Acoustics In Historical Buildings

Pacy & Wheatley Acoustics can take pride in having almost two decades of sound experience in ambient noise control and management, working with specialist plaster manufacturers to deliver seamless acoustic solutions.

Handsomely-sized, historical building interiors can become unfortunate victims of poor acoustics, leading to visitors' reviews of the stunning architecture being reduced to whispers for concern of their voices being amplified and echoed. The ambience of such a stunning backdrop can be severely compromised through intense reverberation.

For a recent project, the Pacy & Wheatley Acoustics Team worked with contractor Wooldridge and Simpson to successfully restore the ambience and timeless beauty of St. Peter's College dining hall in Hannington Hall. Located in the heart of Oxford city centre, the 200-year-old Hannington Hall is one of the earliest halls of the University of Oxford, and derives its name from the missionary Victorian bishop, James Hannington.

The 19th-century hall is constructed with a statuesque arched ceiling, with mouldings forming curved bays. The task of the architect was to carefully design new ceiling baffles with our assistance and scientific knowledge of sound quality improvement. High-quality Rockfon Mono acoustic with specifically matched coloured render was used for the ceiling baffles and upstands so as not to compromise the dining hall's existing 19th-century architecture, and LED lighting was strategically integrated to the perimeter to provide subtle lighting for its 130 diners. The non-combustible stone wool acoustic panels of Rockfon Mono Acoustic guarantee fire protection and sound absorption, ideal for hosting the perfect dinner or banquet in luxury and comfort.