Description

Growth in medium‑density housing is raising concerns about noise transmission between dwellings. Early involvement of acoustic experts helps avoid costly fixes and ensures compliance with sound transmission Building Code requirements (clause G6).

• Medium-density houses present a range of design challenges – including acoustic performance.
• Many living in medium-density buildings raise noise-related issues as having a significant impact on wellbeing and quality of life.
• Acoustic performance needs to be considered early in the design process.
• Identifying sources of undesirable noise is critical.
• Involving acoustic design experts in the process will ensure effective solutions.

Increased pressure on Aotearoa New Zealand’s existing residential building stock, particularly the need for intensification in major urban areas, together with the challenge to improve housing affordability have seen significant growth in the construction of medium-density housing (MDH).

To create common terminology – for the industry and the public – BRANZ has defined MDH as multi-unit dwellings up to six storeys.

Scope

This article includes:

• Noise-related design challenges
• Considering acoustics
• Identifying noise sources
• Defining sound transmission 
• Noise-reduction measures
• Building Code requirements
• Acoustic design guidelines
• Material selection
• Construction considerations