In Box-in-Box (BiB) acoustic isolation projects, acousticians are typically responsible for defining performance targets and leading the overall system design. However, the final outcome depends heavily on early collaboration with solution providers who can help them translate acoustic criteria into buildable systems that respect structural, architectural, and installation constraints. This presentation outlines the key insights and boundary conditions that must be shared at the outset of any BiB design process — from target insertion loss and dominant frequency ranges to slab load capacity, allowable deflections, cavity depth restrictions, etc.
Beyond performance specifications, practical considerations such as detailing the interface conditions between floor, wall, and ceiling elements to minimise flanking transmission while maintaining structural integrity, addressing integration challenges involving windows, doors, and service penetrations, and managing the sequence of on-site installation all critically influence the final result.
Drawing on multiple real-world BiB installations — with a particular focus on a metro-adjacent case study published by the authors involving ground-borne vibration mitigation — system performance will be presented and compared, where design assumptions were fully respected versus cases where late-stage compromises introduced acoustic bridges. In-situ measurements will be presented to illustrate both successful and deficient outcomes, along with corrective actions taken post-installation when design considerations were not addressed in time.
The session concludes with a comparative overview of floor, wall, and ceiling isolation solutions and guidance on selecting the most appropriate configuration for different BiB scenarios, whether driven by load constraints, low-frequency vibration challenges, or architectural integration. The goal is to equip acousticians with the practical decision-making framework needed to ensure that design intent translates into verified acoustic performance — the first time.
Booking is essential as you will need a QR code to access the car park.
CPD Certificates will be available.
To book your place please email: Jody Blacklock, Chair of Eastern Branch, jody.blacklock@createce.co.uk