Manchester’s new arts venue, Aviva Studios, features two huge events spaces that can host anything from poetry readings to mega-raves. BDP had the challenge of devising a flexible lighting and services strategy that could adapt to any artistic situation, as the consultant’s Steve Merridew and Nick Meddows explain
Tag: Acoustics
Loud and clear on noise control
Excessive noise from mechanical ventilation systems can have a detrimental effect on the comfort of building occupants, but Apex Acoustics’ Jack Harvie-Clark believes the proposed Approved Document F fails to address the issue
How audio visualisation can drive the natural ventilation of buildings
Acoustics and ventilation should be designed in tandem to ensure optimal performance in naturally ventilated buildings, says Mach’s Ze Nunes, who shares research on software that visualises noise to give designers a sound basis for their decision-making
Silent treatment: acoustic design in an open plan school
The design brief for Trumpington Community College was for open teaching spaces overlooking a large, airy atrium. The challenge for Max Fordham’s acoustic engineers was ensuring teachers were not disturbed by noise from neighbouring spaces. Andy Pearson reports
Sound advice – taking external noise into account when ventilating buildings
Ventilation strategies relying on residents opening windows falter if there is too much external noise. Anthony Chilton reports on a new guide designed to balance the needs of acoustics, ventilation
and overheating
Hearing is believing – acoustic modelling technology
Virtual-reality technology is allowing designers to model sound in an immersive 3D environment. Liza Young discovers the evolution of acoustic simulation
Peace of mind – CIBSE Guide B4
CIBSE has published a new version of its guidance covering noise and vibration in building services. The Guide B4 steering committee and its chair, Bob Peters, summarise the contents, focusing on chillers and noise from waterflow systems
Sound of success – acoustic design in music schools
Creating the right acoustic environment in a performance space is a painstaking task that requires a multidisciplinary approach. Liza Young speaks to the team behind a new University of St Andrews music centre