Indoor swimming pools and public baths often face a common challenge: excessive echo and reverberation. The large, open spaces and hard surfaces of tile, water, and glass amplify sound, creating a noisy atmosphere that can be unpleasant for visitors.

However, the good news is that this problem can be effectively managed with the use of modern acoustic panels. At the Florian Berndl Bad, a public bath in Austria, a recent installation of acoustic panels successfully transformed the sound environment, demonstrating how acoustic treatment can work wonders even in large indoor pool areas.

Acoustic Challenges in Public Baths and Swimming Pools

The architectural design of indoor pools typically prioritizes durability and hygiene, which means they are usually made with materials that are highly reflective of sound. This creates an environment where sounds bounce off surfaces, leading to echo and reverberation. In busy public pools, the combined sounds of voices, water splashes, and movement can make the atmosphere overly loud and chaotic.

To address this, sound-absorbing solutions that are safe, effective, and resistant to humidity are essential. Acoustic treatment in public swimming pools is not just about reducing noise; it’s also about creating a more enjoyable, calm, and welcoming space for patrons.

How Acoustic Panels Were Used in the Florian Berndl Bad

In the case of Florian Berndl Bad, a facility in Austria, Flat Panel VMT acoustic panels were installed on the ceiling to significantly reduce echo and reverberation. The project was led by 4Audio, Vicoustic’s Austrian partner, who carefully selected this particular panel for its proven performance in public spaces with high humidity.

Flat Panel VMT panels are made from VicPET Wool, an innovative material developed specifically for sound absorption and composed largely of recycled plastic bottles. This unique construction ensures that the panels are durable and environmentally friendly, meeting strict requirements for both safety and air quality.

Why Flat Panel VMT is Ideal for Public Pools

Flat Panel VMT panels were an ideal choice for Florian Berndl Bad for several reasons:

Humidity Resistance: One of the main challenges in treating a swimming pool with acoustic panels is finding materials that can withstand high humidity. Traditional acoustic panels can deteriorate in such environments, but Flat Panel VMT panels, designed with Vicoustic’s VMT technology, are resistant to humidity, ensuring a long-lasting solution for public baths and pools.

Safe for Indoor Air Quality: Public spaces, especially those with young children, require materials that are safe for indoor air quality. VicPET Wool, used in these panels, emits very low levels of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) and is free from formaldehyde. The material is certified by OEKO-TEX Standard 100, meeting safety standards for human health, even for sensitive groups like infants.

Eco-Friendly Composition: With sustainability in mind, VicPET Wool is primarily made from recycled plastic bottles, making these acoustic panels a smart choice for environmentally conscious facilities. This helps the swimming pool or public bath reduce its ecological footprint while improving its acoustics.

Comfortable and Easy Handling: VicPET Wool panels are thermally bonded without chemicals, creating a material that is safe to handle. They don’t irritate the skin or eyes and produce no dust during installation, making the process safer and more comfortable for installers.

Results and Benefits: A More Pleasant Acoustic Environment

The installation at Florian Berndl Bad dramatically reduced the echo and reverberation time in the pool area, turning it into a calmer, more enjoyable space. Patrons can now enjoy conversations and the ambiance without overwhelming noise. The project demonstrates how effective acoustic panels can be in transforming the sound environment of large indoor spaces.

By strategically installing acoustic panels like Flat Panel VMT in a swimming pool or public bath, facilities can enhance the experience for visitors, reduce noise levels, and create a more comfortable environment. With the right materials and professional installation, it’s possible to address the unique acoustic challenges of these spaces, providing a quieter, more peaceful experience for everyone.