Project Background
This 2,100 sq ft independent bookstore in downtown Montreal includes a multi-purpose event zone, reading nooks and public café areas. The original high ceiling and hard bookshelf surfaces caused excessive reverberation during author readings, book launches and community events. Speech clarity was poor, microphone feedback occurred frequently, and event noise disrupted quiet reading areas. The project required low-visibility acoustic tuning solutions that preserved the warm literary atmosphere of the bookstore.
Acoustic Solution
Grooved and perforated resonant panels are installed on the rear and side walls of the event space. Paired with mineral wool infill and rear air cavities, the panels are calibrated via acoustic simulation to target mid-low frequency standing waves, delivering balanced full-band absorption optimized for both spoken word events and daily reading. Reading zones and café ceilings are fitted with high-density smooth fiberglass tiles from the Ceiling Series. The flat, non-textured surface controls overhead reflections and reduces ambient noise across quiet areas. All panels are factory pre-cut to match bookshelf module dimensions, with a warm wood finish blending into the bookstore interior.
Project Outcomes
- Event space speech intelligibility improved by 45%
- Reverberation time stabilized at 1.1–1.3 seconds, ideal for both readings and daily use
- Microphone feedback issues nearly eliminated
- All materials meet ASTM E84 Class A fire safety standards for public assembly spaces
