Background
Anderson Acoustics was commissioned by Strong Pilates Ltd to provide acoustic design advice in relation to a new Pilates studio fit-out to be located within a vacant ground floor commercial unit in Leicester.
The Challenge
Strong Pilates studios typically comprise a series of Rowformer Pilates machines at each of the multiple fitness stations as well as a professionally installed sound amplification system which is used for all classes to reproduce music and used by the instructors to amplify speech during classes.
For this particular site, there were existing residential properties located directly above and adjacent to the existing unit, therefore it was important to mitigate the potential noise impacts due the operation of the studio.
What we did
We carried out a noise transfer assessment to determine the potential noise impact on the adjacent uses. This included attending site to carry out a series of controlled sound insulation tests in accordance with relevant British Standards to determine the airborne noise transfer performance provided by the existing wall and floor structures, which separate the proposed studio and the various adjacencies.
The results of the sound transfer tests allowed us to undertake a series of desktop noise transfer assessments which were based off previously operational noise levels we measured at other Strong Pilates studios.
The predicted level of noise transfer was compared to criteria we have previously adopted for comparable projects which also ensures that the inherent low-frequency content of amplified music is adequately controlled so to not cause disturbance.
This then allowed us to put forward a suitable noise control strategy which included the specification of wall linings and separating floor construction for these areas. The studio was also zoned appropriately to ensure the noise levels within the studio were sufficiently contained and that the noise control strategy for the quieter areas, e.g. changing rooms, reception and back of house, were not over-designed.
Our noise control strategy included recommendations for a suspended acoustic ceiling to improve the airborne sound insulation performance, the installation of independent wall linings and the recommendation of introducing anti-vibration loudspeaker mounts within the studio.
We continue to collaborate with Strong Pilates on the various sites they are opening across the UK.
Testimonial
“We engaged Anderson acoustics for a number of projects now and we couldn’t recommend them highly enough. This Leicester project was a challenging one and Anderson acoustics worked diligently with both us a a head office and our franchisee in a professional and timely manner that got a brilliant outcome and allowed us to get another quality Strong Pilates studio up and operational. Being in the fitness industry requires a lot of sound engineering and forethought as each case is very different. We are extremely happy with the continued support from Anderson acoustics and recommend them to our Franchise partners that require sound proofing advice and implementation.” John Hastings, MD, Strong Pilates
