At Forum Acusticum / Euronoise 2025 in Málaga, Rainer Machner presented a study that blends technical rigour with practical application. Together with Holger Brokmann and Dr. Achim Klein from Saint-Gobain Ecophon, he explored how the simplified ISO 3382-3 prediction model can support faster and more user-focused acoustic design in open-plan offices. Traditionally, ISO 3382-3 is […]
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Evaluation and optimization of acoustic comfort in restaurant environments: the case of Oasis Sapori Antichi
Acoustic comfort is a crucial factor in the environmental quality of restaurant spaces. This study presents the case of the Michelin-starred restaurant Oasis Sapori Antichi in Vallesaccarda (AV), which underwent a targeted acoustic optimization intervention. Preliminary acoustic measurements revealed non-compliant values for reverberation time (RT), clarity index (C50), and speech transmission index (STI). Following the […]
The influence of indoor temperature and noise on autistic individuals
Study overview This study explores how indoor temperature and noise affect people with autism, aiming to create more inclusive and comfortable environments. While most indoor comfort research focuses on the general population, this study highlights that autistic individuals often experience their surroundings differently due to sensory sensitivities. These differences can make standard comfort assessments, like […]
Predicting the distraction due to speech and babble
Task-irrelevant speech is among the most common and disruptive sources of noise in modern office environments. For acousticians, the challenge has long been: how do we objectively assess the distraction caused by such fluctuating, speech-dominated environments using tools readily available in the field? A new study by Hongisto et al. (2025) offers a solution. It […]
Restaurants get louder—here’s how good acoustics and table spacing can break the cycle
In hospitality spaces such as restaurants, hotel lobbies, and cafés, escalating noise is more than just a nuisance—it’s a scientifically recognized phenomenon with measurable impacts on both guest experience and business outcomes. This is largely driven by the Lombard effect, a reflexive human response where people raise their voices in noisy environments to be heard. […]
How noise affects decision-making
Noise has always been seen as a challenge in workplaces, but its impact on decision-making—especially in experience-based judgments—is not yet fully understood. This article looks at two research studies that explore how noise affects decision-making and the practical implications of their findings. Why room acoustics matter in decision making Efficient decision-making is essential in workplace […]
Acoustics, Music and Architecture podcast
How sound and buildings interact! A new BBC Sounds “Start the Week” podcast with sound guru Prof. Trevor Cox, Fiona Smyth author and musician Jess Gillam combine to give a great overview of the history and development of architectural acoustics… Some fascinating acoustic discussions and insights: Echo vs reverberation, distinct echo vs reverberant bloom… Listen […]
New Aural Diversity toolkit helping designers create more inclusive spaces
Aural Diversity Toolkit Arup and the Aural Diversity Network have developed a toolkit to help designers create spaces and environments that meet the needs of everyone. This toolkit addresses the broader needs of those with aural sensitivities and provides a comprehensive set of recommendations, further research and other relevant aspects to consider to better inform […]
Active noise-cancelling headphones do not improve cognitive performance in office noise environment
In modern open-plan offices, noise from conversations and background activities can significantly impact employees’ productivity and well-being. Active noise-cancelling (ANC) headphones are often employed as a personal solution to reduce distractions and control the acoustic environment. But how effective are these devices in enhancing performance, reducing stress, or improving the overall work experience? This article […]
From Theory to Reality : Assessing Predictive Models for comparison of Reverberation Time results
Guest post by Marco Caniato University of Applied Science HFT of Stuttgart, based on his recent presentation at Forum Acousticum / Euronoise 2025 conference in Málaga. Background Reverberation time (RT) is a fundamental parameter in room acoustics, directly affecting speech intelligibility, comfort, and the overall acoustic quality of a space. Yet, despite decades of research […]
