Acoustic comfort is now a commercial imperative, and Sownd Certification makes it simple

Ben Hancock, Managing Director of Oscar Acoustics explains the benefits of Sownd Certification.

With 30% of people identifying as noise-sensitive, designing for acoustic inclusivity is a commercial and moral imperative. Sownd Certification from Sownd Affects provides a simple, credible framework to turn acoustic comfort into measurable return on investment.

For too long, acoustics have been treated as a secondary consideration in the design and construction process, an item to be value-engineered out when budgets get tight. But with growing client demand for inclusive designs to achieve WELL compliance, and with mounting evidence linking acoustic comfort to wellbeing, productivity and reduced absenteeism, an indifferent approach to acoustics is becoming commercially unsustainable.

SonaSpray K-13 Special in Oscar Acoustics’ HQ – set to be the world’s first Sownd Certified building. ©Antonia Stuart

The reality is that many of us find typical public and commercial spaces challenging. Around a third of people are noise-sensitive, a group that includes those with neurodivergent conditions like autism and ADHD, individuals with hearing loss, and many others who experience sensory overload in poorly designed acoustic environments. Our research shows that seven out of ten people find their workplace too noisy, and eight of ten would not return to a restaurant with poor acoustics. These are sobering statistics; representing lost revenue, reduced productivity and a workforce that feels unsupported.

This is where Sownd Certification comes in. Unlike the complexity of existing frameworks in construction, this certification is intentionally straightforward. It provides the industry with a simple, credible and commercially valuable for audio inclusivity, transforming the abstract concept of acoustic performance into a tangible asset that clients and end users can recognise and value. For the first time, we have a clear system to measure and communicate the benefits of good acoustic design.

The value of this certification is clear across the entire supply chain. For acoustic consultants, it offers a way to add quantifiable value for clients without increasing workload, while reducing professional indemnity insurance exposure through a clear framework. For architects, it provides a powerful tool to strengthen design proposals and create a competitive edge when bidding for projects, meeting the growing demand for healthier, more inclusive buildings. For interior designers, it offers a credible framework to justify acoustic treatments to clients whilst enhancing both performance and aesthetics. For contractors and quantity surveying teams, the straightforward process removes ambiguity and reduces the risk of costly remedial work, particularly valuable on design and build projects where specifications often need adjustment.

SonaSpray K-13 Special and fc in in Oscar Acoustics’ HQ – set to be the world’s first Sownd Certified building. ©Antonia Stuart

Achieving the foundational Bronze level of certification has also been made incredibly simple. At Oscar Acoustics, our SonaSpray acoustic finishes are the first products to automatically qualify for Bronze Sownd Certification upon installation. These seamless acoustic sprays sequester carbon for the installed lifetime and are made from recycled materials, including fire-treated recycled paper, cotton and hemp. They are M1 Low Emitting Building Material certified, GREENGUARD Gold certified, and support BREEAM, WELL, LEED and SKA building standards.

If you are looking for a more high-end and elegant finish our exceptionally smooth Oscar Elite acoustic plaster also automatically qualifies for Bronze Sownd Certification.

Oscar Acoustics’ products allow project teams to meet a trusted and recognised standard of acoustic inclusivity without adding complexity, future-proofing projects against rising inclusivity standards.

Designing for acoustic inclusivity is no longer a niche field. It’s a fundamental aspect of creating successful, human-centric spaces. Sownd Certification provides a clear path for the construction industry to build a more comfortable, productive and inclusive world for everyone. The measurable ROI from improved user satisfaction, reduced staff turnover and competitive differentiation makes this a productive investment, not a cost.

Find out more about how Sownd Certification can future-proof your projects.