Acentech Consults on Harvard Square's Newest Live Music Venue

	The Sinclair in Cambridge's Harvard Square. Photo: The Sinclair.

Acentech Inc., a multi-disciplinary acoustics, audiovisual systems design, and vibration consulting firm, announces that it has completed consulting work for The Sinclair, the newest live music venue in Cambridge's Harvard Square. Located at 52 Church St. and backed by The Bowery Presents, The Sinclair features a full-scale concert stage with audience seating for 525, an adjacent restaurant, and three bars dispersed throughout the space.

Acentech provided sound isolation, room acoustics, and mechanical noise control consulting services for the venue, which includes a main level and balcony with an adjoining lobby and bar area. Sound isolation was the main challenge with this project, as the venue is located inside a commercial building with potentially noise-sensitive office and restaurant tenants below, adjacent to, and above.

Acentech's initial work involved the construction of sound-isolating ceiling and wall elements for a late-night sound isolation test, with rented high-powered loudspeakers and amplifiers similar to what The Sinclair would eventually install. This allowed the building owners to experience simulated rock concert conditions and determine whether the sound isolation was sufficient to proceed with the project. Acentech recommended the design and installation of sound-isolating ceiling and wall constructions, including multiple layers of gypsum board on spring/neoprene isolation hangers, new double wall constructions, and plenty of insulation. The result was an acoustically pleasing, yet isolated venue that doesn't disturb the neighbors.

"Acentech's acoustical advice helped us turn our vision of a state-of-the-art venue for up-and-coming artists into a reality," said Josh Bhatti of The Bowery Presents. "At the same time, Acentech's consultants helped us maintain a harmonious relationship with our neighbors by seamlessly integrating a music venue into an actively used commercial and office space. We are excited to bring live music performances to Harvard Square for many years to come."

The Sinclair is backed by The Bowery Presents, a New York-based independent promotion company. Consulting chef Michael Schlow heads the 175-seat restaurant. Acentech worked closely with design firms, Tribeca Builders and Studio Tyak, both of Boston. The project was completed in early 2013, and has been featured in various media outlets including The Boston Globe, Boston Magazine, and NECN's TV Diner.