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Building Acoustics

Full Acoustic Design Support for Building Projects through all
RIBA Stages 1-7.

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Facade Acoustics

The facade is the element of a building that separates the internal and external acoustic environments.  Whether it is protecting bedrooms from noise from trains, planes and cars or keeping music within a bar, the acoustic performance of the facade will require careful specification. 

In addition to this, the facade can provide a sound transmission path between adjacent rooms. 

At CDC we regularly: 

  • Provide acoustic performance specifications based on achieving requirements of BS8233:2014, BB93, HTM08-01, Planning Conditions and other guidance documents. 
  • Assess flanking sound performance in line with requirements of BS EN ISO 12354. 
  • Assess facade in line with ProPG and ANC AVO guidance. 

Plant Noise
Control

Building services noise and vibration within buildings can be a significant source of distraction for occupants if not controlled. We have in-depth knowledge of systems to provide cost-effective solutions to the issues.

The support we offer includes:

  • Assessment of noise transfer from MVHR, VRV & FCU systems
  • Assessment of noise from plant rooms
  • Generator noise and vibration control
  • Noise assessments of air source heat pumps and chillers
  • Investigation and resolution of noise problems

Building Vibration Isolation Design

We have the technical knowledge and experience to advise on isolation of buildings from sources of vibration:

These include

  • Whole building isolation from railways
  • Box in Box constructions
  • Isolation of sensitive equipment Plant isolation

Public Address & Voice Alarm System Design

Installing an expensive public address and voice alarm system will be pointless if the message being relayed to the audience isn’t intelligible.

CDC can:

  • Complete 3D acoustic modelling of the space
  • Assess the speech intelligibility, determined by surface finishes and internal noise levels within the space
  • Advise on the most efficient use of the PAVA system to achieve the desired performance
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Acoustics for MMC (Modern Methods of Construction) Projects

It’s easy to be swept up in the speed and efficiency of modern methods of construction, but there are several factors that need to be considered for quality acoustic design.  

Our acoustic specialists can help with: 

  • Assessing sound insulation performance proposed build-ups 
  • Reviewing junction details between all the different construction elements 

With the emphasis in the design phase of MMC, the earlier we can get involved in the acoustic design the easier our advice can be incorporated. 

Open-plan office
Acoustics

Open plan offices can foster collaboration but can also suffer from excessive noise. We specialise in creating acoustic environments that balance openness and privacy.

Our services include:

  • Assessment of existing acoustic conditions
  • Design of noise control measures
  • Implementation of sound masking systems

  • Read our article on open-plan office acoustics here.

School, College, and University Acoustics

Educational environments require specific acoustic considerations to enhance learning and reduce distractions. We provide expert services to create optimal learning environments.

Our offerings include:

  • Acoustic assessments for classrooms & lecture halls
  • Design of soundproofing solutions
  • Compliance with Building Bulletin 93
  • Setting acoustic criteria based on end user requirements

Acoustics, ventilation, and overheating design

Balancing acoustics with effective ventilation and temperature control is crucial for occupant comfort. We integrate these elements into our design solutions.

Our services include:

  • Acoustic assessment of ventilation systems
  • Design strategies to mitigate noise from HVAC systems
  • Overheating analysis & solutions (compliance with Approved Document O)

  • Read our article on ADO here

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Achieving Environmental Accreditations

Achieving environmental or sustainability accreditations like BREEAM, Quality Home Mark, SKA Ratings and LEED can be challenging without proper acoustic planning. We offer comprehensive acoustic support to help you comply with the relevant acoustic requirements in such standards.

Our services include:

  • Acoustic design reviews & recommendations
  • Noise impact assessments for various environmental standards
  • Tailored solutions to meet specific accreditation criteria