, generators, and air source heat pumps and chillers, and investigate and resolve existing noise issues when they arise.

Building vibration isolation design

Vibration from external sources, such as railways or road transportation, can affect occupant comfort and the performance of sensitive equipment if not properly isolated. 

We advise on whole building isolation from railways, box in box constructions, and the isolation of sensitive equipment.

Compliance monitoring and reporting

We monitor facade works as part of the Client Monitoring Team (CMT) for compliance with Building Regulations, fire and safety requirements, material standards and project specifications. Regular reporting helps clients maintain certainty and address any emerging issues early. 

PAVA system design

A PAVA (public address and voice alarm system) is only effective if it delivers a message that people can understand clearly.

If speech intelligibility isn’t assessed properly, a premium PAVA system can still fail to communicate clearly, an issue that becomes particularly critical in an emergency, when messages need to be clearly understood.

We complete 3D acoustic modelling of the space, assess speech intelligibility based on surface finishes and internal noise levels, and advise on the most effective strategy for the PAVA system.

Acoustics, ventilation and overheating

Balancing acoustics with effective ventilation and temperature control is essential for occupant comfort, particularly as buildings are designed to manage overheating risk. 

Treating these requirements separately can lead to a solution that solves one problem while creating another, for example, a ventilation strategy that controls overheating, but introduces unacceptable noise levels. 

We carry out acoustic assessment of ventilation systems, design strategies to mitigate HVAC noise, and undertake overheating analysis in line with Approved Document O.

Environmental Accreditations Support

Achieving environmental or sustainability accreditations such as BREEAM, Quality Home Mark, SKA Ratings and LEED can be difficult to achieve without acoustic planning. 

We offer comprehensive acoustic support to help you comply with the relevant acoustic requirements in these standards, including:

Our services include:

• Acoustic design reviews & recommendations
• Noise impact assessments for various environmental standards
• Tailored solutions to meet specific accreditation criteria

Acoustics for MMC Projects

MMC (Modern Methods of Construction) offer real speed and efficiency benefits, but several factors need careful consideration to achieve good acoustic design within this approach. 

In MMC, the same design and construction details are often manufactured and repeated across multiple units. If an acoustic issue isn’t identified early, it can be replicated across the development, significantly increasing the scale of any remedial work required. 

We assess the sound insulation performance of proposed build-ups and review junction details between different construction elements. The earlier we’re involved, the more easily our advice can be incorporated.

Open plan office acoustics

Open plan offices can foster collaboration, but can also suffer from excessive noise if the acoustic environment isn’t considered. 

Getting the balance right between openness and privacy is important for occupant wellbeing, concentration and productivity. 

We specialise in creating acoustic environments that balance openness and privacy, including assessment of existing acoustic conditions, design of noise control measures, and implementation of sound masking systems.

School, college and university acoustics

Educational environments require specific acoustic considerations to support learning and reduce distraction. 

Good acoustic design supports speech intelligibility and concentration, helping students hear teaching clearly while reducing distraction from unwanted noise. 

We provide acoustic assessments for classrooms and lecture halls, design soundproofing solutions, provide advice to meet the requirements of  Building Bulletin 93, and set acoustic criteria based on end user requirements.