Acoustics is how sound is transmitted in a space and is determined by the properties and qualities of a room/building. Due to their nature, restaurants don’t usually have the best acoustics with most dining environments featuring lots of hard surfaces, open space, and a general abundance of noise.

Why is Improving Restaurant Acoustics Necessary?

The acoustics of a restaurant, just like any public space, is relevant for several reasons.

Restaurant Noise Can Affect the Customer’s Experience

People typically don’t go to restaurants just for the food, it’s also a place for people to socialise or somewhere for businesses to host meetings. This noise creates a good, social atmosphere that makes the environment seem lively and fun, however if the noise is left uncontrolled it can become uncomfortably loud. When a restaurant becomes overly noisy, people’s abilities to socialise or even talk to staff are hindered, negatively impacting the ambience, and lowering your guest’s overall dining experience.

"Restauarant acoustics can affect customer ratings"

Employee Health Can be Affected

Long term exposure to noise above 85dB has been shown to cause damage such as long- or short-term hearing loss, and conditions such as tinnitus. Without proper noise control in restaurants, staff could be negatively affected.

It’s not just physical health that can be negatively affected by poor restaurant acoustics. Loud environments can lead to increased stress, especially with servers potentially finding it difficult to hear customers properly, leading to frustration for both the staff and the guests.

What Affects Restaurant Acoustics?

Acoustics are affected by a wide range of factors, from ceiling height to furniture choice.

Furnishings

Hard, flat surfaces reflect sound whereas soft, cushioned surfaces absorb more sound. With restaurants typically having more hard surfaces, sound has more opportunity to reflect, meaning it can be harder to keep noise levels down and prevent long reverberation times.

"Furnishings in restaurants affects acoustics"

Layout

The layout of a restaurant can make a significant difference to its acoustics. Lots of open space and high ceilings can increase reverberation times a sound waves will have longer to travel.

"The layout of a restaurant affects acoustics"

Number of People

People can help to reduce reverberation; however, they are also a source of noise. The more people you have in your restaurant, the more sources of noise there are and the higher the noise levels will be.

How to Improve Restaurant Acoustics

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to acoustics in any space as every environment is individual and will have different acoustic demands as well as unique aesthetic requirements. However, there are several solutions that can be used to enhance the acoustic quality of your restaurant.

Acoustic Rafts

Acoustic rafts are panels suspended from the ceiling that absorb sound waves from above. They’re ideal for restaurants as they offer a unique design element whilst providing practical levels of sound absorption. They’re most effective when used directly above the source of the noise, so placing acoustic rafts over the tables in your restaurant is a great way to improve acoustics.

"Acoustic rafts in resatuarant"

Acoustic Ceiling Tiles

Acoustic ceiling tiles offer a more subtle but still highly effective approach to acoustics. If your restaurant features a very minimalist aesthetic or you simply don’t have much space for elaborate décor, acoustic tiles are a great option.

Acoustic Wall Panels

Acoustic wall panels are a highly decorative option and are perfect if you’re looking to add some eye-catching décor to your restaurant whilst gaining outstanding acoustic benefits. Acoustic panels are an incredibly popular form of acoustic treatment and are generally designed with aesthetics in mind which is why they are available in a wide range of styles, colours, designs, and sizes to accommodate almost any environment.

"Acoustic wall panels for Restaurant"

Acoustic Screens

Acoustic screens are an excellent choice for larger restaurants, especially those with booths as they can be easily fitted into the design. Room dividers are a really great way to provide guests with a better sense of privacy as well as significantly reduce noise transference across the floor.

Need a Hand With Your Restaurant's Acoustics?

Getting your restaurant acoustics right is essential to achieving the perfect ambience. At Muffle, our team of acoustic experts are always on hand to help ensure your space is treated properly so you can keep your business thriving. You can get in touch with an expert today via email, phone, or our live chat!