Case Study: Dartmouth Indoor Pool
Excessive echo is one of the most common acoustic problems in large, hard-surfaced environments. From swimming pools to open-plan offices, poor acoustics can make spaces uncomfortable, noisy, and difficult to use for both staff and visitors.
In this article, we look at a real-world project where Pure-Kustik acoustic panels were used to dramatically improve sound quality—and what you can learn from it.
Why Do Large Spaces Have Echo Problems?
Spaces like swimming pools, halls, and commercial buildings often suffer from:
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Hard reflective surfaces (tiles, concrete, glass)
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High ceilings
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Large open volumes
These factors cause sound to bounce repeatedly, creating long reverberation times and poor clarity.
The Challenge
An indoor swimming pool operated by Dartmouth Pool Trust experienced significant acoustic issues. After a Zoom consultation to discuss concerns and project details, we discovered the key problems:
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Excessive reverberation (~4.5 seconds)
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Poor speech intelligibility causing safety concern
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Uncomfortable noise levels for users and staff
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Time Constraint - Quick turnaround required to avoid loss business
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Moisture, Chorine & Humidity resistance essential
The Solution
To solve this, over 126m² of Pure-Kustik acoustic panels were installed throughout the space.
The process involved precisely levelling and evenly spacing 44 Pure-Kustik panels, with some panels custom-cut to fit around existing pipes and HVAC systems.
- A free sample and quotation was supplied to confirm suitability, proving cost effective and better value for money compared to alternative suppliers.
- Supervised on-site by a Soprema UK representative
- Panels installed according to Soprema UK guidelines
- 1-year warranty provided, covering structural or mechanical issues.
These panels were chosen because they:
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Provide Class A sound absorption
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Moisture & Mould resistant for use in humid environment
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Chemically stable, unaffected by chlorine or other airborne substances
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Sustainable, made with over 60% recycled materials and fully recyclable
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Smooth finish without stretched fabric layer= no peeling or fraying.
“The Pure-Kustik acoustic panels are suitable to be used in swimming pool environments. The panels do not absorb moisture, do not support mould or micro-organism growth, and are not reactive to chlorine or other airborne substances under similar conditions.” – Soprema UK
The Results
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Reverberation reduced: 4.5s → 1.8s
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Dramatically improved speech clarity
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More comfortable environment for all users
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Completed in just 2 days with minimal disruption.
"Even during installation, the acoustic difference was noticeable." – Dartmouth Pool Trust
Why Acoustic Panels Work
Acoustic panels like Pure-Kustik don’t block sound—they absorb it.
This reduces:
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Echo
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Reverberation
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Noise build-up
The result is a space that sounds quieter, clearer, and more controlled.
By improving sound absorption inside buildings, acoustic panels play a key role in:
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Improving wellbeing
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Increasing productivity
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Enhancing user experience
Where Can You Use Acoustic Panels?
Pure-Kustik panels are suitable for:
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Offices and meeting rooms
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Restaurants and cafés
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Schools and lecture halls
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Homes and media rooms
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Leisure facilities (like swimming pools)
Key Takeaways
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Acoustic panels can dramatically reduce echo
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Real-world results with measured improvements
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Installation is quick and flexible
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Suitable for both commercial and residential spaces
Final Thoughts
If your space suffers from echo or poor sound quality, acoustic panels offer a simple and effective solution.
The Dartmouth Pool case study shows just how powerful the right acoustic treatment can be — even in the most challenging environments.
Shop the Pure-Kustik Range
Browse our range of Pure-Kustik acoustic panels and accessories designed to reduce echo and improve sound clarity.
White Acoustic Panel
Clean, Minimalistic finish
Black Acoustic Panel
Modern, High Performance, Aesthetic
Grey Acoustic Panel
Perfect for offices & commercial spaces
White Ceiling Circle
Stylish suspended acoustic solution
Grey Ceiling Circle
Ideal for open spaces & feature ceilings
Black Ceiling Circle
Modern, Easy to Clean, Suspended
Suspension Kit
Easy installation for ceiling panels
Do You Have a Reverberation Issue?
Speak to our team and find the right acoustic solution for your space.
📞 01928 571 856
📧 hello@soundinsulationstore.co.uk
Acoustic Absorption FAQs – Echo & Reverberation Control
What causes echo in large buildings like swimming pools or halls?
Echo is caused by hard reflective surfaces such as glass, concrete, tiles, and metal combined with large open spaces and high ceilings. These conditions allow sound waves to reflect repeatedly, increasing reverberation time.
What is reverberation time?
Reverberation time is how long sound continues to bounce around a room after the original sound has stopped. High reverberation (e.g. 4+ seconds) makes speech unclear and environments uncomfortable.
How do acoustic panels reduce echo?
Acoustic panels absorb sound energy rather than reflecting it. This reduces sound reflections, lowers reverberation time, and improves speech clarity within a space.
What problems does poor acoustics cause?
Poor acoustics can lead to unclear speech, increased noise levels, reduced comfort, and in some environments such as leisure facilities, potential safety concerns due to poor communication.
What made the Dartmouth Pool project challenging?
The project required moisture-resistant acoustic treatment suitable for a high humidity, chlorine-rich environment, while also reducing a very high reverberation time of approximately 4.5 seconds.
What is acoustic absorption?
Acoustic absorption is the process of reducing sound energy within a space using materials that absorb sound waves instead of reflecting them. This improves clarity and reduces echo.
Where can acoustic panels be used?
Acoustic panels are suitable for offices, schools, restaurants, swimming pools, leisure centres, homes, and any large open space where echo and reverberation are an issue.
Do acoustic panels block sound?
No. Acoustic panels do not block sound between rooms. Instead, they absorb sound within a space to improve internal acoustics and reduce echo.
What is the benefit of reducing reverberation time?
Reducing reverberation improves speech clarity, reduces noise fatigue, and creates a more comfortable and usable environment for occupants.
