One of the newest additions to Vancouver is also its most eye-catching: the stylish sophistication of Drai’s Vancouver.

More than a bar and restaurant, this day-and-night destination spot sports a pool as well as a breathtaking visual environment. Establishing it as a danceclub to attract Vancouver’s discerning nightlife crowd called for pristine sound, a requirement that was entrusted to Criterion Acoustics.

CA performed an environmental noise study and all room acoustics for the complex space, which presented myriad challenges. “Musical intelligibility was a top priority for management in order to attract elite DJ’s and the fans that follow them,” says David Kotch, President of Criterion Acoustics. “A centerpiece of Drai’s Vancouver is its glass atrium. It’s a visually stunning feature that creates a great deal of acoustical reflections. The presence of a swimming pool within the club introduced further complications.

“We used the modeling package in Odeon Room Acoustics Software to run simulations, and then create a design. The space had an extremely long reverb time, which required extensive acoustical absorption to tame. Working closely with Drai Vancouver’s interior designer, we created discreet treatments such as high-quality shades with great acoustical absorption capabilities. The result was a crisp, high-powered listening experience that works hand-in-hand with the venue’s spectacular look.”