Assessing speech intelligibility in communal spaces: a building acoustics case study
Client: University of Southampton
Sector: building acoustics
Our building acoustics experts oversaw the modelling and testing of the foyer and atrium acoustics of the Engineering Centre at the University of Southampton Science Park. We demonstrated the accuracy of our prediction of interior acoustics in communal spaces – vital to enabling effective communication. This precision enables us to offer highly effective building acoustic design services.
Get in touch to discuss your building acoustic modelling and design requirements.
The challenge: modelling and measuring speech intelligibility in large open spaces
Most of us will have experienced the effects of poor architectural acoustic design in public buildings. Whether trying to hear conversation in a busy restaurant or networking in a conference venue, excessive reverberation can make it difficult to hear and communicate, creating stress and fatigue. Acoustic modelling and testing can ensure spaces are fit for purpose by maximising speech intelligibility.
Our solution: advanced acoustic modelling and design
Our expert consultants took the initiative to showcase our advanced acoustic modelling and testing capabilities by predicting the acoustic parameters that dictate noise levels and speech intelligibility in communal areas of buildings such as atrium/foyer spaces. We carried out acoustics measurements in tandem to validate the accuracy of the modelling.
For the purposes of the demonstration, our specialists both predicted and measured the ‘Reverberation Time (RT)’ and ‘Speech Transmission Index (STI)’ of the Engineering Centre atrium/foyer space within the building.
The RT parameter determines the time it takes for the sound level within a space to decay by 60 decibels. Guidance given in Building Bulletin 93 (BB93) recommends that the RT in purpose-built atrium spaces does not exceed 1.5 seconds at mid-range frequencies.
The STI, as defined in BS EN IEC 60268-16, is an effective measure of assessing speech intelligibility. A ceiling value of ‘1’ would indicate ‘excellent’ speech intelligibility, while a value of ‘0’ would be considered ‘bad’.
We created a 3D acoustic model of the three-storey foyer/atrium space in the Engineering Centre from architectural drawings including the acoustic absorption of the internal surfaces, such as suspended ceiling tiles and plasterboard finishes. We also carried out acoustic testing to assess the validity of the model across eight different locations in the foyer/atrium.
The results: validating reverberation time and STI
From this study, we were able to validate the advanced acoustic modelling techniques based on an extensive set of gathered measured data. The measured and predicted STIs especially were in very good agreement. The results demonstrate the value of predicting the acoustic performance of interior spaces where acoustics and communication are important.
The outcome: confidence in acoustic design and project delivery
The demonstration showed the accuracy of our acoustic modelling and the skill and experience of our experts. We can apply this to building design from the early RIBA stages to ensure communal spaces are fit for purpose, ensuring an efficient handover to the end user and avoiding the need for costly remedial mitigations.
We offer comprehensive acoustic modelling and noise testing services for commercial, residential, retail and other property types. Contact us to discuss our acoustic design services for your building project.
Our building acoustics testing and modelling experts
Christos Karatsovis: building vibration, including modelling, testing and designing low-vibration buildings
Andy Varley: architectural and environmental acoustics, sound insulation testing and noise assessments, and product development
Daniel Lurcock: environmental, architectural and industrial noise and vibration problems, specialising in rail and defence applications
Laurence Wilmshurst: audio applications, including testing microphones and speakers, developing active noise control systems
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