Q&A with an Acoustics Engineer: Exploring Key Trends in Acoustics Design – Part 2

In the second installment of our Q&A with Robby Deem, our acoustics and vibration discipline leader, we explore the impact of large stakeholder groups on acoustics design, alternative delivery methods, and trends driving the need for hyper flexible spaces and increased space utilization. For a deeper dive into key trends shaping the future of acoustics and vibration engineering, be sure to check out part one of the series and keep reading below. 

Q: What alternative delivery methods are becoming prevalent, and what is your acoustics team’s role in delivering these projects?

A: Seventy-five percent of construction projects face delays or go over budget. As a result, owners and developers are increasingly turning to alternative delivery methods to improve efficiency, manage risk, and deliver higher-quality projects faster. According to the EPA, the construction industry also creates around a third of the world’s waste, leading many to believe there’s a better and more efficient way to deliver projects.

We bring in-house tools and deep expertise to reduce change orders and keep projects on track for design items within our span of control. Our involvement starts during planning or conceptual design to address risks tied to acoustics and vibration before they impact budgets or schedules.

Preferred delivery methods vary by region, market, and delivery challenges especially for healthcare, higher education, transportation, and civic infrastructure. Although acoustic consultants typically contract under the Architect, there are opportunities to unlock by building strong relationships with the prime contract holder early, often the general contractor. This enables streamlined product reviews and construction detail development, reducing time, costs, and risks.

We train our staff to adapt, aligning our acoustics and vibration consulting with each method while tailoring communication to the contract holders and key stakeholders. This approach enhances the value and direct impact of our services, particularly in clarifying return on investment and risk shifts in alternative methods compared to traditional design-bid-build.

Q: Equity is now a key focus in design. How does this impact acoustic consulting?

A: Equity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a meaningful shift that’s reshaping how we approach design, including acoustics. Stakeholders are becoming more actively engaged and involved in the process which has had a direct and transformative impact on how we deliver and communicate our work.

Acoustics is fundamental to how people experience a space or place from a sensory perspective. By involving a diverse range of stakeholders, we gain insights that help us design environments that work better for everyone. Not every user has the same needs, and those needs can vary —from a corporate team collaborating in an office, to a museum visitor engaging with immersive exhibits, to an entire community impacted by a new development coming to their neighborhood or, the idea of a flight path for advanced air mobility vehicles over their homes.

Good acoustics are often invisible, and most people won’t notice them when they’re done right. Poor acoustics, however, have lasting and noticeable effects. For example, a noisy restaurant, a performance space in a park dominated by highway noise, or a structure that vibrates and makes occupants feel as if they are at sea. Those are experiences people remember and often speak out against. The consequences of bad acoustics aren’t just about comfort; they can directly affect health, wellbeing, safety, and inclusivity.

The rise of terms like “soundscaping” and “placemaking” reflect this growing awareness of the role sound plays in design. For me, this shift is exciting. It means we’re moving closer to creating spaces that aren’t just functional but also equitable and inclusive, ensuring everyone feels comfortable, heard, and valued. That’s what good design is all about.

Q:  Trends like hyper-flexible spaces and increased utilization are transforming design. How does this affect acoustic design?

A: Space utilization and hyper flexible spaces are topics on every project regardless of market vertical, especially in workplace, healthcare, and higher education projects.

We’re seeing a shift in priorities take place and impact projects throughout the entire design and construction process primarily related to the idea of being future-proof or resilient for the future. The rise of the hybrid work environments has created a shift in our downtowns and communities where we live resulting in more community focused developments, multi-function performance, and education spaces.

Spaces are transforming daily, and the acoustic environment must work in all scenarios with health, wellbeing, and inclusivity in mind. If it doesn’t, the space is not successful in terms of increasing utilization and return on investment to the community being served. We like the challenge that this presents, and it pushes our communication and delivery skills to be nimble and help our clients be confident in the solutions presented.

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TEECOM Can Help

TEECOM is a leader in providing innovative acoustics solutions across a wide variety of project types. With a strong focus on collaboration, TEECOM partners with stakeholders through all project phases to deliver high-quality, tailored acoustic designs that enhance user experience and functionality.

We offer comprehensive acoustics consulting services for conversions of all types. Our team conducts thorough acoustical assessments and develops customized solutions that meet the specific requirements of residential and lab environments. Whether it’s enhancing privacy in a residential conversion or controlling noise in a lab setting, we provide the expertise and solutions to ensure successful project outcomes.

For more information on our services and how we can support your project, click here or contact Robby Deem (robby.deem@teecom.com; 708-808-2446).

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About the Author

Robby is a Principal and Senior Consultant at TEECOM, responsible for leading the acoustics design team and overseeing multidisciplinary projects across a wide range of sectors, including higher education, arts & culture, workplace, healthcare, and science & technology. With more than 12 years of experience in acoustic consulting, Robby brings an extensive background in architectural engineering, performance-based design, and delivering technical excellence. His approach prioritizes collaboration and effective communication, consistently integrating sustainability, health, and well-being features into every project.

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