Evaluating the effectiveness of architectural acoustic design strategies in reducing airport noise transmission into hotels: A simulation-based study

Airport noise represents a significant environmental health concern, particularly for adjacent hospitality establishments that must provide restful accommodations to travelers. This study evaluates the effectiveness of architectural acoustic design strategies in reducing airport noise transmission into hotels through simulation-based analysis. Using computer simulation software including SoundPLAN, INSUL, and ODEON, this research investigates noise levels at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, and three nearby hotels to determine the extent to which current building configurations mitigate noise intrusion. The study addresses three primary objectives: determining environmental noise levels that cause annoyance and sleep disturbance, identifying architectural acoustic strategies that reduce noise transmission, and quantifying the effectiveness of these strategies through simulation. Results indicate that existing hotel facades with traditional wall and window assemblies demonstrate inadequate sound transmission loss, particularly at low frequencies characteristic of aircraft noise. The simulation analysis reveals that strategic improvements in window assemblies alone can achieve a 24% increase in transmission loss, reducing indoor sound levels from 54 to 41 dB. Combined improvements in wall assemblies, facade design incorporating closed balconies, strategic room zoning, and enhanced floor and ceiling configurations with higher Impact Insulation Class ratings can further reduce indoor noise levels to 27 dB, meeting World Health Organization guidelines for sleep quality. These findings provide evidence-based guidance for architects and developers designing hotels in airport-adjacent locations.