Acoustics and interior design: thinking space for a better sound experience

Bricks that absorb noise pollution

Inspired by the principle of Helmholtz resonators, an American researcher and inventor has developed a material to absorb noise pollution, particularly in urban environments. As explained in Hackaday's article, these perforated bricks capture and dissipate sound waves by transforming sound energy into heat. This process is particularly effective in absorbing certain frequencies, notably those generated by road traffic noise.

Although initially designed for outdoor environments, this innovation can be applied to indoor spaces to improve the acoustics of buildings such as hotels and luxury boutiques. By integrating resonator bricks into walls or ceilings, it is possible to create more serene environments, where unwanted sounds are attenuated without compromising design.

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The importance of acoustics in retail and hospitality

In the retail sector, where acoustic ambience contributes directly to the customer experience, good spatial design is essential. A prime example is the Aesop boutiques, which work with renowned architects to combine aesthetics and acoustics. These often minimalist spaces are designed with natural materials such as wood or stone, which not only add an elegant touch but also serve to absorb noise. Such attention to acoustics creates a soothing ambience, allowing customers to enjoy a unique sensory experience while exploring the brand's products. For example, in the Aesop Lyon Place de la République boutique, designed by Belgian studio Nicolas Schuybroek Architects: "The room is upholstered in wool felt, whose softness and sound-absorbing qualities add both warmth and hospitality to the space".

In thehospitality industry, acoustics are also a key factor, particularly in luxury hotels, where every detail is designed to provide an immersive, relaxing experience. Materials chosen for walls and floors, such as marble and thick fabrics, are not only aesthetically pleasing but also help to attenuate unwanted reverberations, creating a hushed, intimate ambience. For example, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge in New York features a nature-inspired design with sound-absorbing materials, creating an oasis of calm amid the hustle and bustle of the city. TheAman Tokyo in Japan, meanwhile, uses traditional Japanese design elements such as shoji screens and tatami mats to improve sound insulation and create a peaceful atmosphere for guests.

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A multi-sensorial approach to interior spaces

Integrating acoustic solutions into interior design is essential to delivering a successful sound experience, whether in retail or hospitality. Delivering a beautiful sound experience is all very well, but you also need to take the time to properly qualify the space in which it will be delivered. By combining acoustic innovations with in-depth consideration of materials and space geometry, interior designers can create environments where sound and design reinforce each other, offering complete multi-sensory experiences.

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Acoustics and sound identity: the winning combo for major retail and hospitality brands

For architectural projects where acoustics play a central role, calling in a specialist sound design agency offers many advantages. An acoustic design agency can not only carry out a complete acoustic study to ensure that materials and spaces optimize sound diffusion, but also create a unique sound identity that enhances the user experience.

By collaborating with an acoustic design office, interior architects can ensure that the space is not only visually aesthetically pleasing, but also offers a harmonious sound experience. This is particularly crucial in hotels or luxury boutiques, where sound marketing andbrand identity play a key role in customer engagement.

A sound design agency can, for example, create a customized sound signature, helping to reinforce thesonic identity of a brand or location. This kind of sound branding reinforces the coherence of the customer experience, while maximizing the impact of sensory sound marketing.

By integrating a sound branding approach, a sound identity agency helps to define and refine the brand image through music, sounds and soundscapes. In addition, a well-conducted acoustic study ensures that the design of the space supports this strategy, avoiding echoes, reverberation or any other noise detrimental to the overall experience.

For examples of successfulsound identity, whether in the hotel, retail or even public transport sectors, it's essential to work with a specialist agency capable of marrying technology and creativity, ensuring that each space reflects its musical identity while offering an optimal sound experience.

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