Retail acoustics: the sound of the brand
A store's sound is part of its brand. The hush of a luxury boutique, the energy of a flagship and the clarity of a showroom consultation are all shaped by acoustics and the sound system. We help retail architects and designers set the right acoustic character, with treatment that fits the material palette and audio that supports the experience.
Customers rarely notice good retail acoustics. They notice when a store feels harsh, when music is too loud to talk over, or when a private conversation in a fitting room carries across the floor. Each of those can be designed out.
What we consider
Reverberation in hard, minimal interiors. Stone, polished concrete, glass and metal suit many retail concepts but reflect sound strongly. Without control, a busy store can feel noisy and tiring.
Music systems and zoning. Different areas of a store often need different music and levels: an energetic entrance, a calmer lounge, a quiet consultation area.
Consultation and fitting-room privacy. Clients discussing a bespoke commission, a fitting or a financial decision expect discretion.
Noise to neighbours. Many stores sit below or beside homes, where music, deliveries and late events can cause complaints.
Plant and services noise. Air conditioning, extract and refrigeration plant can affect both the shopping experience and neighbours.
How we help
Acoustic character brief. We start by agreeing how each area of the store should sound, in the brand's own terms, and translate that into criteria for reverberation, background noise and privacy.
Discreet absorption. We integrate absorption into joinery, display systems, ceilings and soft furnishings so the design keeps its material clarity. Where a concept calls for something distinctive, our statement acoustic product design service develops bespoke elements that perform and express the brand.
Sound system design. Our sound system design service plans loudspeakers, zoning and control alongside the interior, so audio is even across the floor and the equipment stays out of sight.
Neighbour noise assessment. We assess noise from music, events and plant to neighbouring homes, and support planning and licensing through our planning and expert advice service. Plant noise is commonly assessed to BS 4142, which our building services noise and vibration service covers.
Testing. We carry out measurement and testing before opening to confirm the store performs as designed, and to set music limits where neighbours are close.
Rolling out a concept
For brands opening several stores, acoustic decisions made for the flagship can be written into the design guidelines, so each new store benefits from the same thinking. With our Mayfair headquarters and studios in Milan, New York, Dubai and Hong Kong, we can support roll-outs across different cities and building types. Where a fit-out contractor proposes alternative finishes, our product acoustic verification and value engineering review check that savings do not cost performance.
Projects we have advised on
Auris provided acoustic design advice and consultancy on this project.
Harrods H Beauty, Essex: Harrods’ standalone beauty store at Lakeside, with treatments, consultations and demonstrations across 23,000 sq ft
Frequently asked questions
Why does a new store sound harsh when it opens? Usually because hard finishes reflect sound and there is little to absorb it. Absorption can often be added within ceilings, joinery and display elements without changing how the store looks.
Can music be loud in-store without disturbing neighbours? Often, yes, with the right sound insulation, loudspeaker positions and agreed limits. We assess the risk early so that the system and the building are designed together.
Do you work with retail interior designers as well as architects? Yes. We work with architects and interior designers alike, and fit around the programme and design process of the team.
Related services
Get in touch
Designing a store or showroom? Tell us about the space and the stage you are at. Get in touch, call 020 3949 1597 or email hello@auris-consultancy.com.