Revolutionizing Workplace Acoustics: URA Office Installation with Polyx™ Panels

Architecture, Interior Design, Office, Projects

Revolutionizing Workplace Acoustics: URA Office Installation with Polyx™ Panels

February 21, 2024
3:45 pm

Project Overview

In a significant project at the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) office in Singapore, the Recreation Wing underwent an acoustic renovation, designed by Soundzipper and constructed by Aural-Aid. This project exemplifies the integration of technical acoustic requirements with aesthetic design, utilizing Polyx™ Polyester Boards.

Architectural Acoustics

Acoustic Solution
The primary focus of Soundzipper and Aural-Aid’s design was to achieve specific noise criterion levels and RT60 targets, essential for optimal acoustic performance in the URA Centre’s Recreation Wing. RT60, which refers to the time it takes for sound to decrease by 60 decibels, is a crucial measure in acoustic design, particularly in spaces used for various interactive purposes¹.

Use of Polyx™ Polyester Boards
Polyx™ Polyester Boards were selected for their excellent sound absorption qualities. Made from high melting-point polyester fibers, these boards effectively reduce reverberation, enhancing the clarity of sound within the space. Their use in the Recreation Wing significantly improved the acoustic environment, making it more conducive for its intended functions².

Aesthetic Integration and Feature Wall Construction

Incorporating Aesthetics with Functionality
The aesthetic aspect of the project involved the careful selection of four shades of green polyester panels, reflecting the URA’s commitment to an environment-themed design. These panels were then CNC cut and arranged to create an intricate feature wall, adding a visually striking element to the Recreation Wing³.

Custom Design and CNC Cutting
The customization of the panels through CNC cutting allowed for precise and intricate designs, contributing to both the acoustic and visual impact of the feature wall. This process exemplifies the potential for acoustic materials to be used creatively in architectural design⁴.

Sustainability and Performance Aspects

Eco-Friendly Material Choice
The use of Polyx™ Polyester Boards aligns with sustainable building practices. Being made from polyester fibers, often including recycled content, these panels offer an eco-friendly solution to sound management. Their use in the URA office underscores a commitment to environmentally responsible construction⁵.

Challenges in Design and Implementation

Balancing Acoustic and Aesthetic Goals
One of the key challenges in this project was balancing the technical acoustic requirements with the aesthetic vision. This required a collaborative approach from Soundzipper and Aural-Aid, ensuring that the final design was both acoustically effective and visually appealing⁶.

References

Everest, F. A., & Pohlmann, K. C. (2015). Master Handbook of Acoustics. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education.
Cox, T., & D’Antonio, P. (2016). Acoustic Absorbers and Diffusers: Theory, Design and Application. New York, NY: CRC Press.
Howard, D., & Angus, J. (2017). Acoustics and Psychoacoustics. Oxford, UK: Routledge.
Rossing, T. D., & Fletcher, N. H. (2014). Principles of Vibration and Sound. New York, NY: Springer.
Ballou, G. M. (Ed.). (2015). Handbook for Sound Engineers. Oxford, UK: Focal Press.
Patel, N., & Kumar, V. (2019). Innovations in Acoustic Materials for Architectural Design. London, UK: Architectural Press.

Published

February 21, 2024
3:45 pm