Architectural Acoustics

Architectural Acoustics is a discipline of Physics applied in Architecture, therefore most problems require a multidisciplinary approach. It deals with the sound in buildings, (e.g. The acoustic design of auditoria, theatres, sound studios etc. and addresses problems of Sound insulation, Absorption, Diffusion, Noise Control and Vibration isolation. The profession of acoustics is rare in Cyprus, in spite of the fact that our buildings are more likely to need acoustic treatment, than in most other countries.

The main reasons for this are:

a) The typical construction materials used in our country of cement, plastered walls, glass, wood laminate, ceramic, and granite are all acoustically hard, which means that our buildings suffer from excessive reverberation; the lack of soft furnishings (e.g. curtains, carpets, etc.) aggravates the problem.

b) In addition, the popular modern aesthetic of minimalism which dictates large, flat, bare, hard surfaces, minimum furniture and ornaments further accentuates the problem

c) Modern building materials and methods make possible the construction of large spaces which are extremely reverberant (e.g. churches, sports centers, closed swimming pools, entertainment venues, youth centers, lecture theaters, etc.). The result is very muddled speech and noisy environment.

d) ‘Open’ type offices, classrooms, apartments…offer certain advantages but hey tend to be problematic.

ACOUSTIC TREATMENT OF BUILDINGS SOLVES HUGE PROBLEMS AND MAKES THEM MORE FUNCTIONAL

Iasonas Christoforou

Director PHI ACOUSTICS BSc Physics, MSc Acoustics, MIOA, MAES, ΕΛΙΝΑ www.phiacoustics.com info@phiacoustics.com M.: 99416605