While many restaurateurs struggle with acoustic issues, some are more critical than others. Take for instance, Tampa’s downtown Channelside restaurant Cena. A high-end Italian Cafe focused on upscale Mediterranean cuisine, the restaurant was a perfect storm of underlying acoustical concerns. The walls were painted gypsum with a significant square footage of windows. Meanwhile the tall ceilings created a large volume with little porous material to absorb the dinnertime conversation. The result – an echoey room that made conversing difficult.
With a limited budget and tight timeline before the holiday season, Cena management reached out to Commercial Acoustics for a cost-effective solution. We measured their reverberation time of approximately 1.1 seconds, relatively high for a commercial dining space. After simulating the proper amount and type of absorption material, we proposed the solution to achieve 0.7 seconds, ideal for this type of restaurant. The solution included 2” thick fiberglass clouds and panels – capable of absorbing the low-frequency discussions.
Within weeks we manufactured the acoustical ceiling clouds and panels in-house and coordinated installation. All fabric finishes were reviewed with the client and not only blended in but enhanced the existing décor. Installation occurred during closed business hours and was completed in a single afternoon. We measured reverb time afterwards and it met our target decay rates, but would it stand the true test? We met with Cena’s owner who was pleasantly surprised and stated “The panels really work! I had dinner with several friends and the place was packed and we had great ability to converse”.
Sound Absorption for Restaurants
We were able to provide this customized, acoustical solution before the busy holiday rush of patrons. Better yet, the manufacturing and installation took just over 3 weeks and we were able to deliver results to the client for under 6K.
Two years afterward, when Cena was undergoing an internal remodeling, Commercial Acoustics re-wrapped the ceiling clouds with new acoustical fabric to fit the new decor of the restaurant space.
How Much Absorption is Needed in Your Restaurant?
