Wineries Need Acoustics, too!

Tasteful decor, impeccable layout and exceptional wine are three elements that compose a superb wine tasting experience for the guests at Somerston. However, its likening to an echo chamber tragically drew away from its charm as the lack of ceiling acoustic treatment deemed the room almost unfit for patrons. The largest contributor to the sound issues clearly was the barrel ceiling. More often than not, I find that almost all barrel ceilings are the culprit to poor acoustics. Although they are an alluring accent to any room, lack of thought to overall acoustics in a space can result in a disaster. This is especially a disconcerting matter upon the addition of hardwood floors, glass doors, and numerous inventory of wine bottles and glasses. Comically, one should find every other person in the room cupping their hand to an ear as part of conversation amongst company.

As soon as I visited the venue, I knew exactly what the owners needed. The installation I utilized is called “WhisperSpan.” The fabric is 100% Treveria, and is available in 3 or 5 meter widths. The NRC of this fabric is .95, which is an exceptionally high level of sound absorption considering the fact that the typical t-bar ceiling in a commercial building has an NRC of .45.

The installation made a world of difference and the noticeable reduction in the cacophony of piercing echos helped to furthermore define the first class experience at Somerston. Cheers to another improved venue, which is certainly worthy of a five star toast!