In recent years, it has become increasingly popular to redevelop industrial buildings and convert them for different uses, including restaurants and canteens. This is due to the current need to use the buildings in a more sustainable way, promoting the adaptive reuse of space. The buildings, however, can be very noisy places due to their structural design and proper acoustic treatment can be vital in ensuring comfortable surroundings.
In this case study, a project to upgrade the acoustics of an industrial venue around 676 m3 in size, which has high ceilings and is being used as a canteen, was proposed.
Based on a phonometric analysis, the reverberation times in the unoccupied venue were determined and the acoustic treatment that would be most effective in reducing the overall noise level and improving sound quality was identified.
The following table and graph show the reverberation time (Tr) measured in the room and the optimum reverberation time calculated, which can be obtained by installing 18 Silente sound-absorbing panels measuring 240x120x5 cm suspended from the ceiling. With this configuration, Tr can be decreased from 1.41 s to 0.80 s (frequencies between 250-2000 Hz), with a sound level reduction of 2.49 dB.
| Average reverberation time without panels | Average reverberation time with panels |
| 1,41 s | 0,80 s |
In conclusion, a number of factors need to be taken into account when upgrading the acoustics in an industrial building. These include the type of noise generated, the size and shape of the space and the intended use of the room. Caruso Acoustic offers a wide range of sound-absorbing solutions that are highly customisable and respond effectively to various design requirements.