Noise Control Strategies for Startup Restaurateurs

If you rise early enough in the day -- well before sunrise, when most folks are still sleeping but when nature awakens and the wheels of commerce begin to turn -- listen carefully. The still morning air is a cacophony.

You might hear the newspaper deliverer, your wall clock, the HVAC system, and perhaps a train or highway traffic in the far distance. It's amazing that people can sleep with that "racket" around them; however, we have developed the ability to shut out certain sounds so that we can rest or concentrate.

That's one of the reasons it's difficult for restaurateurs to be objective about the sound levels and noise in their establishments. (As I will discuss, noise and sound level are different concepts.) We become accustomed to sound and noise, in the same way a teenager becomes used to listening to music at a volume that would drive her parents out of the house. Different customers have different expectations of what sounds and sound levels are acceptable in their environment. The teenager's parents would like a relaxing and soothing household at the end of the day. The daughter seeks more energy and stimulation. In the same vein, you need to match the "acoustic environment" of your business based on your concept, customer base, and venue.

A loud environment also affects the morale and safety of your employees. High levels of noise, over time, can affect a person's hearing. Studies have proven that sound vibrations cause fatigue, headaches and nausea. -- Susan Dickson

That's why among the many factors to take into account when planning your restaurant are noise and sound level. Maintaining acceptable levels can play a part in your success. But, again, understand that an appropriate "sound level" is a function of the ambience you desire. At a football game, the deafening cheers of the crowd add to the excitement and fun of the experience. In a library, a quietly tapping pencil is distracting and annoying; i.e., noisy. Consider the owner of a Mediterranean-style restaurant who enjoys the din of lively conversation and kitchen sounds, as it reminds him of an energetic European bistro. Based on the popularity of his establishment, his patrons, who seek excitement and fun, share his opinion. A white-tablecloth establishment seeking a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere might want to keep the sound level low enough for quiet conversation. Certainly, couples out for a romantic evening or business people conducting matters over dinner do not want to have to shout to be heard.

In regard to sound level, there are two objectives to consider when planning your restaurant. Your first objective is to prevent unnecessary noise or objectionable sound levels in your restaurant. The second objective is to manage the sound that occurs, whether because it is not preventable, or is acceptable within limits.