Solutions for social spaces

Theaters, Social Halls, and Cultural Centers

Social spaces such as theaters, social halls, and cultural centers must ensure an appropriate level of sound to provide audiences with the expected enjoyment of spoken word and accompanying music. It is crucial to use acoustic materials with high aesthetic quality and color finishes that can harmoniously integrate into the architectural concept of the space.

It is important to emphasize that social spaces must meet the sound level values prescribed by standards for each specific purpose. This means that the specific function and acoustic requirements of each space must be taken into account. Standards are designed to ensure an optimal experience for visitors and audiences, so it is important to adhere to these values.

Specification of products suitable for application in educational spaces:

• high demands on panel design
• easy maintenance
• high acoustic efficiency
• mechanical resistance

Example of design solutions for the acoustics of a cultural center

An acoustically original cultural center with very poor acoustics, where visitors complained about loud noise. An economical solution was proposed by applying PET panels Ekosound on the ceiling and walls. Design-wise, the panels on the walls come in three variants, while the ceiling panels are designed as strips of Neo Clouds or suspended clouds 1200x2400x40mm. Partially recessing the panels on the walls will improve the acoustics even at low frequencies.

Examples of Acoustic Panel Installations in Social Spaces

Assignment: Acoustic solution for the Cultural Center KUNSTHALLE Košice - reducing echo, improving sound quality.  Description and solution: A special approach was required due to challenging installation conditions, using OBIFON Modular Resident panels in an aluminum frame. The panels are offset for optimal performance. Installation under these difficult conditions had to be carried out by specialists in high-altitude work - so-called "climbers". The panels have been improving acoustics for over 15 years.

Assignment: A large echo in the Dolná Ždáňa cultural center caused significant discomfort during cultural events.  Description and solution: After inspection and consultation with the mayor, we proposed the necessary area of acoustic panels. A minimalist design was considered, which would not overly burden the municipality's budget. Wall panels Modular Natur were applied to the rear wall of the hall. The echo was significantly reduced, and comfort during social events is now higher.

Assignment: During the renovation of the cinema in Velký Šenov, it was necessary to ensure proper acoustics for watching films. Description and solution: As a solution, we designed and produced wall panels Modular, which improved the sound experience while watching movies. The color scheme was kept simple to match the rest of the interior.

Assignment: Improving the acoustics of the cultural hall in Hanušovce, which was to be carried out during the renovation Description and solution: OBIFON Modular panels were designed. With their acoustic properties and fire class A2, they were suitable for this type of space. The acoustic panels are mounted on the walls of the hall. The color scheme is created with special Akutec fabric, and the colors are adapted to the rest of the interior.

Assignment: The cultural center in Počernice needed to solve the problem of high echo, simply put, reverberation.  Description and solution: Due to the white colors of the hall, we agreed on a white finish for the panels. To achieve a more attractive design, panels of different thicknesses - 50 and 75mm - were used, ensuring a 3D ceiling effect that also looks very elegant.

Assignment: Design of acoustic panels and the hall of the cinema in Filakovo Description and solution: A partner acoustic company proposed a solution for this cinema. They also participated in the design of the interior and prepared a visualization, which you can see in the photo. However, the combination of black and red was eventually rejected during approval. When you visit the cinema, you will see a different color scheme.

Read about acoustic adjustments in a cultural center

=> Download our brochure of social spaces for inspiration. 

Modular Wall Panels

Ceiling Clouds

Cinemas and cultural halls

Ceiling Baffles

Cinemas, Nightclubs, and Dance Clubs

In cinemas, nightclubs, and dance clubs, a very short reverberation time is required, which means that sound must be absorbed as quickly as possible after the first reflection from obstacles such as walls or ceilings. In these cases, it is important to apply absorbing materials to all possible surfaces.

Auditoriums

In the case of these spaces, the situation is somewhat different from cinemas or nightclubs. In these spaces, the main factor is spoken word and its intelligibility. Therefore, it is important to perform precise calculations and select suitable materials. It is recommended to first seek out professionals and have data measured directly in the given spaces.

The same recommendation applies to theaters, where there is a strong emphasis on achieving an exact level of reverberation so that the space is not overly dampened.

Requirements for the acoustic properties of the following spaces (reverberation) according to STN 730525 and STN 730527

1. Opera, Musical Theater | 2. Multipurpose Hall, Orchestra or Choir Rehearsal Room | 3. Auditorium, Theater, Drama Rehearsal Rooms, Classroom | 4. Cinema | 5. Gymnasium, Sports, Hall, Swimming Pool, Airport Hall (according to STN 730527)