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NTA Headquarters Acoustic Design

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Designing Acoustically Collaborative Headquarters

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Built EnvironmentBuilt Environment

Industry

Federal, State & Provincial

Location

Ireland

AWN, a Trinity Consultants team, provided comprehensive acoustic design, construction supervision, and post-completion testing for the National Transport Authority’s new 7,400 sqm headquarters in Dublin, creating an open-plan workspace that balances collaboration with acoustic privacy.

 

Challenge

The National Transport Authority’s new headquarters in Smithfield, Dublin, consolidates several smaller offices into one centralized, modern building spanning over 7,400 sqm across six floors. The transition from private offices to an open-plan layout posed significant acoustic challenges, with speech privacy and noise control emerging as key concerns. Excessive noise in open offices can reduce productivity and affect employee well-being, requiring a robust acoustic strategy that addressed both design expectations and practical performance.

 

Solutions

To address these challenges, AWN implemented a range of innovative acoustic solutions. A key approach was the selection of high-performance acoustic materials to control noise propagation within the open-plan areas. Acoustic ceilings, wall treatments, and flooring were carefully chosen to absorb sound effectively and minimise reverberation, resulting in a more comfortable and functional working environment

Additionally, the layout was strategically designed to incorporate acoustic buffers, such as partitions and furniture arrangements, to separate open-plan areas. Cellular offices and soundproof phone booths were also integrated into the design, offering employees private spaces for focused work and confidential conversations. These features ensured that privacy and acoustic comfort were maintained without compromising the open and collaborative nature of the workspace.

Services Performed

The team developed acoustic design specifications, supervised construction, and conducted post-construction testing and verification. They advised on material selection and planned layout and acoustic zoning.

Results

During the construction phase, AWN worked closely with contractors to ensure that acoustic measures were implemented to the highest standards. Post-construction testing further verified the success of the design, confirming that the acoustic environment met the rigorous criteria set during the planning phase.

The result is a cutting-edge office that seamlessly combines functionality, collaboration, and acoustic comfort. The NTA headquarters in Smithfield now serves as an exemplary model of modern office design, providing a high-quality workspace that supports the well-being and productivity of its 500 employees. AWN’s expertise and meticulous approach to acoustic design were instrumental in achieving this outcome, ensuring the headquarters delivers both a vibrant and acoustically comfortable environment for years to come.

7,400 sqm

Collaborative open-plan HQ

500 staff

Supported by strategic acoustic design

1

Centralised modern office replacing multiple buildings