🍽️WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound) · International

Restaurant Acoustic Design to WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound)

Restaurant acoustics must balance conversation intelligibility with ambient atmosphere. Excessive reverberation triggers the Lombard effect, where diners progressively raise their voices, creating an escalating noise spiral that can reach 85+ dBA at peak service.

TL;DR

Under WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound), a restaurant of 300-500 m³ (typical dimensions 15m × 10m × 3.5m) requires an RT60 of ≤ 0.8s at 500-2000 Hz. Background noise must not exceed 50 dBA. WELL v2 Feature 74 applies to restaurants within WELL-certified buildings.

RT60 Target

≤ 0.8s

Noise Limit

50 dBA

STI Minimum

N/A

Frequency Range

500-2000 Hz

Specific Requirements

Parameter	Target	Clause Reference	Notes
Reverberation Time (RT60)	≤ 0.6s	S04	500-2000 Hz, Furnished, unoccupied, <500 m³
Background Noise Limit	≤ 40 NC	S01 Part 2	HVAC + building services, unoccupied
Frequency Range	500-2000 Hz	—	Octave bands for compliance assessment

Step-by-Step Compliance Calculation

1
Identify WELL scope
Confirm the restaurant is within the WELL project boundary and identify applicable Feature 74 requirements.
2
Set RT60 and noise targets
RT60 <= 0.8s for dining areas. Control HVAC and extraction system noise to WELL background noise criteria.
3
Design aesthetic acoustic treatment
Specify treatments that integrate with the restaurant design concept while meeting absorption requirements.
4
Arrange verification
Schedule WELL acoustic performance verification during both empty and simulated peak-service conditions.

Recommended Materials

Surface	Material Category	Min NRC	Coverage %
Ceiling	Acoustic ceiling treatment	0.80	60%
Walls	Absorptive decorative panel	0.65	25%
Booths	Upholstered booth seating	0.60	30%

Browse the full acoustic materials database for absorption coefficients and product specifications.

Common Failure Modes

⚠️Peak service noise exceedance

Restaurants that meet RT60 targets empty still exceed comfortable noise levels during peak service due to patron density.

⚠️Extraction system noise

Kitchen extraction hoods and make-up air systems generate broadband noise that permeates the dining space.

Frequently Asked Questions

What RT60 does WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound) require for a restaurant?

WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound) requires a reverberation time of ≤0.8s at 500-2000 Hz for restaurant spaces. WELL v2 Feature 74 applies to restaurants within WELL-certified buildings. RT60 <= 0.8s with background noise from HVAC not exceeding applicable limits. The WELL Restaurant pilot adds specific dining acoustic quality metrics focused on conversation comfort and noise level control during peak service.

What is the maximum background noise level for a restaurant under WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound)?

WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound) sets a maximum background noise level of 50 dBA for restaurant spaces. This includes noise from HVAC systems, building services, and external intrusion, measured with the room unoccupied. Exceeding this limit degrades speech intelligibility and occupant comfort.

How much acoustic treatment does a restaurant need to comply with WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound)?

A typical restaurant (300-500 m³) requires Acoustic ceiling treatment (NRC ≥0.8) covering 60% of the ceiling as the primary treatment. Additional wall absorption on 2 surface(s) is typically needed. Use the AcousPlan calculator with the pre-loaded dimensions (15m × 10m × 3.5m) to calculate the exact absorption deficit for your room.

Calculate WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound) Compliance for Your Restaurant

Pre-loaded with typical restaurant dimensions (15m × 10m × 3.5m) and an RT60 target of 0.8s per WELL v2 Feature S01 (Sound). Enter your actual dimensions, select materials, and verify compliance instantly.

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