Solving Acoustic Problems in Multi-Family Residential Spaces

Thankfully, there are cost-effective acoustic strategies available to architects and builders to help mitigate some of these persisting problems. Protecting units from outside noise pollution with proper acoustics makes for more valuable units and a happier client base.

Hallways can be incredibly disruptive to tenants. People travel hallways at all hours and sometimes walk heavy or slam doors late at night.

Consider using soft materials on the floor and insulating the walls with products that are engineered to absorb sound. Throw rugs, carpet, natural fibers and even wall-hung tapestries will help to mitigate excessive noise originating in the hallway. Products like Square or Groovy Panels can pull double duty by controlling excess sound while also improving the design interest in the hallway.

By design, common areas are meant to be lively, inviting places where neighbors can interact with each other and their extended friends and family. However, large groups tend to become noisy in their enthusiasm, which can disturb the nearby units if the appropriate acoustic measures aren’t taken.

Plan for common areas to be situated far away from a majority of the units to minimize noise exposure. Also, use buffer spaces such as hallways, lobbies or mechanical rooms to help further separate the common areas from the private residences.

You can also use ceiling baffles to prevent the noise from traveling, either around the room or into the nearby halls. Baffles can add a decorative element to the public space and ensure tenants aren’t acoustically uncomfortable from the noise in the open area.

If you want to create smaller areas, consider using partitions. They can carve out a corner for smaller groups to meet while also providing privacy and acoustic comfort. Common areas are another great place for the use of wall tiles. Using a textured tile can add interest to the walls and dampen the sound in the open space.

Much like common areas, fitness amenities have a tendency to increase sound pollution. Lifting weights, conversations and the use of cardio equipment all contribute to a fun, but loud, environment.

For a floor/ceiling assembly between floors, building code requires an STC of 50 as the minimum acceptable performance. However, this is just the minimum requirement, and it can still result in loud music, parties or excessive stomping being heard in adjacent units.

Everyone who lives in a multi-family residential building will likely use both the lobby and the stairs or elevator numerous times throughout the day. High foot traffic in these areas is a common source of acoustic problems.

For units adjacent to or close to the lobby, stairs or elevator core, you should include extra soundproofing in the walls. The added protection will make sure no mechanical, footsteps or lobby sounds disturb the tenant.

If you’re looking to retrofit an existing multi-family building with better acoustic protection, the most effective solution is to invest in finish materials that are designed to promote good acoustics. Using materials that not only prevent acoustic problems, but are also sustainable and healthy, can contribute to a better living experience.

For instance, materials such as carpet, rubber or cork on your floor will cause less noise than hardwood floors in hallways and staircases. Look for acoustic products that are easy to install and serve multiple purposes. Designers should be looking for products that pull double-duty, and don’t require massive renovations or expensive, time-consuming permits to install.

Implementing good acoustic practices in multi-family building design results in healthier, happier clients. Unfortunately, acoustics are often one the of last things to be considered when designing a multi-family structure.