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. […]
Various
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 […]
Irrelevant speech makes perceived workload higher
Irrelevant speech, or background conversations, has been shown to impair cognitive performance and cause physiological stress. Recently published research demonstrated that working during task-irrelevant speech not only increases stress, as measured by heart rate variability, and reduces accuracy but also increases annoyance and perceived workload. Method Thirty participants performed two cognitive tasks (n-back and serial […]
Three strategies towards greater sustainability – presentation at DAGA conference
The 50th Annual Congress of the German Acoustical Society (DAGA) was held in Hannover this year. Celebrating decades of innovation and scientific advancement, DAGA 2024 featured presentations dedicated to sustainable practices in acoustic research and technology. This article provides a summary of the presentation by Achim Klein from Ecophon Saint-Gobain on the efficiency, consistency, and […]
After a full 50 years, Slovakia has a new acoustic standard!
Slovakia has a new STN 73 0527 acoustic standard that can finally improve conditions in schools! The new updated STN 73 0527 acoustic standard deals with room acoustics. In schools, universities, and spaces used for cultural, sports, social and public purposes. It aims at ensuring better quality and healthier acoustic conditions. New acoustic standard highlights […]
Improving acoustic comfort in swimming pools
Insights from Jeroen Vugts and Pien Schravesande at EAS 2024 Swimming pools, with their lively and dynamic environments, present unique acoustic challenges that are often overlooked. At the recent Ecophon Acoustic Seminar (EAS) in the Netherlands, ir. Jeroen Vugts and Pien Schravesande of LBP Sight presented an insightful discussion on the critical role of acoustics […]
BNAM 2024: A step forward in acoustic innovation
Baltic-Nordic Acoustic Meeting (BNAM) 2024 is leading the way in acoustic innovation in the Nordic countries. This year, BNAM has been exploring new ways to distinguish itself among major acoustic conferences like Internoise and Forum Acusticum. One of the key strategies has been to offer not just ordinary presentations but also hands-on workshops with software […]
