Architectural Acoustic Consulting

Acoustic Simulation, Modeling, Auralization

WSDG uses complex prediction and analysis software to model and study the behavior of sound in a three-dimensional virtual prototyping environment by means of an iterative process and has also pioneered the use of acoustical modeling tools and auralization by using the industry’s most advanced acoustic prediction and modeling software. These software tools facilitate “auralization” – a complex calculated algorithm that allows for input of an original, non-processed audio file (such as a speech announcement or an acoustical instrument recording) and then renders an audible reproduction of the future acoustical situation in the virtual building environment. This allows all stakeholders to listen to music, speech or any audio content in the virtual design reality, thus providing an invaluable tool during design and planning.

Room Acoustics Analysis and Surface Treatments Design

Room Acoustics is the science of controlling a room’s internal acoustic characteristics by creating geometry in combination with creative surface materialization using reflection, absorption and/or diffusion. Excessive reverberation time can lead to poor speech intelligibility, high ambient noise levels, poor ability to concentrate and limited comfort, specifically in workplace and privacy / confidentiality applications. Interior acoustical floor, wall, and ceiling surfaces can be created using a wide variety of materials and finishes, including perforated, slotted, fabric covered, foam based, plastic, wood, glass, metal or gypsum materialization. WSDG carefully studies and specifies appropriate materials and applications, always with a keen eye and respect for a project’s underlying architecture.

Sound Isolation / Structural Acoustics Analysis and Design

Structural Acoustics analyzes noise transmission from building exterior envelope to interior and vice versa, as well as noise transmission from one room to another within the building environment. Inadequate acoustical isolation may lead to elevated sound levels within the space which reduces privacy, comfort level and concentration ability, severely limits speech intelligibility and has implications for noise health effects. Primary noise paths often include roofs, ceilings, eaves, walls, windows, doors, room partitions, as well as flanking, ducting and other penetrations. Sufficient noise containment control ensures space functionality and is often required by local municipal codes. WSDG specifications include construction details for wall and slab assemblies and special acoustical isolation conditions (including “room-within-room” construction).

Broadcast and Recording Studio Design

WSDG brings nearly 50 years of experience in providing design and consulting services that support Broadcast and Recording Studio projects during all phases (master planning, schematic design, design development, construction documentation, bidding – pricing, construction administration and final commissioning / close out). WSDG provides timely, detailed and cost-effective advice on highly sensitive and complex architectural construction and renovation projects, from small but critical retrofits to challenging ground-up construction. WSDG brings extensive experience to sensitive architectural issues including historical renovations, additions and new construction projects in media production, corporate, government, education, broadcasting and cultural / entertainment sectors.

Media Facility Site / Facility / Master Planning / Feasibility Studies

WSDG provides a wide portfolio of design and consulting services that support media facility conceptual planning, master planning, site selection and feasibility studies as well as timely, detailed and cost-effective advice on highly sensitive and complex architectural construction and renovation projects. WSDG has extensive experience with sensitive architectural issues including historical renovations, additions and new construction projects in media production, corporate, government, education, broadcasting and cultural / entertainment sectors.

Technical Interior Design and Product Development / Prototype Testing

WSDG provides technical interior design and integration services for media production, cultural, entertainment and corporate environments in close collaboration with all stakeholders with the goal of enhancing room design, achieving a healthier, more inspiring, more ergonomical and more aesthetically pleasing environment. WSDG provides conceptual development, space planning, site inspection, programming, research and construction management for technical AV and lighting design, lighting control, acoustical surfaces and sightline considerations. Designs are illustrated by means of 3D visualizations, renderings and VR simulations. WSDG’s engineering team and laboratories are available for acoustical studies, assessments, and measurements as well as for supporting further optimization of acoustical parameters of a given product under development. Feasibility studies and virtual prototyping can be conducted to ascertain the product’s acoustical performance level and market position.

Acoustic Testing, Measurement and Assessment

WSDG employs sophisticated measurement equipment, WSDG Services Acoustic Testing, measurements and assessment. the most up-to-date acoustical data-collection and analysis software and complex visualization tools to determine and optimize existing acoustical conditions in time and frequency domains, including RT60 Reverberation Times, Transmission Loss, STI Speech Intelligibility Assessments, SPL Sound Pressure Level distribution, Background Noise Levels and many other parameters. Our engineering team specializes in acquiring critical measurement data in-situ or laboratory-based for documentation. This work applies to both technical design and legal / forensic purposes and presents useful interpretations of measurement results and their consequences. All work complies with the latest international standards, industry benchmarks and professional compliance values.

Peer Review, Expert Reports, Studies and Surveys

WSDG is a trusted partner for Peer Review, Expert Reports, Studies and Surveys within the context of Architectural Acoustics Consultation. Peer review is the evaluation of work and studies conducted by other parties. This work is often required to maintain standards of quality, assess solutions and designs; provide a second opinion or variations to a concept, create alternate solutions to improve performance and efficiency, provide credibility; and verify costing and time table analysis. WSDG’s studies and surveys are often based on in-situ or laboratory measurements and assessments utilizing a wide range of international benchmarks and standards.