All Quiet Spaces Project programs are grounded in peer-reviewed research from acoustics, neuroscience, environmental psychology, and public health. Below are key studies that inform our methodology and recommendations.
Neuroscience & Cognition
Silence-induced brain cell development in adult mice
This groundbreaking study found that two hours of daily silence promoted cell development in the hippocampus, the brain region associated with memory formation. The findings suggest silence may support neurogenesis and cognitive function in ways distinct from simple noise reduction.
The impact of environmental noise on cognitive performance
Comprehensive review demonstrating that chronic noise exposure impairs reading comprehension, memory, and sustained attention, particularly in children. Effects persist even after controlling for socioeconomic variables, suggesting direct causal relationships.
Default mode network and silence
Examination of brain activity during silence reveals enhanced default mode network function, associated with self-reflection, memory consolidation, and creativity. Findings support the unique restorative properties of quiet environments.
Health & Wellbeing
Cardiovascular effects of environmental noise
Meta-analysis establishing clear links between chronic noise exposure and increased risk of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. Even nighttime noise below conscious awareness threshold produces measurable physiological stress responses.
Sleep quality and acoustic environment
Comprehensive review of noise impacts on sleep architecture. Even low-level nighttime sounds fragment sleep cycles, reducing time in restorative deep sleep stages. Effects accumulate over time, contributing to cognitive and emotional impairment.
Mental health outcomes of noise pollution
Population studies linking environmental noise to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and psychological distress. Relationship shows dose-response pattern, with greater noise exposure correlating with worse mental health outcomes.
Acoustic Interventions
Effectiveness of residential soundproofing
Field study measuring real-world effectiveness of various acoustic interventions in residential settings. Findings demonstrate that accessible modifications (curtains, sealing, furniture placement) can achieve 5-15 dB noise reduction—sufficient for meaningful improvement.
Material properties and sound absorption
Technical reference on acoustic properties of common materials. Provides evidence base for material selection recommendations in our programs, demonstrating effectiveness of soft textiles and strategic placement.
Environmental Psychology
Restorative environments and attention restoration theory
Foundational work establishing that certain environmental qualities support cognitive restoration. Quiet, natural settings allow depleted attention systems to recover, enhancing subsequent performance and wellbeing.
Perceived control and noise tolerance
Classic studies demonstrating that perceived control over noise substantially reduces its negative impact. Findings inform our emphasis on creating controllable acoustic zones rather than pursuing complete silence.
Our Research Contributions
Long-term outcomes of domestic acoustic interventions
Longitudinal study following 350 program participants over 18 months. Findings demonstrate sustained improvements in sleep quality, stress markers, and self-reported wellbeing. Interventions remained in place with 87% of participants, suggesting high acceptability and practical sustainability.
Accessibility of evidence-based noise reduction
Analysis of cost-effectiveness across various acoustic interventions in diverse housing types. Results show that modest investment (under £200) in targeted modifications typically achieves 70-80% of benefit from professional soundproofing costing thousands, making effective interventions accessible across income levels.