The buildings of the European Parliament, consisting of several different conference rooms and adjacent to a railway station, proved a real challenge for the acoustic engineers. The combination of an insulating layer to absorb the vibrations from the tracks and a new screening concept block out the noise of the rail traffic inside the building. Using three-dimensional computerized simulations and with the help of reflectors, diffusers and noise absorption panels, rooms with less effective acoustics were transformed into high-quality auditoria where the normal spoken word can be heard clearly from every corner. Close collaboration with the designers finally resulted in a wondrous harmony of acoustics and architecture.
Project details
Project name
European Parliament
Category
Governmental, Cultural and Religious
Contract type
Build
Location
Brussels, Belgium
Stakeholder(s)
BESIX
Client
European Union
Building Period
1990 - 2008
Total value
€ 848 million
