Along with light, sound is essential to the successful ‘experience’ of a public space, influencing human health, behaviour, communication and productivity. The acoustic ambience is a major factor in generating a positive perception of the natural and built environment, adding to people’s enjoyment of their surroundings and helping to create a unique ‘sense of place’. Acoustics is also central to the functionality of a building or space, determining its effectiveness as a workplace or a public/social environment.

With the growing trend towards brownfield regeneration projects in town and city centres adding to the density of the urban fabric, environmental noise is becoming an increasingly important issue. The role of the acoustics engineer is to counteract the potentially negative impact of increased urbanisation by identifying noise pollution and vibration problems on the project site (and the surrounding area) and then helping the design team to develop appropriate solutions.

Buro Happold’s acoustic consultancy covers all aspects of building acoustics and environmental noise mitigation. Working as part of our specialist consulting team, we have been involved in numerous site infrastructure, building development and urban planning projects around the world. We use innovative modelling technology and rigorous analysis to study and accurately assess the acoustic interactions in and between spaces.

The ‘noise climate’ on a site can influence all aspects of a development, from the infrastructure to the orientation and façade of buildings. By carrying out on-site surveying and sound mapping at an early stage in the design process we are able to advise on how to position the building to make the best use of shielding from noise sources. Analysis of ambient noise also informs the design of internal and external spaces by predicting noise break-in from nearby roads and general urban activity.

Noise control is now a key regulatory requirement on most new developments – there is a requirement to satisfy planning requirements as well as local stipulations that the proposed development does not intensify noise pollution to an unacceptable degree. With ‘quality of life’ issues uppermost, we work closely with developers and local authorities to establish acceptable design parameters which achieve compliance and meet the objectives of architects and clients.