What caught my attention about the small recording studio in the photo was, of all things, its walls.
A studio wall serves two important functions — blocking outside noise from getting in, and absorbing sound from within to prevent reverberation.
Typically, studio walls are built with integrated insulation, and their interior surfaces are covered with soft acoustic panels designed to absorb echo.
So what's the logic of using glass, and how does it address these needs?
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Rigid, acoustically rated glass repels sound effectively.
To enhance its insulating performance, double-pane glass with a vacuum between the layers is used, leaving sound waves with no medium to travel through between the two panes.
To prevent echo from reflecting back into the studio, the inner pane is mounted at an angle, so that any reflected sound is directed toward the ceiling rather than toward the microphones on the desk.
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Still, why use glass instead of conventional insulation materials?
There are several reasons.
The studio is particularly small, and glass walls create a sense of openness that prevents claustrophobia.
Glass walls are far more aesthetically pleasing and modern, and they give visitors passing through the corridor a view of what's happening inside.
Glass walls also allow for easier communication through hand gestures.
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Do you know where I took these photos?
Feel free to guess in the comments 😉