Project: Acoustic treatment for a theatre/auditorium
Volume of the theatre: 780 m³
Acoustic issues: High reverberation times due to the structural design of the location
A common problem in theatres is reverberation, which occurs when sound waves bounce off surfaces and come together, creating an unpleasant overlap of sounds and voices.
Whether a new theatre is being designed or an existing one renovated, acoustics should be a central feature in the architectural design.
The case study presented concerns the acoustic treatment of a theatre measuring approx. 780 m³. In the first instance, measurements are taken to identify the Reverberation Time (Tr) within the theatre prior to treatment. Photometric analysis shows that the average Unoccupied Tr is approximately 2.75 s, which is above the levels required for speech and music to be heard clearly by the entire audience, from the front rows to the back of the theatre.
As illustrated by the graph below, with the installation of 38 suspended Silente panels (size 120x120x5), or, alternatively, 77 suspended Sail panels (size 170x120x120), it is possible to achieve a Tr of 1.15 s at an average of 250-2000 Hz, which is compliant with the optimum values defined by DIN 18041:2004-05. Acoustic solutions can be customised in the colours and prints of the upholstery fabrics, allowing the acoustic products to adapt to the style and appearance of each location.
| Reverberation time without panels | Reverberation time with panels |
| 2,75 s | 1,15 s |
