Background
Claritas Group, on behalf of Medway Council, commissioned Anderson Acoustics to provide acoustic design services for a new residential development at Whiffens Avenue, Chatham.
The project involved transforming the Whiffens Avenue Car Park into a 7-storey building with 115 apartments, landscaping, and associated parking.
What we did
The primary goal was to ensure the development met the relevant acoustic performance criteria and Employers Requirements, which went beyond Approved Document E compliance. This involved assessing external noise levels, designing sound insulation for façades and separating constructions between adjacent apartments, and controlling noise from building services and plant equipment.
Key Acoustic Design Elements
Façade Acoustic Design
- A desktop assessment was conducted using a 3D acoustic model. The model predicted noise levels from nearby roads, helping to determine the necessary sound insulation for the building’s façade.
- The design focused on glazing and ventilation openings, the weakest elements acoustically. Glazing requirements were specified to ensure internal noise levels remain within acceptable limits.
Plant Noise Impact
- Noise limits were set for mechanical plant to ensure minimal impact on nearby noise-sensitive receptors.
- Specific noise criteria were established for various plant locations, including electrical switch rooms and a generator room.
Sound Insulation
- Comprehensive guidelines were provided for the construction of internal partitions, floors, and ceilings to ensure adequate sound insulation.
- Specific constructions were recommended for separating walls, floors, and doors to meet the enhanced acoustic criteria.
Reverberation Control
- Measures were proposed to control reverberation in common areas, such as corridors and stairwells, using sound-absorbing materials.
- Calculations were provided to determine the necessary amount of absorptive material for different types of spaces.
Building Services Noise
- Criteria for acceptable noise levels from building services were established, with specific recommendations for mechanical ventilation and lift noise.
- An assessment of the proposed mechanical ventilation system was conducted, with recommendations for additional attenuation where necessary.
Conclusion
The acoustic design for Garrison Point ensures a high standard of living by effectively managing noise levels. Through detailed assessments and strategic design solutions, Anderson Acoustics provided a comprehensive approach to meet the project’s acoustic requirements, contributing to a comfortable residential environment.
This case study highlights the importance of acoustic design in residential developments.
Project Progress
Construction was completed in 2023.
