6 Key factors… - Wallworks.com

When designing and selecting materials for new spaces or redesigning and refacing old ones there are 6 key elements to consider.

1) Reflection

Straight smooth surfaces reflect sounds back into the central space making sound clarity "muddy". This includes but is certainly not limited to wall surfaces, tile, concrete, glass, desks, laminate flooring, black or white boards, stainless or metal type features, stone. These materials are sleek and sensational, but they can make some spaces virtually unusable if the amount of reflected noise compromises privacy, such as from within a board room, reception or meeting area.

2) Selection

3) Echo

Sounds traveling within 30 milliseconds of each other are perceived without echo. Sounds traveling after the 30 millisecond threshold become echoes of the original sound. Again, consider the surfaces that will most likely reflect sound and how they are positioned. You may wish to add baffles, acoustic clouds or panels that will interrupt the path of the wave as it reflects.

4) Direction

Where sound in the area of design should travel to. For example, office conversations that needlessly travel to employee office spaces can be quite a distraction. Simple acoustic desk screens can diminish this type of sound if placed properly between work areas although more sophisticated solutions are also available. Explore your options with an expert on noise mitigation.

5) Obstruction

6) Aesthetics

It is not necessary to sacrifice Aesthetics and Acoustics or vice versa. The range of colors and materials, styles and applications are virtually endless and often the acoustics are hidden behind or integrally in the architectural or interior decor of a space, so undetected. One might only notice that it is comfortable to have a conversation, or experience a calm feeling inside an office area. If you need some help selecting materials or orienting the acoustic design, Wallworks professionals can help you cover all the bases. Talk to one of our product experts today.

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