In large spaces and especially public places, acoustics is an important but too often neglected issue. Perhaps even more so when this public space is a collective catering facility in a medical environment. Atelier Guggisberg's know-how and expertise were put to use in the acoustic renovation of a hospital canteen, where patients and staff rub shoulders, but not only. The details...
A major and essential project
Atelier Guggisberg was commissioned by an architect specialising in the design and restoration of industrial kitchens. The project concerned the acoustic renovation of a multi-purpose space equipped with a wooden false ceiling. The whole was located within a hospital.
One space, two uses
As a catering space, the area was separated into two, one used by hospital staff and the other by patients. Between the two, a central kitchen island.
Outside of meal times, it could be used as a conference room by the management.
The needs
In addition to improving the acoustics of the premises, this project included the renovation of the lighting. This part required the installation of several groups of 4 spotlights each by certified electricians.
Due to the dual use of the collective catering space (reception for meals and conference room), we based the stage of our work on an architectural plan designed to improve the acoustics by absorbing the sound:
- Above the self-service island, an area of concentrated noise, as users respect their plates on meal trays and stainless steel trolley movements;
- Above the tables;
- During conferences, in order to preserve the confidentiality of exchanges, we have added acoustic walls on wheels, thus allowing flexibility in the distribution of conference zones.
The preferred solutions
For the restoration aspect: we treated the existing false ceiling. For this, in accordance with the architect's plans, we occupied the entire surface above the central kitchen island. The Atelier Guggisberg used acoustic fabric and soundproofing materials.
For the restoration aspect: we treated the existing false ceiling. For this, in accordance with the architect's plans, we occupied the entire surface above the central kitchen island. The Atelier Guggisberg used acoustic fabric and soundproofing materials.The techniques used
One of the main challenges of this acoustic renovation project is the wooden false ceiling! How do you attach the cable suspension system, carabiners etc. to such a surface? At the end, acoustic foam, 1 x 1 m and sometimes 1 x 2 m acoustic fabrics.
We opted to install a custom-made acoustic frame, manufactured in the municipality of Rolle, using wood from Switzerland. The result was not only solid and reliable, but also very cost effective compared to industrially manufactured solutions.
A reminder of the importance of acoustics in the hospital environment
In hospitals, a quiet sound environment helps patients sleep better and thus strengthens their immune system, thus promoting recovery. They are not the only beneficiaries, since in such a setting, staff perform better and make fewer mistakes, because of clearer communication, free of interference noise.
Noise in catering is a public health issue
Noise in a restaurant is usually 80 decibels, in some establishments even 110 dB, compared to the ideal 55 and 65 dB. The consequences are immediate, with customers and staff having to raise their voices to speak, to which can be added the noise of cutlery, trolleys, etc., causing fatigue and irritability. Not to mention the noise pollution when the noise is spread to the surrounding area.
The result?
A completely successful acoustic renovation and a client delighted with the result. The catering area of this hospital has become quieter and has been rid of its status as a source of noise pollution!
