Hattrick of innovation winners at ANC Awards

Mason UK was proud to sponsor the annual ANC Conference and Awards, which took place at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Birmingham on July 3.

Organised by the Association of Noise Consultants, the annual awards promote and recognise excellence among UK acoustic consultants. The shortlisted award entries highlight examples of originality and innovation in acoustic design.

Mason was proud to sponsor the innovation category. The standard of entries was so high this year that there were three winners in this category: Apex Acoustics and Peninsular Acoustics, Hoare Lea, and Philip Dunbavin Acoustics.

“The ANC awards is always a great place to see some of the most original and innovative projects taking place in the UK and to network with others in the field,’’ reflected Adam Fox “It’s good fun to judge the shortlisted projects, but this year it was so difficult to pick between them, we had to have three winners in our category.”

Apex Acoustics and Peninsula Acoustics were recognised for their Open Windows project. Their research-driven approach has shown that one term, Equivalent Area, can be used to define limits for open window performance, both for sound insulation and air flow. This approach provides a common language for acousticians and thermal modellers.

Hoare Lea was recognised for its Life & Mind Building project, which showcased an innovative application of Building Information Modelling (BIM). Their submission demonstrated that acoustics can and should be an integral part of BIM and the judges were impressed with how this can help break down the silos of reporting containing specific information in one element of work. Mason UK built a floating floor as part of this project. Hoare Lea also won recognition for its work on the Cambridge House project.

PDA won recognition for its Hambleton Crematorium project, which was awarded for its design of a new product that has market value for use elsewhere along with the use of innovative materials. For this project, the consultants were required to work with the subcontractor to design and develop a sustainable timber-based slatted product which met the aesthetic requirements of the client while also providing a cost saving.

“Reading about projects like these is always a stimulus to further innovative work in our field,” explained Adam. “We’re already looking forward to coming back again next year.’’

You can read more about the winning projects here: https://www.association-of-noise-consultants.co.uk/awards-2024/