Invisible Acoustics

“When I walk into a room, first thing I notice is its architecture – its dimensions, materials, surfaces. Then I notice its acoustics. I hear its sound quality and beauty.” - Arthur Fries, Founder N’H AKUSTIK + DESIGN AG

When PMDL architects set out to design the foyer of the Future Fund HQ in Melbourne they were looking for sleek and elite. The space had to be stylish. A sanctuary from the hustle of the streets.

Acoustics often aren’t given a thought in the design of these foyers. Then someone complains. The receptionist can’t hear customers on the phone, staff struggle through meetings or people avoid the space entirely. Then we get the call.

This project was different. The brief was clear, “we want acoustic treatments that you don't see” We had what they needed; Micro perforated timber panels, sub mm holes practically invisible to the eye but with an extremely high NRC.

The holes are burned in by laser, this is Swiss precision, not cheap imitation. There is only one machine in the world that can do this. The Future Fund foyer deserved the best.

Last week I photographed this space. I experienced the product first hand.

I know the acoustic data is exact, but it’s still sometimes hard to believe, how can sub mm holes absorb sound? I remember the first micro job we installed, the acoustic consultant who spec’d it swung by to run a few tests, he looked really surprised.

“It actually works!”

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