Acoustics: the invisible advantage at design awards

In the world of interior architecture and spatial design, competition is fierce. Architects and designers are constantly looking for ways to make their work stand out on longlists, shortlists, and ultimately at prestigious awards and publications. Acoustics are also increasingly playing a role in the assessment of projects..

Although often invisible, a well-thought-out acoustic design creates a space that is not only beautiful to look at, but also feels and functions well. And just that one user experience can make a difference in professional juries and in the media.

From appearance to total experience

Design awards are no longer just a beauty contest. Whether it's about the Dutch Design Awards, FRAME Awards or international recognitions such as the Architizer A+ Awards: the focus is increasingly shifting from aesthetics alone to the total experience of a space.

Judges and editors look for designs that appeal to a deeper layer. That not only inspire visually, but also touch the other senses, offer rest or, on the contrary, energize. All at the service of the user. Acoustics plays an important role in this.

A beautifully designed space with annoying reverb, echo, or noisy acoustics will never touch that deeper emotional chord. While a room where sound is perfectly controlled is often described as “calming”, “intimate”, “professional” or even “connecting”. Terms that award judges can appreciate.

Acoustics as a secret asset

Take UNStudio's award-winning office design for Booking.com in Amsterdam, for example. In addition to the visual spectacle, the focus was on well-being and work comfort. The acoustic solutions, integrated into ceilings, walls and even furniture, were explicitly mentioned as part of the success.
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Or look at libraries such as De LocHal in Tilburg, winner of several international awards. The impressive industrial architecture is undeniably visually powerful, but without acoustic interventions, the whole thing would have remained cold and hollow. The sophisticated acoustics made the huge space inviting, human and functional. And that's exactly what earned praise and prizes.
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Emotional resonance and experience quality

In awards jury publications, we increasingly read terms such as “emotional resonance” and “quality of experience”. A space can be visually stunning, but when visitors feel rushed by noise or voices are lost in a cacophony, little of the impact remains. Acoustics are invisible, but highly tactile and audible. It determines whether a meeting goes smoothly, whether a customer feels welcome, or a visitor feels comfortable. These are elements that make the difference between a good project and an award-winning one.

Sustainability and acoustics: a winning combination

Sustainability is also playing an increasingly important role in award assessments. Acoustic solutions that contribute to the circular economy, a healthy indoor climate or energy efficiency are seen as added value. For example, Akoesta works with recycled materials, bio-based panels and modular systems who transportable and reusable are. These sustainable choices are not only appreciated by end users, but also by award juries that pay attention to the integral quality of a design.

Akoesta as partner in award-winning projects

At Akoesta, we understand that acoustics is not just a technical intervention, but a strategic design choice. We work closely with architects and interior designers to acoustic solutions to create that:

• Invisibly integrate into the design, or be visible

• Enhancing the user experience

• Contributing to sustainability goals

• And, last but not least, play a positive role in project publications and awards

Why it matters

For architects, recognition means more than just a trophy. Awards strengthen the professional profile, increase market visibility and attract new clients. Publications lead to networking opportunities, collaborations and long-term reputation building. The ultimate result is potential new clients.

And that is exactly the invisible advantage that offers acoustics in an increasingly competitive design world.

Do you also want to realise an award-winning project?

Akoesta thinks along with you from the start to seamlessly integrate acoustic quality into your design. For spaces that impress both the user and the jury.

Take contact for an informal consultation or examples of projects that make the power of acoustics visible (and audible).

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