Indoor noise control is not a significant issue in interior design. However, in offices, classrooms or home theaters bad acoustics can destroy comfort and productivity. The ceiling is also important in sound management - the material used in the ceiling can make a noisy environment a peaceful one.
Echo and reverberation: sound waves are reflected by hard surfaces such as concrete, glass, or tiles to cause the creation of sound waves which are echoed and reverberated. The smoother the surface the greater the accumulation of noise. False ceilings or false ceilings assist in that they absorb or diffract sound waves before they bounce back.
These are the best absorbing materials of sound in ceilings. They are made either of mineral wool or fiberglass and have micro-perforations that trap sound waves. They are usually applied in the offices, schools and conference halls to ensure the clearness of the speech and less tiredness.
60 to 80 percent maximum sound absorption (NRC 0.6-0.8).
They also conceal the wiring, as well as better insulation.
Perforated gypsum boards are very stylish and have moderate sound absorbing features. Combined with acoustic support, they absorb the mid-frequency sound which is suitable in a home theater, classroom, or lounge.
Suspended designs are the most effective with sound-absorbing infill.
Sound absorbing and diffusing acoustic membranes can be incorporated into tensioned fabric systems. They are very color customizable and shape customizable, suitable in auditoriums or other fine interior designs to have a very high performance appearance.
Wood wool boards are a sustainable solution, which is a combination of natural wood fibers and cement, which forms a textured surface, which breaks the sound reflections. They are excellent in the studios, restaurants, and libraries, where warmth and silence are needed.
Minimizing the echo is not only about silence, but also comfort, attention, and quality design. Mineral fiber and perforated gypsum ceilings are the best in regards to the best acoustic performance yet fabric and wood-fiber ceilings are the best in terms of beauty and sound control. The proper ceiling material does not simply alter the appearance of a space, it makes it feel different.