Year Installed:
2023
Location:
Winnipeg, MB
The 300 Main building in Winnipeg is a prestigious residential development that offers luxurious amenities, including the FORTY common space and game room. These areas were designed to provide residents with a comfortable environment for socializing and relaxation. However, the modern architectural elements—such as large glass surfaces and steel structures—presented significant challenges in terms of sound management.
The FORTY common space and game room featured a wide-open layout with an abundance of hard surfaces, including expansive glass windows and steel structures. While these materials contributed to the sleek, modern aesthetic of the space, they also created an environment where sound could easily bounce around, leading to issues with noise and reverberation. These acoustic challenges threatened to undermine the comfort and functionality of the space.
Additionally, the space contained two-by-six vertical steel beams that stretched from floor to ceiling. These beams, though essential for the building’s structural integrity, did not align with the architects’ vision for a cohesive and visually appealing environment. Although they had been previously painted to blend in with the surroundings, the design team sought a more integrated solution that would address both the acoustic and aesthetic issues.
Hush Acoustics was brought in to provide a comprehensive acoustic solution that would enhance the comfort and usability of the FORTY common space and game room while maintaining the elegance of the design. The approach focused on both the ceiling and the vertical steel columns, ensuring that the acoustic treatments were not only effective but also harmonious with the overall aesthetic.
1. Flush-Mounted Ceiling Fins
To combat the noise and reverberation issues caused by the hard surfaces and glass, Hush Acoustics installed flush-mounted ceiling fins. These fins were spaced evenly throughout the corridor and across the open areas of the floor. The fins were designed to absorb sound and reduce echo, creating a more comfortable acoustic environment. The flush-mounted design allowed the fins to integrate seamlessly with the ceiling, ensuring that they contributed to the space’s modern aesthetic without detracting from its visual appeal.
2. Custom Vertical Beams:
To address the visual and acoustic challenges posed by the vertical steel columns, Hush Acoustics designed custom vertical beams. These beams were meticulously crafted to match the exact measurements of the columns, fully encasing them in acoustic material. This solution not only improved the sound absorption within the space but also transformed the structural elements into cohesive design features. The custom beams blended perfectly with the overall design of the FORTY room, adding a layer of sophistication while enhancing the room’s acoustic performance.
The acoustic interventions provided by Hush Acoustics significantly improved the sound quality within the FORTY common space and game room. The flush-mounted ceiling fins effectively mitigated the reverberation issues, making the space more conducive to social interactions and relaxation. The custom vertical beams seamlessly integrated the structural columns into the room’s design, addressing both the aesthetic and acoustic challenges.
The client was extremely pleased with the results, noting how well the acoustic solutions complemented the elegant design of the space. The interventions not only met the functional requirements of the project but also enhanced the visual appeal of the FORTY room, making it a standout feature within the 300 Main building.
Fins
Beams
CUSTOM PRODUCT
Office: Raymond S C Wan Architect Inc
Installation Team: Marwest Construction Ltd
Photography: Lindsay Reid Photo
©2024 Hush Acoustics
