At Renzo Tonin & Associates, we are proud to have contributed to the Sydney Metro project, specifically focusing on the acoustical engineering of the new stations.
Recently, our own Director Conrad Weber and Senior Engineer Hilary Pearce presented at an Australian Acoustical Society (AAS) technical talk, sharing insights into the complexities and innovative solutions we implemented during the project.
Our Roles in the Integrated Station Developments and Netword
As part of the Integrated Station Development team, we were responsible for the acoustical design of the station boxes at Waterloo Station (engaged by John Holland Group) and Gadigal Station (engaged by CPB), as well as the design and construction aspects of the broader network for CPB and UGL.
Our missions encompassed:
Minimising External Noise Emissions: Ensuring the stations harmoniously integrate with surrounding neighbourhoods.
Reverberant Noise Control: Creating pleasant environments which enable clear sound in public spaces.
Reducing Internal Mechanical Noise: Enhancing passenger comfort by mitigating noise from mechanical systems.
Minimising vibrations impacts to the nearby Cross
City Road Tunnels during construction.
Designing the track forms to minimise operational noise
and vibration impacts within the integrated station developments.
Interesting Facts About the Stations
Waterloo Station
Design Meets Functionality: The decorative ceiling boxes in the ground-level concourse aren't just visually appealing; they also enhance acoustics by reducing the need for additional sound-absorbing materials.
Artistic Integration: Features a captivating photograph of Koori dancer Roscoe Mundine, part of Nicole Monks' "Footprints on Gadigal Nura"—a testament to cultural celebration within functional spaces.
Gadigal Station
Honouring Heritage: Formerly known as Pitt Street Station during planning, it was aptly renamed Gadigal Station to honor the traditional custodians of the land.
Engineering Marvel: Constructed amidst a complex network of underground infrastructure, requiring innovative acoustic
solutions to meet stringent structural and sound requirements.
Overcoming Challenges with Innovation
1. Blending Acoustics with Aesthetics
Challenge: How do we maintain the architectural vision while achieving acoustic excellence?
Solution: By incorporating the unique geometries of decorative ceilings and structural elements into our acoustic models, we reduced the need for additional materials. This approach preserved the stations' visual appeal and met our sound quality targets.
2. Integrating Art Seamlessly
Challenge: The success of the artwork was key to the station design for Waterloo Station in particular.
Solution: Collaboration was key. We worked closely with the architects John McAslan and Partners to fine-tune the placement and specifications of acoustic treatments, allowing the art to shine while maintaining compliant sound environments.
3. Smart Noise Budgeting
Challenge: Preventing cumulative noise from multiple equipment sources operated by different contractors.
Solution: We shifted our strategy to focus on specific receiver locations rather than just noise sources. By reallocating noise budgets where certain equipment (like Tunnel Ventilation Systems or High Voltage equipment) wasn't present, we increased allowances for other necessary equipment. This not only optimized resources but also eliminated unnecessary acoustic treatments.
4. Navigating Structural Constraints
Challenge: Building effective acoustic solutions within tight spatial confines due to existing underground structures.
Solution: We employed advanced modeling and real-time monitoring during construction. Innovative adjustments, such as modifying floating slab track systems, allowed us to meet our acoustic goals without impinging on structural integrity.
5. Managing Proprietary Equipment Limitations
Challenge: Dealing with equipment like escalators, where noise reduction options are limited.
Solution: Trusting in expert advice was crucial. The escalator technicians informed us that newly installed escalators would quiet down after a run-in period. This insight prevented unnecessary interventions and ensured passenger comfort in the long run (even if it did require additional testing).
6. Alternative Floating Slab Track Systems
Challenge: Achieving the required mass of FST units in reduced track depth areas
Solution: Working with the CPB/UGL track design team to incorporate modified FST units in the station box area
Our Goals
Enhanced Commuter Experience: By fine-tuning reverberation treatments and reducing mechanical noise, we created environments where the ambiance is welcoming.
Cultural Integration: Seamlessly blending significant artworks into the stations enriched daily commutes with cultural significance, honouring the heritage of the Gadigal people.
Resource Optimisation: Strategic noise budget reallocation led to cost savings and reduced the need for excessive acoustic treatments, demonstrating efficiency and sustainability.
Collaborative Success: Unified efforts among acousticians, architects, builders, and artists resulted in stations that are both functionally efficient and aesthetically captivating.
Reflecting on Our Journey
Integrated development projects like Waterloo and Gadigal stations are intricate puzzles.
The station box truly became the "meat in the sandwich," balancing the demands of various stakeholders and technical requirements. Clear communication, swift information exchange, and a "best-for-project" mindset were essential in overcoming obstacles.
We are particularly proud of how the cultural elements within the stations were respected. Working around Nicole Monks' "Footprints on Gadigal Nura" was both a design challenge and an honour, allowing us to contribute to spaces that acknowledge and celebrate Indigenous heritage.
Looking Ahead
Seeing the stations come to life and watching passengers enjoy these spaces is incredibly rewarding. It's a reminder of why we do what we do—to make environments that people move through every day more enjoyable, comfortable, and inspiring.
At Renzo Tonin & Associates, we're committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in acoustic design. We look forward to future challenges and the opportunity to create spaces that sound—and feel—extraordinary.
If you'd like to learn more about our projects or discuss how we can assist with your acoustic needs, contact us here
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