Controlling noise and managing acoustics within a confined space is an important challenge for architects and interior designers. When designing an interior space, many architects find it challenging, especially if the client makes a request for particular acoustic specifications.
However, one of the best ways to control sound in a closed space is through the use of 3D acoustical panels. 3D acoustical panels help absorb and diffuse soundwaves throughout the closed space, reducing echoes and making it much easier for sound to travel through freely.
In this article, we are going to talk about five major design applications for 3D acoustical panels. But first, it’s important to understand what 3D acoustical panels really are.
What Are 3D Acoustical Panels?
3D acoustical panels, also known as acoustic baffles, are simply sound-absorbing panels that are designed to reduce reverberations within a closed space. In most cases, they include both vertical and horizontal panels, and are generally designed to absorb, diffuse, and attenuate the sound.
When installed vertically (on a ceiling) or horizontally, acoustical panels don’t just absorb the sound, they also diffuse it throughout the room, thus preventing a reverb and making it much easier for everyone within the space to hear clearly.
3D acoustical panels must be installed with great care after evaluating the size of the room, the purpose, and the location of the panels themselves. Several factors must be taken into consideration, including:
- The furniture in the room
- The type of activity to be conducted
- The size of the room
- Any materials used within the room
When installed correctly, acoustical panels reduce flutter echo and mitigate excessive reverberations. Now, here are five common design applications for 3D acoustical panels.
1. Music Venues
Acoustical panels are perhaps most commonly used in music venues. With a large stage facing towards the audience, it’s important for the venue to ensure that every member seated out front is able to hear the music loud and clear.
In some cases, that’s not always possible, especially given the design of the building. Many older buildings, such as musical halls and opera houses were retrofitted with 3D acoustical panels to improve their sound performance and reduce reverberations.
In such large spaces, acoustical panels are installed on the walls and on the ceiling too. They play a critical role in getting rid of any residual sound, diffusing and absorbing it from where it first reflects.
They can also be custom designed to improve the aesthetics of the closed space. For instance, curvilinear diffuser-reflectors can be used in auditoriums or performing arts centers to reflect the sound better, as they are available in many aesthetically appealing designs, including different shapes and curvatures.
2. Bars
Live music is a common fixture in many bars and pubs throughout the country. Making sure that the sound travels freely through the space is obviously important. 3D acoustical panels, including ceiling baffles and clouds can be used to improve the interior design of a bar or a pub.
Convex diffuser absorbers in bars protrude from the walls and add a unique touch to the space. They are available with a custom gel coat color, or you can even choose to get panels that are wrapped with a decorative fabric to make the space look brighter.
3. Classrooms and Conference Areas
Reflective wall and ceiling panels can also be installed in classrooms to improve the acoustics of the space. Teachers often complain that students in the back are unable to hear them, and that’s primarily because of the excessive echo within the space.
However, reflective wall and ceiling panels are ideal for classrooms and conference areas. They have a thin reflective membrane and the core is made from a 6-7 PCF Fiberglass, which helps improve sound absorption.
More importantly, these panels can be wrapped with a decorative fabric to further improve their aesthetic appeal. The edge profile can be altered too, with available options including bevel, radius, miter, or square, and others available if needed.
4. Churches or Prayer Areas
The use of 3D acoustical panels in churches and worship areas is becoming increasingly common. For instance, quadratic residue diffusers can be mounted within the space to improve broadband diffusion and scatter the acoustic energy throughout the large space.
This makes it easy for attendants to hear others clearly. A common example of stylish acoustical panels being used in churches or worship areas are the quadratic residue diffusers, which are made from high-end materials and reduce excessive resonance.
The material facing can be made from wood veneer or laminates, while custom finish facings are also available. They are incredibly easy to install, with clear mounts available, allowing users to just mount them on a wall conveniently.
Architects and designers can also opt for designer color palettes to coordinate with the interior aesthetic of the space and improve its design.
5. Recording Studios
Perhaps one of the most significant design applications for 3D acoustical panels is in recording studios. They are installed on the ceiling as well as the walls to reduce blurred background noise, flutter echo, and to offer greater sound clarity when recording music.
Because the inside of a recording studio is so meticulously designed, sound reverberations are carefully measured. There are a variety of design choices available for companies, including the use of ceiling clouds, contoured acoustic panels, and even hardwood diffusers and absorbers.
Use AVL Systems For the Best In-Class Acoustic Panels
If you want to choose high-end 3D acoustical panels that don’t just look, but also do a stellar job of absorbing and diffusing the sound, you should get in touch with AVL Online.
The company offers acoustic panels in various 3D forms and shapes, with on-demand designs also available. They don’t just look good, but they also offer excellent sound dampening and diffusion.
Their Acoustishell, Prime7 and Acoustech line of 3D panels is great for use in commercial spaces like musical venues, restaurants, or auditoriums. They are also ideal for use in classrooms where sound control is necessary, making them an excellent choice for architects and interior designers that require the best in-class acoustic control.