Whether for informal or formal gatherings, good acoustics are decisive for comfortable communication. In the search for suitable wall solutions to improve acoustics, acoustic wall panels are often the first thought. Certainly a good solution, but did you also know that there are curtains with which a noise reduction of more than 60% can be achieved?
These curtains also make a difference on an aesthetic level. In combination with the many custom-made print options, these curtains transform into true eye-catchers in the interior.
The intended use of the space is leading
First of all: noise nuisance is subjective and highly space-dependent. For example, in a large factory hall, reverberation will not quickly be experienced as disturbing because actual consultation moments are often absent there. But in spaces where a certain intimacy is desired, such as office, hotel, and restaurant environments, it is a completely different story.
Acoustics are decisive in communication (speech intelligibility). Or more specifically: in preventing noise nuisance during work, dining, or overnight stays. In short: for the degree to which people feel comfortable – and that is exactly the combination that printed curtains provide.
In every space where speech takes place on a relatively small surface area, acoustic curtains offer added value.
Improving acoustics is a pragmatic process
Improving acoustics requires a pragmatic approach. Stand in the room and map out where most communication takes place and trace where the disturbing noise comes from. Then inventory how much surface area you need to cover for the desired acoustic effect. From this follows the choice of material and the application of the right atmospheric elements.
Pleasant staying and working
Curtains contribute to the atmosphere in the room in different ways. For example, dim-out curtains help to reduce light intensity. Transparent curtains with a color gradient are, in turn, very effective in creating a sense of security in the space, precisely by bringing in sufficient light.
The acoustic capacity of curtains highlighted
It is rightly thought that the thickness of the curtain fabric determines the acoustic effect, but there are more factors related to acoustic capacity. To help you on your way, you can be guided by the following rules of thumb when choosing acoustic curtains:
- The more opaque the curtains, the higher the acoustic values;
- The more pleats the curtains contain, the more air buffers there are and the greater the acoustic effect;
- The positioning of curtains influences the degree of sound absorption. Especially with window sections, much can be gained acoustically. Windows reflect sound and thus cause unpleasant reverberation. If possible, install curtains in the direction of speech for the maximum acoustic effect. If that is not possible, then acoustic printed wallpaper is a good alternative.
Printing on curtain fabric: things to take into account
At TREU, we like to think along with you about the possibilities for applying (custom-made) prints. There are a number of things to take into account when it comes to printing on curtain fabric:
- Dim-out curtains can be printed with a solid color on the back. On black-out curtains, it is possible to print on both the front and the back;
- When applying prints to both sides, one print must be used as a lining fabric for the other;
- The more transparent the fabric, the less the color experience in terms of depth. Similarly: the glossier the fabric, the more intense the color experience.
Premium acoustic curtains can be found at TREU
Not all curtains are the same. TREU interior specials carries various acoustic curtains in different…
- … qualities, including voile, transparent, black-out and dim-out;
- … structures and textures, including smooth, velvet, woven and wool-look;
- … finishes, including single pleat, double pleat, with fold
The curtain fabric is manufactured by Calcutta, the oldest weaving mill in Belgium. The textile company produces high-quality design curtains, which excel in sustainable and technical ingenuity:
- Through the use of polyester yarn, among other things, the fabric is highly recyclable;
- The curtains have good fire resistance with fire class B1;
- Due to the special weave structure, the fabric lasts a very long time and is easy to clean;
- That same fine, airy weave structure makes it possible to reduce reverberation by up to 66%;
- Free from PVC
Improve the acoustics
Also want to improve the acoustics? In addition to custom-made prints, you can also come to TREU for an extensive collection of standard designs.