OVERVIEW
Delivering acoustic performance within a high-rise Passivhaus scheme presents a unique set of constraints, particularly where multiple uses are combined within a single development.
At 2 Trafalgar Way, acoustic floor systems needed to perform across residential, commercial and high-activity spaces while
working within restricted floor zones.
The scheme comprises three towers of 28, 36 and 46 storeys, incorporating student accommodation, residential apartments, gym and yoga facilities, retail and office space. Each area introduced different acoustic and structural requirements, alongside limitations on weight and available floor depth.
Working with main contractor Midgard, CMS Danskin Acoustics developed a combination of raised access and non-accessible floor build-ups to address these constraints. The systems were designed to deliver acoustic performance while accommodating service access, shallow floor zones and programme demands.
The result was a coordinated acoustic flooring strategy applied across the full development, supporting both performance targets and efficient delivery.
THE CHALLENGE
The development required a flexible acoustic flooring solution capable of performing across multiple use types within a large-scale Passivhaus high-rise.
Primary risks included:
Transmission of impact and airborne noise across mixed-use spaces
Vibration from gym and fitness areas affecting adjacent zones
Restricted floor depths in some areas (as low as 100mm)
Balancing acoustic performance with weight and structural constraints
A solution was needed that could:
Deliver consistent acoustic performance across varied applications
Accommodate shallow floor zones without compromising performance
Provide access to services where required Integrate efficiently within a high-rise construction programme
THE SOLUTION
CMS Danskin Acoustics developed a multi-system acoustic flooring strategy to address the varying requirements across the development.
The gym and activity areas required an enhanced build-up to manage impact and vibration. This incorporated Smartspan, a timber cradle and batten system, levelling layer and plywood deck, with Regufoam and isolation pads.
This coordinated approach allowed CMS Danskin Acoustics to deliver tailored acoustic performance across each space while maintaining consistency across the development.
THE RESULT
The completed acoustic flooring systems delivered effective noise and vibration control across residential, commercial and high-activity areas within the development.
The raised access system provided both acoustic separation and service accessibility, while non-access floor build-ups enabled efficient installation in areas with limited floor depth.
In gym and activity zones, the enhanced build-up successfully mitigated vibration and impact noise generated by equipment and occupant use.
Despite challenging constraints, including shallow floor zones and strict performance requirements, the system was implemented across all areas of the scheme, supporting delivery of a high-performance Passivhaus development.
Technical Excellence.
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