BABICHacoustics

BABICHacoustics provided acoustical consulting for the renovation of the NICU at Allegheny Health Network’s West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh.

Acoustical design plays an important role in creating quieter, more supportive healthcare environments for patients, families, and staff. Learn more about this project on our website: https://www.babichacoustics.com/west-penn-nicu

Exponential growth of AI and cloud computing is altering the footprint of the technology industry. These modern facilities require large rooftop cooling arrays to dissipate heat generated by the computing equipment inside. This is the primary source of noise, since they typically run 24/7. Cooling needs are typically highest on the hottest days of the year but may be reduced at night, when temperatures are cooler. Learn more in our blog "Environmental Noise Control: Data Centers and Energy Facilities". https://www.babichacoustics.com/sounds/data-centers

We are excited to welcome Gage Wimberly to BABICHacoustics as a Summer Intern!

Gage is currently pursuing a degree in Acoustic Engineering and Music from the University of Hartford in Hartford, Connecticut, and will graduate in 2027. He is excited to learn more about all areas of acoustical consulting, especially mechanical noise control. Gage is a cellist in the Hartt School Orchestra and plays bass for various bands across his university campus, having played both instruments since elementary school. In his spare time, he enjoys rock climbing, printmaking, and caring for his aquariums.

We couldn’t be more thrilled to have him on our team this summer as he gains experience in acoustics, noise, and vibration control consulting!

BABICHacoustics provides solutions to meet the speech privacy and intelligibility needs of hospitality clients. In hotels, sound isolation between guest rooms and noise control in public spaces is essential. Ballrooms, meeting spaces, and other public spaces need to be free from reverberation to improve speech intelligibility and control noise between rooms. Communication suffers when details are overlooked.

Learn more about hospitality spaces on our website: https://www.babichacoustics.com/hospitality

Q: Why do some spaces sound louder when they’re crowded?

A: As more people occupy a space, conversations and movement increase overall noise levels. In rooms with too many hard surfaces, sound reflects and builds up, making the environment feel even louder. Acoustical finishes such as absorptive ceilings, wall panels, carpet, and other treatments help control noise build-up and improve comfort in reverberant environments.

Q: What is sound masking and when is it used?

A: Sound masking is the introduction of a controlled, consistent background sound to reduce the perception of unwanted noise, especially speech. It is commonly used in open offices, healthcare settings, and other shared environments where privacy is important. By raising the ambient sound level in a balanced way, sound masking helps make conversations less intelligible and reduces distractions without making a space feel louder.

Today, we remember the brave men and women and the sacrifices they made.

As music enthusiasts, performing arts spaces, studios, and theatres have a special place in our hearts.

We design performing arts spaces to enhance music clarity and speech intelligibility. Because auditoriums and theaters often have multiple functions, a delicate balance between speech and music is necessary. Every seat in the house must have a pleasant acoustic experience. Learn about our studio and theatre projects on our website: https://www.babichacoustics.com/studios-theaters

Q: Why does building layout impact acoustics?

A: The placement of rooms and building systems plays a major role in how sound travels. Locating noise-sensitive spaces next to mechanical rooms, elevators, or high-traffic areas can add unwanted noise and vibration issues. By coordinating layout decisions early, acoustical consultants help minimize conflicts and reduce the need for costly fixes later. Good acoustics often start with smart planning.

One of the most common challenges is managing unwanted noise. It is often more prevalent in urban environments, but noise can be even more noticeable in quiet suburban and rural areas. Whether noise from traffic, machinery, or nearby activities is the culprit, effective acoustic design and noise control can greatly enhance the daily experience of both workers and residents.

Learn how acoustics & noise control in mixed-use buildings can help improve sound for everyone involved: https://www.babichacoustics.com/sounds/mixeduse