When we cross the threshold of a room, our first impression is visual. But what stays with us is the feeling. And it is sound and sound insulation that shape it. From the moment we step into a lobby, restaurant, or living room, the acoustic character of the place begins to influence us, both through the way sound propagates and the degree to which unwanted noise remains outside our personal space. Leading industry experts are turning this often overlooked element into a conscious part of architecture to create experiences that linger in the memory.
Sound as the basis of a good interior
A good interior design begins with sound. When planned from the outset, it emphasizes the feeling of spaciousness in the lobby of a luxury hotel, creates intimacy in a sophisticated restaurant, or shapes the office space into an area for deep concentration. Every material, shape, and texture affects the way sound propagates or is absorbed in a room.
"Sound is one of the most subtle and often underestimated elements that shape our perception of space. It can evoke emotions, create comfort, or completely destroy the sense of harmony," adds Alexander Kirechev, engineer and founder of Acoustic Force.
But comfort depends not only on good acoustics, but also on high-quality sound insulation. When a home has no protection from outside noise, such as from the street or neighbors, comfort quickly disappears. Noise not only disturbs peace and quiet, but also affects sleep, concentration, and emotional state. In an office environment, the lack of sound insulation increases stress levels, and in restaurants, it turns dinner into a noisy shouting match.
How is the acoustic experience designed?
The functionality of the space is paramount. Acoustic Force works closely with designers and clients to understand how a room will be used and what the expectations are for acoustic comfort.
For example, in a single-family home with small, noisy children, the priority is sound insulation between rooms to ensure peace and quiet for the adults. In another family that is not bothered by noise, the focus is on sound quality rather than insulation.
There are also spaces where sound insulation plays a key role:
- In schools, it helps children concentrate on the teacher without being distracted by noise from neighboring classrooms.
- In music and podcast studios – provides control over sound at the recording stage, without the need for heavy post-processing.
- In restaurants – prevents the Lombard effect, where everyone raises their voice because they cannot hear each other.
It is also important to distinguish between acoustics and sound insulation – two terms that are often confused.
– Acoustics refers to the way sound propagates and sounds inside a room.
– Soundproofing aims to limit the transmission of sound between different spaces.
When both are well planned, the result is a harmonious sound experience.
Technologies and materials – a balance between science and art
In complex cases, such as limiting the noise impact of a supermarket on residential floors or renovating a concert hall, Acoustic Force uses scientifically based methods and 3D simulations to predict how sound will propagate in space.
"This allows us to offer solutions that are effective, aesthetic, and economically viable," explains Mr. Kirechev.
When selecting materials, Acoustic Force relies on sustainable and environmentally friendly products – acoustic plasters, panels made from recycled raw materials, perforated structures, and other modern solutions that control echo and improve sound insulation to ensure crystal-clear sound and sound protection.
Often underestimated mistakes
Errors in acoustic design are often due to the incorrect installation of materials advertised as "acoustic." A classic example is the use of acoustic cardboard or perforated plasterboard installed directly onto a solid base without an air gap or soundproofing wool. This significantly reduces their effectiveness.
In rooms with lower requirements, these shortcomings sometimes go unnoticed. But in sensitive spaces such as concert halls, restaurants, studios, or video conference rooms, poor sound insulation leads to serious problems, additional costs, and disappointed customers.
"For establishments located in hotels or residential buildings, such mistakes often lead to complaints, legal disputes, and even business failure," Alexander emphasizes.
Acoustics and sound insulation should not be underestimated. They are a long-term investment that enriches the experience, saves costs, and prevents future adjustments. Good acoustics are not noticeable, but they are always felt. And good sound insulation can be heard in the silence.
