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Sound & Noise
Sound can tie us to our surroundings, sooth or excite us, this is not a one-way street, silence isn’t always golden…
An absence of sound can be as unsettling as a excessive noise. We must seek to strike and appropriate balance.
Superficial consideration of noise in relation to modern house design may lead to the conclusion that external sound is simply something to be minimised and in a perfect world eradicated, a more considered approach will lead to the conclusion that this is in fact a more complex design consideration.
Good Sound / Bad Sound
The soothing sounds of rain-fall or bird song are of value so long as they are not drowned out by the constant hum of a nearby motorway or over-flying aircraft.
Sound Pollution
Within modern industrial society, the major sources of sound pollution are road traffic, aircraft and industrial noise. Where sound is elevated above acceptable levels (and what is acceptable varies by individuals) then stress, increased accident rates, and higher levels of aggressive and anti-social behaviour are the consequences.
Noise Reduction Techniques
There are two main ways to reduce sound pollution: mass of material and effective insulation. Simply put thick walls and floor will dampen sound and reduce the levels of pollution whilst modern technology brings us soundproofing and sound insulation products from which to construct walls and floors. Double and triple glazing is effective in reducing not only the egress of heat, but also the ingress of unwanted sound.
Positive Aspects
But let’s not forget the positive aspects of noise. Music provides a person with a happy euphoria. Natural sounds such as those of running water and wind in trees have been demonstrated to improve mood and enhance relationships.