Project: Acoustic correction of a canteen area
Volume of the venue: 236 m³
Acoustic problem: High reverberation times
The canteen areas within the companies are designed to provide employees with a common area for sharing a convivial experience. However, the shape of the spaces, the presence of numerous reflecting surfaces and the few furnishings present can cause high reverberation times, inducing users to raise their voices to be heard and increasing background noise. Many studies have shown that a well proportioned canteen area that meets acoustic comfort criteria reduces employee stress, making it a relaxing environment in which to take a break from work.
The acoustic correction project proposed is for a canteen with a volume of about 236 m³. The analysis of sound levels conducted at the design stage calculated the reverberation time before the treatment and the results that could be obtained by installing Caruso Acoustic sound-absorbing panels. The table below shows the reverberation time (RT) calculated in the canteen before the acoustic treatment and the subsequent reverberation time following the installation of the Silente acoustic panels, appropriately arranged on both the ceiling and the wall.
| Average reverberation time without panels | Average reverberation time with panels |
| 2,34 s | 0,92 s |
Examining the average 250-2000 Hz that regards speech frequencies, it is possible to obtain an average RT of about 0.92 s, with a curve trend in these frequencies aligned with the optimal parameters. With the installation of 15 Silente sound-absorbing panels, on the ceiling and wall, measuring 120x120x5 cm, it is possible to obtain a sound level reduction of 4.03 dB. The application of sound-absorbing material to the ceiling and wall aids the correct distribution of sound throughout the entire canteen, allowing for a significant reduction in acoustic reverberation.
Caruso Acoustic’s acoustic solutions are ideal for collective environments with acoustic pollution problems, thanks to the numerous customisation options in terms of size and colour, which make it possible to complete the room design by blending smoothly with the rest of the furnishings.