Acoustic analysis and identification of smart solutions for the acoustic insulation of a large historical building

The object of the present paper is the acoustic study of Palazzo Borghese, one of the most important buildings of the neoclassical period present in Florence, which occupies the entire block between Via Ghibellina and Via dei Pandolfini. The Palace has been interested by various architectural interventions occurred in different historical periods. In 1437 a series of grandiose works of unification, enlargement and modernization were undertaken by Michelozzo who created a grand palace with a large open loggia much admired at the time. In 1709 a large, still existing, ballroom was built with a stage for the orchestra. The last major renovation was carried out at the beginning of the nineteenth century by Camillo Borghese: on the first floor, the monumental rooms, above all the main hall and the hall of mirrors, stand out for their magnificence, with a great profusion of gilded stuccoes, marble statues, columns, carved chandeliers, paintings.

Currently some areas of the building are used for receptions, conferences and events, while others are part of a receptive structure, residences and offices. The contiguity of spaces, characterized by very different acoustic requirements and by the presence of three very silent internal courtyards on which these spaces overlook, led to the emergence of numerous acoustic problems whose solution is made particularly delicate by the historical-artistic constraints present on the building. In order to identify the acoustic criticalities, several campaigns of acoustic measurements have been carried out, both during the reception activities and through the use of a sample source.

This investigation allowed to determine the structural weaknesses of the building and to identify the most appropriate technical and smart interventions compatible with the structural constraints and historical-artistic protection of the property.