audio inclusive recognition for spaces

Oscar Acoustics is proud to be the first to support and align with Sownd Certification, the world’s first evidence-based framework recognising spaces with proven acoustic performance as audio inclusive.

Around 60% of the UK population are noise-sensitive, including people with hearing or visual challenges and neurodivergent individuals. Sownd Certification turns acoustic upgrades into measurable performance, helping clients demonstrate inclusive design while enhancing long-term value and return on investment. Better sound improves comfort, clarity, productivity and connection for everyone who uses a space.

Projects using Oscar Acoustics’ products automatically qualify for Bronze certification, thanks to independent validation through the Sownd Method from Sownd Affects. All testing is carried out by the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research (ISVR) at the University of Southampton.

Get in touch to explore Bronze certification and deliver spaces that are inclusive, comfortable, and high-performing.

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how to get Sownd Certified

Sownd Affects follow a simple framework that aligns with recognised industry standards including BS 8233, BB93 and PAS 6463. Bronze level Sownd Certification includes:

Analysis – Expert consultation to highlight opportunities and quantify ROI potential.
Upgrades – Tailored acoustic treatments to meet certification standards.
Showcase – Project listed in the Sownd directory of audio inclusive spaces. Digital certification assets across your marketing channels will demonstrate your acoustic standards and inclusive design excellence.

Ready to find out more? Download the brochure and book a discovery call with Sownd Affects.

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benefits of Sownd Certification

A trusted evidence-backed framework for human-centred acoustic design.
Help clients meet inclusivity goals while delivering measurable wellbeing benefits.
A visible mark of design excellence that adds commercial and reputational value.
Designed for the 60% who are noise-sensitive but improves user comfort for everyone.
A credible proof that a space meets high standards of audio inclusivity, translating acoustic performance into tangible value.
Simple, future-proof accreditation with minimal admin and a clear business advantage.

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Open plan offices with interior brickwork walls and wooden floors with two people sat either side of a large wooden desk

The world’s first Sownd Certified Building – The Oscar Innovation Centre. ©Antonia Stuart.

Oscar Acoustics’ HQ is the world’s first Sownd Certified building

Our state-of-the-art HQ, the Oscar Innovation Centre, is the world’s first Sownd Certified building, with multiple certified spaces across the site. Aligning with established standards, ISVR Consulting and Southampton University independently assessed our HQ using 3 key measurements:

Reverberation time (how quickly sound decays, controlling echo)
Background sound levels (ambient noise that can overwhelm)
Speech-to-noise ratio (difference between background noise and speech, ensuring clarity)

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the story of Sownd Affects

Sownd Affects was founded in 2024, the result of a decade of research, innovation and development by its founder Marion Marincat. Marion became profoundly deaf at the age of 26 – an experience that revealed how inaccessible the world is for the 60% of people who are noise-sensitive.

Driven by this revelation and seven years of research, he founded Sownd Affects to tackle noise pollution and create audio inclusive spaces for everyone. As a WHO World Hearing Forum facilitator and former founder of a national audiology company, Marion combines lived experience with a decade of expertise in acoustics, health tech and wellbeing. His mission: to enable human connection and belonging, free from noise overwhelm, so communities and businesses can thrive.

Oscar Acoustics has invested in Sownd Affects, following an established model in the built-environment sector. Just as the construction industry funded the development of BREEAM through BRE, Oscar Acoustics support enables this independent framework, setting new benchmarks and raising acoustic standards industry-wide.

what businesses are saying

“The transformation is amazing. My staff previously experienced difficulty in focusing and mental fatigue after a shift when the bar is loud and busy. They can now easily hear and communicate with customers, which I believe will lead to a happier workforce.”

“As a noise sensitive person myself (I have ADHD) I am so proud to be able to deliver these audio inclusive experiences that more of our community will be able to enjoy. It really is an exciting development for our business that I feel privileged to receive.”

Alice Passey • Owner of SJQ

“Upgrading for audio-inclusivity, we have had the best staff retention in 8 years! It’s definitely something I’d apply to all venues & I’d recommend to other people to do it as well.”

Rebecca Stevenson Founder • Signorelli Bakery & Coffee Shops

“Audio-inclusivity was an important upgrade for us, because we want to provide an inclusive environment to our guests and our staff. Come and hear it for yourself!”

Leonidas McKenzie General Manager • Hackney Bridge

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Trust the acoustic specialists at Oscar Acoustics to help you find the right solution for your next project.

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get Sownd Certified