Villa Paradiso: The Importance of Good Acoustics in Restaurants

The largest location in the Villa Paradiso chain has opened to customers right across from the Munch Museum. The Norwegian restaurant chain was established by Jan Vardøen and Trond Haug in 2004, and is known for Italian food and Neapolitan pizza. Acoustics were considered in the early stages of the design process, eliminating any risk of the notorious Lombard Effect and improving the dining experience.

The Importance of Good Acoustics in Restaurants

With his restaurant experience across Europe, Jan Varden knows precisely what it takes to provide a fantastic dining experience—not only that the food has to be good.

"Having poor acoustics can make for an unpleasant experience for both diners and staff. We know that noise can ruin the mood and conversation around a table. I've had a lot of bad experiences in restaurants where the acoustics were so poor that I just wanted to leave and never return. Acoustics are, therefore, an important element of restaurant design,” emphasised Vardøen.

Vardøen explains, "We know that both furnishings and surfaces can affect the acoustics positively or negatively. Hard surfaces can, for example, amplify the sound even further. Therefore, it is absolutely essential to install the right acoustic solutions that can help to avoid this.”

Rockfon Mono Acoustic Provides a Stylish Surface

The construction of Villa Paradiso in Oslo Bay's Munch Brygge utilised acoustics from the start, for which Rockfon Mono Acoustic was installed.

Vardøen stressed, “I want diners to feel like they're in an authentic establishment, without seeing any evidence of technical aids. I appreciate that Rockfon Mono Acoustic provides a monolithic surface on the ceiling and walls that can be plaster over completely so it looks natural. That's why I've chosen to install Rockfon Mono Acoustic in all my other restaurants too."

Rockfon strives to improve the acoustics and sound quality in all types of locations and buildings every day. Steinar Nygård, Rockfon area manager, believes that a good acoustic environment can benefit the restaurant industry greatly:

“Good acoustics are essential for any restaurant, as they contribute to a more positive dining experience overall. Apart from the stunning smooth surface, Rockfon Mono Acoustic has a high sound absorption level, ensuring a low reverberation time and low noise level in the space. This ensures that guests can actually hear the conversation around the table, rather than being left feeling dissatisfied after their meal."

Vardøen insisted that guests are not intimidated to voice their concerns about an unfavorable acoustic environment. As a result, after the installation of acoustic Panels in all of his restaurants, he can notice a significant change.

“The restaurant has been open for a year now, and I've noticed that we haven't received any complaints about the acoustics. That is the greatest praise,” he added.