Saint Peter's Abbey

All situations

Ghent

The problem

For the crypt of the beautiful Saint Peter’s Abbey in Ghent, we were approached with a unique challenge. The round and low vaults, along with the authentic old walls, create a charming ambiance, but also pose a significant acoustic challenge. Visitors and participants in services experienced issues with echo and reverberation, disrupting the serene atmosphere of this historical space. An additional complication was that, due to the protected status of the building, we were not allowed to drill into the walls or ceilings, making it more difficult to find an effective solution.

Our solution

After thorough consultation with the client, we chose the COUSTbases as the ideal solution. These freestanding columns were specifically designed for spaces like the crypt and provided excellent sound absorption. The columns were strategically placed in various corners, always at least 20 cm away from the walls, allowing them to optimally absorb sound from all sides.

Result

The implementation of the COUSTbases has led to an impressive transformation of the crypt. Visitors now experience a calm and harmonious atmosphere, perfect for spiritual activities and services. Due to the success of this solution, the acoustic columns were also frequently moved to other areas within the abbey, such as the cloisters and the chapter hall, leading to a quick reorder. The crypt and other spaces are now not only more aesthetically pleasing but also more functional, making Saint Peter’s Abbey an even more enjoyable place for everyone who visits the historical site.

Used products

COUSTbase

Compact column with maximum absorption