New ČSOB Building in Prague's Radlice: Perfect Acoustic Comfort and Unique Design

Introduction The human organism is strongly influenced by the sounds that surround it. This interaction depends on the intensity of the sound, its frequency, and the hearing sensitivity of individuals. Poor acoustic conditions can cause various complications, primarily negatively affecting the nervous system, which leads to a deterioration in work performance. It is therefore no surprise that investors of new administrative buildings place great emphasis on acoustic parameters. This is also true in the case of the new ČSOB headquarters in Prague's Radlice.

Full-fledged acoustic comfort When designing and implementing the new ČSOB building, attention was paid not only to its unique design and advanced technologies but also to ensuring acoustic comfort in all its forms. In this unique space, we provided acoustic oversight for the investor in the area of building and room acoustics, as well as noise studies. Our tasks also included evaluating the documentation at all phases of the project and verifying the compliance of the documentation during the realization of the building.

Unfortunately, control at the request of the investor is not used very often in the Czech Republic – it is usually required by large, often multinational companies and investors in projects where acoustics play a significant role. In the area of office spaces, especially in large open offices and with the overall openness of the building, it is essential to ensure full-fledged acoustic comfort and ideal working conditions for tasks that require concentration, as well as for workplaces designated for confidential meetings.

Specific requirements To ensure that the acoustic comfort in a given space meets all necessary criteria, both room and building acoustics must be addressed in the interior, along with a noise study for the exterior space. Another very important acoustic component is ensuring good intelligibility of spoken words, including the elimination of unwanted sound reflections. All of this was implemented with respect to the unique architectural design of the space and strict noise limits. The project was also specific in that, in cooperation with the client, its own acoustic requirements were implemented, which significantly reflected the character and planned use of the building. Adjustments to room acoustics had to fit into the overall design of the building.

Awards and recognition The new ČSOB-SHQ building, designed by Marek Chalupa and Štěpán Chalupa, has already received several awards since its opening. Among them are, for example, a nomination for the title in the Building of the Year 2019 competition, the CZ Bim award for the extent of the use of Bim technology in the Building of the Year 2019 competition, or the title Office of the Year in the Financial Institutions category. The building is also the most eco-friendly office building in the Czech Republic.

Conclusion The new ČSOB headquarters in Prague's Radlice is an example of how important it is to pay attention to acoustic parameters when constructing modern administrative buildings. Through careful planning and implementation, it has been possible to create a space that offers not only unique design and technological innovations but also full-fledged acoustic comfort, making it an ideal place for work and business meetings.