Study by Turku University of Applied Sciences Study overview A new study published in Building and Environment and recently presented at Forum Acousticum Euronoise 2025 in Malaga found that teaching staff were dissatisfied with open and flexible learning spaces, even though the sound levels during activities were slightly lower in open than in traditional enclosed […]
noise
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 […]
Assessing the indoor soundscape approach among university students’ home study places
After being inspired by Amneh’s research about students experience of their study soundscapes we caught up for an interview with her and found out more about Amneh and what her broader interests are around her research. Amneh has just recently completed her PhD with TU Delft. Do all university students prefer quiet and private study […]
How Sound Shapes Our Schools: Teachers’ Perceptions of School Soundscapes
Guest post by Hatice Kurukose Cal, Phd candidate, Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering, UCL, UK Teachers play a key role in shaping the soundscape of a school, but how do they perceive the acoustics around them, and how does it impact their work? Our research delves into UK teachers’ perceptions of school soundscapes, exploring how […]
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 […]
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 […]
Coffee chain premises noise data gathered by Soundprint
This interesting noise survey can help inform those looking for coffee chain premises which are most conducive for a good conversation. Crowdsourced data has been gathered by the pioneering Soundprint in the USA via their Soundprint App measuring the sound levels when customers visit with the App activated. Rolling data can inform consumer sound preferences […]
Dissatisfaction with noise strongly related to the perceived fit of office
Many research studies investigate satisfaction with indoor environmental quality in offices. In their study, Jenni Raduni and Valtteri Hongisto from Turku University examined the influence of office types and satisfaction with indoor environmental quality factors on different activities’ perceived fit. The study was based on a large global dataset consisting of more than 82,000 respondents […]
Classrooms beyond the minimum acoustic standard found to significantly reduce school noise and disturbance
According to the study, additional sound absorbing materials – e.g. acoustic panels, carpets and soft furniture – play a significant role in creating calm and pleasant learning environments. In a study published in 2023 by Turku University of Applied Sciences. It was found that the noise generated in the school environment from the activities of the […]
