Restaurants are all about the experience; the service, the lighting, the decor and even the noise all play a factor in customer satisfaction -- which is why the acoustics adjustment system at COMAL, a Mexican restaurant in Berkeley, has been installed.
The system is pricey, coming in at $10,000 - $100,000, but is worth it considering the degree of customizability the high tech contraption offers. Designed by Meyer Sound Laboratories, it is a well-oiled harmony of speakers, subwoofers, microphones and sound-absorbing fabrics allowing sounds to be manipulated via iPad. With a swipe of the hand, different parts of the restaurant can be made to echo sounds louder (say, at the bar) while others can be made quieter (like in a private room).
Obviously a hefty investment to create the ultimate dining experience, COMAL definitely raises the bar as this concept goes beyond anything a simple restaurant theme could achieve. It will be interesting to see different restaurant innovations in the future.
Sound-Silencing Restaurants
The Acoustics Adjustment System at COMAL is iPad Powered
Trend Themes
1. Customizable Acoustic Systems - Restaurants and other venues will continue to invest in high-tech acoustic systems to offer a tailored customer experience.
2. Ipad-controlled Environments - Technology will continue to enable the remote control of various environments, enhancing user control and accessibility.
3. Innovative Hospitality - The hospitality industry will continue to push boundaries with novel concepts that reinvent the traditional restaurant experience.
Industry Implications
1. Restaurants - Restaurants will continue investing in technology to provide unique dining experiences that set them apart from competitors.
2. Audio Engineering - The audio engineering industry will see growth as a result of the demand for unique and customizable acoustic systems in hospitality and other venues.
3. Interior Design - Interior design professionals will seek to incorporate cutting-edge technology into designs that enhance user experience in various environments.