Our Journey

Aercoustics Through the Decades: Pioneering Acoustic Solutions

Over the past several decades, Aercoustics has been at the forefront of acoustic innovation, delivering groundbreaking solutions to complex challenges. Here is a look at some of the project milestones that define our journey:

1974 – 1983: Aercoustics Origin Story

Aercoustics 50

The name “Aercoustics” reflects our origins in addressing aircraft propeller noise, where our expertise in aerodynamic noise first took shape. From the very beginning, we dedicated ourselves to understanding and mitigating the complexities of sound and airflow, laying the foundation for the cutting-edge acoustic solutions we provide today. This legacy is embedded in our name, highlighting our deep roots in acoustics and aerodynamics.

1984 – 1993: Breaking New Ground

CBC Toronto

CBC Toronto: In 1993, the CBC uncovered its state-of-the-art $350 million, 13-storey broadcasting facility in downtown Toronto. This innovative building was among the first of its kind to vertically stack television and radio studios within a high-rise urban setting. It was designed to consolidate the CBC’s broadcast capabilities into one central hub, reflecting a new standard for media infrastructure.

Ottawa Health Sciences Centre

Ottawa Health Sciences Centre: In 1992, complaints arose about noise from the co-generation facility at the Ottawa Health Sciences Centre. Leveraging Outdoor Active Noise Cancellation technology, which was previously unsuccessful for outdoor noise mitigation, Aercoustics engineered and installed one of the first successful applications of this technique. By generating a mirror image of the offending noise, we achieved a solution that was not only energy-efficient but also cost-effective—at less than one-fifth the cost of traditional silencer baffles. This innovative project earned us the prestigious “Canadian Consulting Engineering Award of Excellence.”

1994 – 2003: Defining Industry Standards

TTC Noise and Vibration Expertise

TTC Noise and Vibration Expertise: Since the 1990s, our collaboration with the TTC has been vital. We started by measuring noise and vibration along the entire route, pinpointing key area and issues. Over the past three decades, we’ve assisted in resolving complaints, evaluated noise and vibration levels in neighborhoods served by subways and streetcars, and verified that maintenance activities met intended noise improvements. Our work includes assessing noise and vibration impacts from various TTC system improvements, such as new vehicles and track components. We’ve also tested innovations like wheel dampers, which have the potential to reduce wheel squeal noise in neighbourhoods with curved track. We are proud of our enduring partnership with the TTC, and we’re excited about continuing to make a positive impact in the years ahead.

Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre

Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre: Located in Medicine Hat, Alberta, this cultural hub featuring a gallery, museum, studio theatre, and 700-seat auditorium was built for Alberta’s centennial celebrations. The main theatre’s custom orchestra shell and adjustable acoustic banners create a versatile and intimate sound experience. Aercoustics’ work earned the prestigious Schreyer Award, Canada’s highest engineering distinction, for achieving acoustics that balance power and clarity.

2004 – 2013: Innovating for Excellence

Koerner Hall

Koerner Hall: In 2002 the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto underwent major upgrades in 2002 to expand its facilities, including a world-class 1,140-seat concert hall. To address subway noise beneath the property, Aercoustics designed innovative noise and vibration control solutions, including isolating the building on rubber pads. and creating quiet, interconnected spaces. The upgraded studios and concert hall opened in 2008 and 2009, achieving a perfectly silent environment for music education and performance.

Aga Khan Museum

Aga Khan Museum: This iconic museum and cultural centre near one of Canada’s busiest highways presented unique acoustic challenges. Collaborating with the design team, we ensured that the recital hall, exhibition spaces, and theatre offered exceptional acoustics for diverse uses, while complementing the striking architecture.

Milton Quarry Extension

Milton Quarry Extension: In one of our most complex projects, we developed a detailed noise study for the Milton Quarry Extension, addressing concerns from neighboring sensitive receptors and regulatory bodies. Using a comprehensive computer model, we identified noise impacts and crafted site-specific mitigation measures. Our work passed rigorous peer reviews and played a pivotal role in securing project approval from the Ontario Municipal Board.

2014 – 2024: Leading the Future

SickKids Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning

SickKids Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning: At this cutting-edge facility, we addressed strict vibration criteria for sensitive equipment and collaborated on acoustic solutions for educational spaces, including a 250-seat auditorium above a loading dock. By combining innovative isolation techniques with precise site measurements, we delivered a seamless integration of functionality and acoustic excellence.

Thunder Bay Consolidated Courthouse

Thunder Bay Consolidated Courthouse: This state-of-the-art facility recognized with the “Award for Excellence” features 15 barrier-free courtrooms and a domed Aboriginal Conference Settlement Suite. Aercoustics tackled challenges like focusing and whispering effects in the domed room by integrating custom-designed acoustic treatments. The result is a space that balances cultural significance with acoustic clarity.

Tom Patterson Theatre

Tom Patterson Theatre: The Stratford Festival’s Tom Patterson Theatre is a masterpiece of modern design and acoustic innovation. Featuring a 600-seat thrust theatre, we used advanced modeling tools to optimize acoustics for unamplified spoken word and live performances. The result is a technically sophisticated space where audiences connect deeply with the arts.

Finch West LRT

Finch West LRT: As part of Toronto’s transit expansion, we conducted extensive vibration and noise testing for the Finch West LRT project. From vehicle vibration characterization to real-time construction monitoring, our comprehensive approach has minimized environmental impact while ensuring the project’s success. Managing over 40 simultaneous monitoring positions during peak construction, we set a new benchmark for urban transit development.