Oscar Acoustics explores Sownd Certification, a world-first framework that enables architects to specify, evidence and communicate inclusive acoustic performance.

Oscar Elite in Ottolenghi’s ROVI restaurant (photo: Adam Luszniak).

In an era of human-centred design, acoustics have emerged as a defining marker of architectural distinction. No longer a background technical consideration, acoustic comfort plays a critical role in how people experience buildings, shaping interaction, concentration, dwell time, and ultimately, business outcomes.

The cost of getting it wrong is significant. Poor acoustics are estimated to cost UK businesses more than £40 billion annually through lost productivity, increased staff turnover, and customer dissatisfaction. In workplaces, hospitality, and education settings, noise can quietly undermine both user experience and commercial value. As expectations around wellbeing, inclusivity, and performance continue to rise, acoustic design is increasingly recognised not just as a social responsibility, but as a commercial advantage.

SonaSpray K-13 Special and fc in in Oscar Acoustics’ HQ – set to be the world’s first Sownd Certified building (photo: Antonia Stuart).

Designing for acoustic inclusivity
Around 30 per cent of the UK population identifies as noise-sensitive. This group includes people with hearing or visual challenges, neurodiverse conditions, such as autism and ADHD, and many others who experience sensory overload in poorly designed environments. For these users, acoustics can be the difference between a space that feels welcoming and one that excludes.

Sownd Certification from Sownd Affects has been developed to address this challenge. It provides a simple, evidence-based framework for recognising buildings with proven acoustic performance, identifying them as audio-inclusive. Crucially, while the certification supports noise-sensitive users, the benefits of optimised acoustics extend far beyond this group. Improved acoustic conditions enhance comfort, connection, focus, and enjoyment for everyone who uses a space.

By translating acoustic performance into a visible, recognised standard, Sownd Certification turns an often abstract design consideration into something tangible and meaningful for clients.

SonaSpray fcx throughout HIDE restaurant (photo: Andrew Meredith).

From wellbeing to measurable value
One of the key strengths of Sownd Certification is its ability to connect acoustic quality with measurable return on investment. Research consistently links good acoustics with improved productivity, reduced absenteeism, higher employee retention, and better customer experiences. In commercial environments, this translates directly into financial performance.

For architects, this provides a powerful shift in narrative. Acoustic design is no longer simply about meeting minimum standards or avoiding complaints; it becomes a strategic tool that supports business outcomes, strengthens design proposals, and aligns with broader ESG, wellbeing, and inclusivity objectives.

A Bronze certification you can specify today
Sownd Certification has been designed to integrate seamlessly into existing workflows. Its foundational Bronze level is awarded at the ‘Physics’ stage of the framework and aligns with established standards including BS 8233, BB93, and HTM 08-01. Rather than adding complexity, it provides early, credible recognition of inclusive acoustic performance.

Importantly, Oscar Acoustics’ products, including Oscar Elite acoustic plaster and SonaSpray acoustic sprays, automatically qualify for Bronze Sownd Certification once installed. This makes specification straightforward, allowing architects to embed certified acoustic performance into projects without additional administration or design compromise.

Bronze recognition goes beyond a badge. It signals leadership in inclusive design, demonstrates commitment to occupant wellbeing, and helps future-proof buildings as expectations around accessibility and performance continue to evolve.

SonaSpray Eco+ in Downstairs at dMFK (photo: Ed Reeve).

Why Sownd Certification matters to architects
In an increasingly competitive market, Sownd Certification helps projects stand out with clients prioritising wellbeing, accessibility, and inclusive design. It functions as both a design benchmark and a communication tool, enabling architects to elevate conversations around sound from technical compliance to experiential quality.

Certification assets for websites, building signage, and project documentation allow acoustic performance to be clearly communicated and valued. Across workplace, hospitality, and education briefs, this provides a tangible point of differentiation. One that clients can understand and occupants can feel.

SonaSpray K-13 Special in Oscar Acoustics’ HQ – set to be the world’s first Sownd Certified building (photo: Antonia Stuart).

Oscar Acoustics: performance with purpose
Oscar Acoustics has long championed acoustic solutions that deliver performance without compromising architectural intent. Oscar Elite offers plaster-smooth sound absorption for high-end interiors, while SonaSpray acoustic sprays provide design flexibility across complex geometries, available in a wide range of colours and textures.

Both finishes exceed the latest fire safety requirements under Approved Document B, achieving Class 0 (BS476) and B-s1,d0 ratings, with minimal smoke production and no flaming droplets.

The SonaSpray range also supports leading environmental and wellbeing standards, including WELL, SKA, M1, GREENGUARD Gold, and Cradle-to-Cradle. Together, these finishes enhance acoustic comfort while supporting broader sustainability, safety, and health-focused project targets.

A design opportunity, not a constraint
In a design culture increasingly defined by inclusivity and holistic performance, acoustic design is no longer a nice to have. It is a fundamental component of successful architecture.

Sownd Certification, combined with Oscar Acoustics’ products, offers architects a simple, credible way to embed acoustic excellence into their projects, strengthening client confidence, improving occupant experience, and delivering measurable value. In doing so, it helps set a new benchmark for spaces that work better for everyone.

Contact Details
To find out more about Sownd Certification, call 01474 854902, email, or visit the Oscar Acoustics website.