Beyond Audio: Soundproofing Insights from Clarke Saunders Acoustics & Ideaworks
In this edition, we highlight a powerful collaboration between two LPF members at the forefront of acoustic and technology innovation: Clarke Saunders Acoustics and Ideaworks.
In a recent article, Ed Clarke of Clarke Saunders Acoustics shares his expert insights into the crucial yet often overlooked role of soundproofing in luxury residential design. Joined by Kevin Andrews of Ideaworks, the discussion goes far beyond home audio - touching on architectural limitations, building regulations, and the importance of early-stage acoustic planning to ensure a seamless, high-spec living experience.
From listed building retrofits to cutting-edge home cinemas, this feature reminds us that sound is just as vital to luxury as sight and space. As expectations rise among UHNW clients for perfectly quiet, acoustically balanced environments, expertise like this becomes essential.
At Ideaworks, they never stand still. They continually explore new ways to enrich their clients’ experiences and transform their spaces. Through carefully chosen partners, they enable new possibilities for their clients and ensure that every project benefits from complementary expertise, helping them create the seamless, elevated living experience their clients expect.
Partnering with Experts in Soundproofing Solutions
One of those partners is acoustic consultant Ed Clarke, whose knowledge enables Ideaworks to go beyond audio. From managing environmental noise to shaping the behaviour of different spaces, Ed helps them ensure that homes and private spaces are not only legally compliant but also discreet, refined, and consistently comfortable.
With over 35 years of experience in acoustics, noise, and vibration, Ed is a former Chair of the Association of Noise Consultants, contributor to the Institute of Acoustics, and trusted advisor on countless complex projects. His approach combines technical integrity with collaboration, bringing assurance to every stage of a project.
In a recent interview conducted by LPF member Ideaworks, Ed Clarke, Director of Clarke Saunders Acoustics, shares valuable insights into the real-world challenges and often-overlooked role of soundproofing in prime residential spaces. The discussion, led by Kevin Andrews, Technology Director at Ideaworks, is a compelling exchange between two experts shaping the unseen layers of luxury living.
Together, these two LPF members explore how acoustic performance and integrated technology go hand-in-hand—and why early-stage collaboration is critical for successful project delivery.
What Clients Should Know About Noise Management
We asked Ed how his expertise helps us design environments that feel refined, private, and effortless – and what clients should really know about acoustics.
IW: Can you really make a room completely “soundproof” – could I enjoy my music collection at full volume, yet the world outside remains blissfully unaware?
EC: Honestly, I don’t like that word. It suggests no sound ever escapes, which isn’t realistic. What we really aim for is the right level of sound control for the space: enough that noise is neither intrusive nor distracting, and that privacy is preserved.
IW: How do you measure sound?
EC: Sound is measured in units called decibels. This is caused by pressure fluctuations in air. At its most technical, we measure it in Pascals. But the range we deal with is enormous – from the quietest sound we can hear at 0.00002Pa, to the threshold of pain at around 20Pa – a million times greater. That’s where decibels come in: they make the numbers manageable, and the maths more fun! 0dB is the faintest sound we can hear, while 120dB is painfully loud.
IW: If a room is very quiet, does that mean the acoustics are excellent?
EC: Not necessarily. Acoustics isn’t just about how a room sounds in one moment – it’s about how it behaves in all scenarios. A quiet space today doesn’t mean you won’t hear the neighbour’s toddler on a drum kit tomorrow. True acoustic quality is about consistent performance, whatever’s happening around you. When it’s done right, it should feel effortless – unremarkable in the best possible way.
IW: Can thick carpets and heavy curtains solve acoustic problems?
EC: They help – but only with part of the picture. Soft finishes reduce echo inside a room, but they won’t stop sound from passing through walls or floors. For real discretion and privacy, we need to look at construction: junctions, isolation layers, and detailing hidden beneath the finishes. That’s where the real difference is made.
IW: If my project meets Building Regulations, isn’t that enough?
EC: Meeting regulations is like using a newspaper as an umbrella – functional, but far from luxurious. Our clients expect more, and rightly so. Acoustic design should deliver ease, privacy, and sophistication – the kind of quiet luxury that lets you sleep peacefully, even when life is happening all around you.
IW: What’s the best point in a project to consider acoustics?
EC: Architects, engineers, and acousticians collaborate from the start to create true acoustic quality. That’s how we create environments where comfort and refinement feel effortless. Waiting until the layout is finalised, it’s almost always too late. Retrofitting acoustics at the end is costly, invasive, and rarely delivers the best results.
IW: Finally, what’s the difference between sound insulation and sound absorption?
EC: Think of sound like water. To reduce an echo in a room, you use something absorptive, such as a sponge. However, if you want to prevent water from leaking into the next room, you need something watertight. Sound absorption controls how echoey a room feels; sound insulation controls how much sound passes between rooms. Both matter – but they do very different jobs.
It’s clear from their conversation that acoustics isn’t just about controlling noise, it’s about shaping environments where our clients can live, relax, and entertain with ease and assurance. Whether it’s managing environmental sound, controlling noise transfer, or tailoring spaces for entertainment, acoustics underpins the experience of elevated living.
Why Soundproofing Solutions Matter to You
Acoustics is often overlooked until it becomes a problem, but it plays a crucial role in creating spaces that feel elegant, restful, and truly private. With Ed Clarke’s expertise, Ideaworks now goes beyond delivering audio to deliver true sound control: managing environmental noise, shaping how spaces perform, and ensuring privacy and discretion. This complementary expertise strengthens their offering and is part of how they help their clients achieve truly elevated living.
Whether you’re planning a luxury residence, a private entertainment space, or a multi-dwelling project, now is the time to think about acoustics – not later.
Get in touch with their team to learn how their new supplementary services can elevate your next project: sales@ideaworks.co.uk
Kevin Andrews
Kevin founded Ideaworks (formerly Sound Ideas) in 1984 with a vision to redefine the way technology is experienced in interior spaces. Over four decades later, he continues to lead the company’s creative direction, shaping immersive environments in luxury homes, yachts, and lifestyle spaces through the seamless integration of technology.
“True luxury is multisensory and sound plays a central role in how we experience space. The insights from Ed and Kevin highlight the meticulous attention to detail required to deliver refined, high-performance interiors. We’re proud to feature members who lead with such depth of expertise and collaboration.”
www.clarkesaunders.com
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