New York Towers

HGC Engineering designed comprehensive noise and vibration control solutions for this upscale residential high-rise development in north Toronto consisting of four high-rise towers surrounded by townhouses connected to the towers.

In the design phase of the project, we reviewed drawings and identified potential  sources of noise and vibration throughout the development, particularly from mechanical systems, and then proposed cost-effective remedies.

We recommended appropriate construction methods and materials to control both noise and vibration as set by building code requirements and developer expectations. We also assessed environmental noise from adjacent road traffic to determine their impact on the project and its future occupants. This was especially challenging as the project was situated directly adjacent to Highway 401.

The section passing through Toronto is the busiest highway in North America, and one of the widest and busiest in the world. We assisted developers in integrating suitable noise features into the building envelope for the facades facing the highway. On site sound level monitoring was also performed over a period of a week to obtain actual sound levels due to vehicular traffic noise from the adjacent Highway.

These sound levels were used for verification purposes. Detailed floor plans and building elevations were reviewed to determine appropriate glazing constructions based on the window areas.

Acoustical Engineering Services Included:

• Environmental Noise and Vibration Study
• Building Services Noise and Vibration control (HVAC Systems, Pumps, Compactors, Generators, etc)
• Acoustical Privacy Between Suites
• Noise and Vibration Control of Amenity Spaces (Pool, Fitness Centre, Roof Top Patio, etc)
• Façade and Glazing Specification
• Shop Drawing Review
• Site Inspections
• Occupant Noise Complaint Investigations