2.4.3 Acoustics
Shopping malls typically have a high volume of ambient sound. Often, assorted services are provided in such places
and various events such as performances or parties are frequently held. A loud volume generally has a long echo, and
a long reverberation amplifies noise and reduces speech intelligibility. In order to minimise this effect, the space should
be designed with better sound absorption. In this connection, noise reduction can make a more pleasant atmosphere.
Designers are recommended to follow the design criteria for unoccupied rooms, which are tabulated in Figure 33.
Type of area Unoccupied room Recommended design sound level (dB(A))
1
Satisfactory Maximum
Reverberation time (s)
2
(500Hz octave)
Stores
Department store
- Main floor
- Upper floor
50
45
55
50
0.3 – 0.8
Small retail store (general) 45
50
Supermarket
50
55
Show room
45
50
Enclosed car park
55
65
Restaurants Restaurant
40
45
0.3 – 0.8
Coffee bars
40
50
Cafeteria
45
55
Figure 33 Recommended acoustic design criteria in typical shopping mall areas
1
Standards Australia. (1987). Australian/ New Zealand Standard AS/ NZS 2107:1987 Acoustics - Recommended design
sound levels and reverberation times for building interiors.
2
Michael Rettinger. (1977). Acoustic design and noise control volume II noise control. Chemical Publishing Company.
2.4.4 Professional help
It is important to engage professionals for detailed consultation about the implementation of green measures for
comfort levels in shopping malls and shop spaces. The following is a list of references for obtaining professional help:
• Authorised persons (AP) – Appendix A (2)
• Acoustic consultants – Appendix A (8)
• Registered professional engineers (RPE) in the building services discipline – Appendix A (4)
• Registered architects (RA) – Appendix A (5)
•
Appendix A (7)
2.4
Comfort level
2
The basics
Hong Kong Green Building Council 65
