Environments dedicated to activities such as cooking demo and hotel or restaurant training could present particular challenges from the viewpoint of acoustics. These spaces, often characterised by large volumes and reflective surfaces, are intended for noisy activities such as cooking classes, practical lessons and food tastings.
The main problem is the excessive reverberation of the sound; this causes a high level of background noise that compromises the intelligibility of the voice of the person who is speaking or explaining. Moreover, ambient noise can disturb and tire both the speakers and the audience present.
In this case study, the acoustic correction of a 201 m3 cooking class area was evaluated. Prior to the intervention, reverberation times were very high, equal to 1.90 seconds. A situation of poor acoustic comfort that required targeted intervention.
The solution involved the installation of 12 Silente sound-absorbing panels measuring 120x120x5 cm, applied on the ceiling or at the perimeter walls. To these were added 2 free-standing Menhir sound-absorbing totems measuring 40x40x200H cm, to be positioned according to different needs.
Thanks to this specially dimensioned configuration of sound-absorbing products, reverberation times were reduced to 0.75 seconds, resulting in a sound level drop of 4.05 dB. By reducing the propagation of unwanted sound, a quieter and more comfortable environment could be created. The result is a welcoming and functional space, suitable for any kind of event or practical lesson.