Characterization of restaurant soundscapes based on logged sound levels and occupancy measurements

Abstract

Sound levels in a restaurant depend on a variety of factors including the restaurant’s room shape, materials, seating layout, and the levels of ambient and human-produced noise. To better understand the characteristics of restaurant acoustics in real world settings, an in situ study has been undertaken in a sampling of sit-down dining venues. Assorted geometric room characteristics, impulse responses, and background noise data were gathered from the spaces. Sound levels were also logged in the restaurants during operating hours simultaneously with occupant count and density using thermal imaging. The gathered data are analyzed to characterize the soundscapes of some existing restaurants. In particular, the research aims to understand how sound levels increase with occupancy and how specific architectural and design features such as seating style and density may contribute to experienced sound levels.Sound levels in a restaurant depend on a variety of factors including the restaurant’s room shape, materials, seating layout, and the levels of ambient and human-produced noise. To better understand the characteristics of restaurant acoustics in real world settings, an in situ study has been undertaken in a sampling of sit-down dining venues. Assorted geometric room characteristics, impulse responses, and background noise data were gathered from the spaces. Sound levels were also logged in the restaurants during operating hours simultaneously with occupant count and density using thermal imaging. The gathered data are analyzed to characterize the soundscapes of some existing restaurants. In particular, the research aims to understand how sound levels increase with occupancy and how specific architectural and design features such as seating style and density may contribute to experienced sound levels.