When embarking on a refurbishment and fit-out project, the myriad of standards and criteria that need to be adhered to can be overwhelming. One key element that often requires early attention is acoustics. To understand the importance of this, I sat down with Emma Hughes, an experienced project manager who recently navigated a complex BREEAM-certified refurbishment. Her insights illuminate the critical role of a suitably qualified acoustician in ensuring compliance with BREEAM standards.
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Early Appointment for Optimal Outcomes
Emma’s project was ambitious: a multi-functional office space in a bustling urban area. From the get-go, she knew that acoustic performance would be a major factor. “We were surrounded by traffic, construction sites, and even a nearby railway line. The acoustic challenges were immense,” she recalls.
According to BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method), a suitably qualified acoustician (SQA) must be appointed at an appropriate stage of the project. This is essential to ensure that early design advice on criteria is incorporated into the project’s development. Emma underscores this, “We brought our acoustician on board during the early design phase, right after our initial site survey. This early involvement was crucial.”
The Value of Early Design Advice
Emma’s acoustician, Sarah Thompson, started by conducting a comprehensive noise assessment. “Sarah’s early advice was invaluable,” Emma notes. “She helped us understand the specific noise sources and their potential impact on our project.”
Sarah’s input at this stage allowed the design team to integrate acoustic solutions into the very fabric of the building. “One of her recommendations was to use enhanced glazing and acoustic barriers in certain areas. Without her early involvement, we might have missed these critical details.”
Ensuring Compliance and Avoiding Costly Amendments
BREEAM requires that all recommendations from the acoustician be followed to achieve the necessary credits. Emma explains how this was managed on her project: “Sarah provided a detailed acoustic report, which became our go-to document throughout the design and construction stages. It was a living document that guided many of our decisions.”
By adhering to Sarah’s recommendations from the outset, Emma’s team avoided costly amendments later in the project. “We’ve all heard those horror stories where projects have to go back and retrofit solutions. Having Sarah on board early on meant we avoided those pitfalls.”
The Technical Requirements
The technical requirements for acoustic performance in BREEAM projects are stringent. According to the standards, the internal ambient noise levels, sound insulation, and reverberation times must all be meticulously calculated and adhered to. Sarah’s role was to ensure that these requirements were met and documented.
“Sarah used a combination of on-site measurements and predictive modelling,” Emma says. “Her expertise ensured that our project not only met but exceeded the BREEAM criteria for acoustics.”
The Benefits of Compliance
Achieving the BREEAM credits for acoustic performance had several benefits for Emma’s project. “First and foremost, it contributed significantly to our overall BREEAM rating, which was a key objective for us,” she explains. “But beyond that, the enhanced acoustic environment has made a tangible difference to the comfort and productivity of our building’s occupants.”
Emma points out that a well-considered acoustic design can also contribute to the building’s marketability. “Prospective tenants were impressed by the level of detail we’d gone to in ensuring a high-quality acoustic environment. It definitely gave us a competitive edge.”
Final Thoughts
Emma’s experience underscores the importance of appointing a suitably qualified acoustician early in any BREEAM project. “It’s about more than just ticking a box,” she says. “It’s about integrating expert advice into the heart of your project to ensure you meet and exceed the required standards.”
For anyone embarking on a refurbishment and fit-out project, Emma’s advice is clear: “Don’t underestimate the importance of acoustics. Appoint your acoustician early, listen to their advice, and integrate their recommendations into your design. It will save you time, money, and stress in the long run.”
Emma’s journey through her BREEAM-certified project highlights the crucial role of early design advice from a qualified acoustician. It’s a lesson in proactive planning and expert collaboration, ensuring that projects not only meet but exceed the high standards set by BREEAM.
John Williams
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