Background
The Brighton Youth Centre (BYC), located at 64 Edward Street in Kemptown has undergone a major redevelopment to enhance its facilities for the local youth. Surrounded by residential and commercial properties, the redevelopment aimed to modernize the centre while considering noise impact on the surrounding community. The project included the construction of new rehearsal rooms, a gym, a dance studio, an event space, and remodelling the upper floor skate park.
Anderson Acoustics was commissioned by Alter Architects to advise on the acoustic design ensuring effective noise and vibration control.
What We Did
Environmental Noise Survey
Measurements were taken at two key locations to assess the existing acoustic environment. The results informed the acoustic design of the building envelope and the plant noise, and activity noise breakout impact assessments.
Acoustic Strategy
The Stage 4 Acoustic Strategy focused on achieving BREEAM Hea05 and Pol05 credits. Key elements included:
- Enhanced sound insulation and reverberation control in sensitive spaces like the dance studio, music practice and rehearsal rooms
- A high-performance acoustic floor for the skate park to control impact noise, followed by a value engineered solution to meet the budget considering the detailed operation and management of the spaces below the skate park
- Mechanical ventilation and hybrid systems to manage indoor ambient noise levels
- A comprehensive noise management plan to control noise breakout from events and outdoor areas
Activity Noise Impact Assessment
A high-level assessment was conducted to evaluate potential noise breakout from the new facilities:
- The skate park and event space were identified as high-risk areas. Upgrades to the building envelope and operational restrictions (e.g., door usage, hours of operation) were recommended
- The courtyard garden, relocated to the northwest boundary, was assessed for its impact on nearby residences. With supervision and restricted hours, together with screening opportunities, the noise impact was deemed low
- Rehearsal rooms and the dance studio were found to pose minimal risk, following design considerations such as design location, construction, management and operation, and ventilation strategies
Conclusion
We successfully integrated acoustic design principles to minimize noise impact on the surrounding community within the project scope and budget. Through detailed surveys, strategic design interventions, and a robust noise management plan, we hope the project will achieve its goals of enhancing youth facilities while maintaining a respectful acoustic environment for nearby residents.
Project Progress
Works are now complete, and the space is ready for use by young people in the community.
