Case Study Space Needle – Hush Acoustics USA

Space Needle

Acoustic Excellence for the Space Needle
& Chihuly Garden and Glass Offices

Year Installed:
2023/24

Client:
M. Yamaguchi Architecture

Location:
Seattle, WA

As part of a high-profile renovation near Seattle’s Space Needle, the team at M. Yamaguchi Architecture partnered with Hush Acoustics to provide a sophisticated acoustic solution for the office spaces shared by the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass organizations. Located just steps from one of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks, the project aimed to deliver enhanced acoustic performance while elevating the design of the workplace environment.

Hush was proud to serve as the basis of design for the acoustic treatments on this project.

CHALLENGE

The architectural vision called for sculptural, high-performance acoustic treatments tailored to the unique needs of the space. Several technical and coordination challenges emerged as part of the design and fabrication process:

Large-Scale Custom Fabrication:
The highlight of the installation was a series of dramatic 20-foot diameter ceiling clouds, designed in pie-shaped segments to align with integrated lighting features and achieve a bold visual impact.

Refinement of Design Specifications:
As with many custom architectural projects, refinements were needed during the development phase. Some inconsistencies in panel dimensions prompted close collaboration to confirm specifications
and ensure seamless execution.

Material Optimization:
Early design concepts had not fully accounted for the optimal yield of raw acoustic material sheets. Hush’s team provided input on material efficiency, enabling better alignment between the design intent and fabrication realities.

SOLUTION

Hush worked closely with the architect and project team to deliver tailored acoustic solutions that matched the ambition and complexity of the project:

1. Precision-Cut Acoustic Clouds:
The ceiling installations were produced using high-performance PET panels, precisely cut to accommodate lighting fixtures while achieving the large-scale geometric layout envisioned by the design team.

2. Color and Visual Contrast:
In addition to neutral tones, vibrant orange Bold panels were introduced in breakout and meeting areas, adding visual energy while maintaining acoustic control.

3. Design Coordination and Support:
Hush provided continuous clarification, feedback, and material recommendations throughout the project. This collaboration ensured that acoustic elements met both performance and aesthetic goals.

4. Acoustic Enhancements for Phone Booths:
Enclosed telephone rooms were fitted with acoustically absorptive wall panels to enhance privacy and comfort within compact zones. Hush worked closely with the architect and project team to deliver tailored acoustic solutions that matched the ambition and complexity of the project.

RESULTS

Enhanced Acoustic Comfort:
Reverberation and ambient noise were significantly reduced, improving speech intelligibility and overall comfort in both open and enclosed spaces.

Striking Visual Integration:
The sculptural ceiling clouds became a central design feature, uniting function and form in a high-profile workspace near Seattle’s most recognizable landmark.

Architectural Partnership:
Architect M. Yamaguchi expressed enthusiasm for the results and an interest in working with Hush on future projects.

U.S. Market Visibility:
This project reinforced Hush’s growing presence in the American commercial design market and showcased its capacity to deliver custom, high-caliber acoustic solutions.

Project credits:

Office: M. Yamaguchi Architecture

Photography: Clarity NW – Brandon Larson

Property: MainStreet Property Group

Space Needle

CHALLENGE

SOLUTION

RESULTS

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