Most of Interior Designers Are Making This Costly Mistake

Why Ignoring Acoustics Could Ruin Your Design Vision PET FELT

Amid the race to create visually stunning spaces, 80% of interior designers overlook a critical element: acoustics. The result? Beautiful rooms plagued by echoes, noise pollution, and discomfort. At Akinco, we’ve seen firsthand how poor acoustic planning can undermine even the most luxurious designs. In this article, we’ll explore the most common acoustic mistakes and share actionable solutions to elevate your projects from Instagram-worthy to truly livable.

The Mistake: Prioritizing Aesthetics Over Sound

In a region where urban density and booming construction are the norm (think Dubai’s high-rises or Abu Dhabi’s mixed-use hubs), noise is inevitable. Traffic, HVAC systems, and bustling communal spaces generate sound waves that ricochet off hard surfaces like marble floors and glass walls. Unfortunately, many designers focus solely on visual appeal, treating acoustics as an afterthought. The consequences?

– Clients complain about echoey spaces despite lavish interiors.
– Productivity drops in offices due to distracting noise.
– Homeowners struggle to relax in noisy apartments.

The solution? Integrate acoustics into your design blueprint from Day 1.

The Fix: 6 Acoustic Solutions Every Designer Needs

Soundproofing Windows: Silence the City Chaos

In the Gulf’s urban hubs, street noise is a constant challenge. Double-glazed or laminated acoustic windows can reduce sound transmission by up to 50%. For luxury projects, opt for argon-filled glass with specialized seals perfect for high-rise apartments overlooking Sheikh Zayed Road or Dubai Marina.
Pro Tip: Pair windows with heavy, noise-blocking curtains for added insulation.

Soundproofing Doors: Seal the Deal

A stunning door means nothing if it lets in hallway chatter. Use solid-core doors with acoustic seals and automatic drop-down thresholds. For office spaces, consider acoustic-rated fire doors that combine safety and silence.²

Soundproofing Glass: Style Meets Substance

Open-plan designs are trending, but glass partitions can turn offices into echo chambers. Acoustic laminated glass or interlayered PVB glass maintains transparency while dampening sound. Ideal for corporate offices or chic residential lofts.²

Acoustic Ceiling Solutions: Hidden Heroes

Suspended ceilings aren’t just for lighting! Mineral fiber or wood wool acoustic panels absorb airborne noise, while stretch ceilings with sound-absorbing backings add a modern touch. Bonus: They hide unsightly HVAC ducts.²

Acoustic Wall Panels: Art That Works

Who says functional can’t be fashionable? PET felt panels (made from recycled plastics) or fabric-wrapped acoustic boards double as statement art pieces. Use them in hotel lobbies, home theaters, or coworking spaces to balance aesthetics and acoustics.²

Sustainable Acoustic Solutions: Go Green

Gulf clients increasingly demand eco-friendly designs. Recycled PET felt (from plastic bottles) and bio-based insulation materials reduce carbon footprints while enhancing sound absorption. Win-win!²

Why Sustainability Matters in Acoustic Design

The Gulf region is embracing sustainability, and acoustic solutions are no exception. Recycled materials like PET felt not only combat noise but also align with Gulf’s Vision 2030 goals.
For example:
– PET Felt Panels: Durable, fire-resistant, and made from 60% recycled content.
– Eco-Friendly Insulation: Cork or recycled cotton batts for walls and ceilings.

By choosing sustainable options, you appeal to environmentally conscious clients and future-proof your designs.

Case Study: Transforming a Noisy Dubai Apartment
Akinco recently partnered with a Dubai-based designer to revamp a luxury apartment plagued by noise from nearby construction. The fix?
– Acoustic windows with noise reduction ratings (NRR) of 40 dB.
– Felt wall panels in geometric patterns for visual flair.
– Cork underlayment beneath flooring to dampen impact noise.

The result? A serene, stylish space that earned the designer rave reviews and repeat clients.²

Conclusion: Design for the Ears, Not Just the Eyes

Great interior design isn’t just about what you see it’s about how a space feels. By integrating acoustic solutions early, you avoid costly retrofits and deliver environments that truly resonate with clients. Whether you’re crafting a tranquil villa in Abu Dhabi or a dynamic co-working space in Riyadh, acoustics are the secret ingredient to perfection.

At Akinco, we specialize in bespoke acoustic solutions for the Gulf and Gulf region. From soundproof glass to sustainable PET felt, we’ll help you turn noise into nuance.

Ready to fix the mistake most designers make?
📞 Contact Akinco today for a free consultation