Background
Anderson Acoustics were appointed by Peldon Rose to provide acoustics advice for the fit‑out of a new gym at XTX Markets London. The scope focused on controlling airborne sound, impact noise and mechanical services noise within a mixed‑use internal layout that includes both high‑activity and noise‑sensitive spaces.
The Challenge
The layout combines gym and studio spaces with changing rooms, lounge and dining areas, alongside massage rooms requiring lower internal noise levels. Amplified music, dropped free weights at mezzanine level and mechanical ventilation all presented clear risks of noise transfer between spaces with contrasting acoustic requirements.
Without appropriate soundproofing and vibration control, these activities had the potential to compromise comfort in adjoining spaces.
Our Approach
We reviewed the proposed layouts, separating constructions and mechanical services strategy to assess airborne, impact and services noise transmission. Acoustic calculations were undertaken to predict internal noise levels, and acoustic performance requirements were defined through detailed specifications and marked‑up drawings.
Advice was structured to support coordination with the wider design team and to ensure that acoustic measures could be practically implemented during fit‑out.
The Solution
Separating wall, floor, door and glazed screen constructions were specified to control airborne sound transmission between gym areas, changing rooms, lounge spaces and massage rooms. Minimum laboratory sound insulation ratings of 40-55 dB Rw were set, with higher‑performance constructions applied where both spaces were identified as high‑noise activity areas.
Mechanical ventilation proposals were assessed using detailed acoustic calculations. Predicted noise levels were shown to remain within NR design limits across all occupied spaces through appropriate system design and the inclusion of in‑line acoustic attenuators.
Impact‑induced noise from dropped weights at mezzanine level was addressed through the installation of resilient Pavigym flooring systems, reducing structure‑borne noise transmission to spaces below.
The Outcome
Predicted mechanical services noise levels were demonstrated to meet upper design limits, with gym and circulation spaces assessed at NR 40-45 and massage rooms assessed at NR 35. The coordinated approach to airborne sound insulation, impact noise control and services noise management provides effective acoustic separation across the facility.
The final design supports intensive gym use while maintaining appropriate workplace acoustics in adjoining and noise‑sensitive areas.
Conclusion
This project illustrates our role as a specialist consultancy providing clear, dependable acoustic advice for commercial fitness environments. By defining acoustic performance requirements early and supporting their integration into the fit‑out design, the scheme achieves controlled internal noise conditions aligned with the intended use of each space.
