In the pursuit of superior acoustic comfort, architects and specifiers continually seek solutions that significantly enhance our living spaces. The Ōtautahi Superhome, an exemplary showcase of the Superhome Movement, offers an insightful case study into the acoustic performance integration with SPEEDFLOOR Suspended Concrete Flooring.

Built by Dan Saunders Construction and designed by Bob Burnett Architecture, the Ōtautahi Superhome in Christchurch exemplifies innovation, sustainability, and occupant comfort. It takes advantage of the shared benefits of various systems and materials to ensure efficiency and superior quality. One aspect that aligns in with these project values is the choice of the SPEEDFLOOR Suspended Concrete Flooring for the midfloor.

SPEEDFLOOR Suspended Concrete Flooring is engineered to deliver exceptional structural integrity alongside integrated acoustic performance. This system combines lightweight structural steel sections with a concrete topping, effectively reducing airborne and impact noise — key concerns for multi-level residential buildings. This combination helps achieve acoustic isolation, meeting and often surpassing building code requirements.

Following best practices outlined in industry standards, suspended concrete floors can significantly enhance acoustic performance by integrating dense concrete mass, acoustic isolation layers, and resilient mats. At the Ōtautahi Superhome, these acoustic strategies were seamlessly incorporated, reducing noise transfer between the upper dwelling and spaces below. The result, a tranquil, private environment where residents can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape, free from typical multi-level noise disturbances.

Additionally, the SPEEDFLOOR Suspended Concrete Flooring system supports integrated hydronic underfloor heating, improving thermal comfort without compromising acoustic quality. This feature aligns with the Superhome Movement’s ethos of promoting comfort, health, and sustainable living practices.

With its inherent capability for integrating high-density acoustic insulation and resilient acoustic layers beneath the concrete topping, SPEEDFLOOR Suspended Concrete Flooring can provide noise mitigation. As more people recognise the role of acoustic control in enhancing residential liveability, this project illustrates how SPEEDFLOOR solutions can effectively work alongside different applications to resolve acoustic challenges.

Ultimately, SPEEDFLOOR Suspended Concrete Flooring demonstrates its value not only as a highly efficient structural solution, but also as a complementary product for acoustic performance, empowering a new generation to create living spaces that offer exceptional comfort, tranquillity and resilience.