Acoustic guide

The three primary methods of reducing reverberation times are acoustic absorption, diffusion and attenuation. Many of our products feature combinations of these methods, such as absorption together with diffusion, or absorption twinned with attenuation. Some of them offer all three.

Absorption

In this case, sound waves are absorbed by the surface, rather than bouncing off it, and are converted into heat energy. Generally speaking, porous or soft surface materials such as textiles contribute to sound absorption. Hard surfaces like glass or concrete reflect sound and thus create echoes. By using our absorption solutions, such as cloth-upholstered screens or wall panels that feature a sound-absorbent core, it is easy to balance the presence of hard materials, shorten reverberation times, and thereby create a more harmonious soundscape.
Sound absorption products, example: Lily  Scala Wall  Domo Wall  Alumi Table

Diffusion

In addition to the combination of materials that go into a piece of furniture, the structure or texture of its surfaces, and its shape affect ambient sound, as well. A hard surface that is also entirely flat will reflect sound directly, but one that is pleated or waved will weaken sound waves by dispersing them in various reflective directions. The effect is called diffusion. Using this method, sound waves are diffused rather than broken down. By combining the method of diffusion with that of absorption, it is possible to create a harmonious soundscape.
Sound diffusion products, example: Airflake  Triline Wall  Aircone  Scala Wall

Attenuation

This method, also known as dampening, involves dividing a soundscape into discrete acoustic zones using different types of barriers that prevent sound from travelling unobstructed between, for example, two workstations. The most radical way of working with acoustic attenuation in an office space is to install silent rooms – such as Plenty Pod, which completely prevents sound from entering or exiting. Another way is to use screens. Contrary to what you might think, good acoustic screens are rather effective. In fact, they can lower noise levels by up to 15 dB. Normally, office noise levels are around 65 dB, so a reduction of 15 dB is very considerable. By comparison, a conventional wall attenuates noise by about 35 dB.
Sound attenuation products, example: Plenty Pod  Softline Floor  Chubby Floor  Soneo Floor  Stitch Floor  Domo Wall Booth