The Airbus Global Headquarters project in Toulouse brought together two distinct yet critical challenges: high standards for internal acoustic comfort and protection from external noise.
As a confidential workplace for teams working across engineering, strategy, and top management, the building required optimal speech privacy and sound insulation in all areas, from open-plan offices to leadership zones.
But its location — next to an airport and the A380 assembly plant, introduced additional complexity: ensuring façade performance to reduce aircraft and industrial noise while maintaining indoor well-being.
The project also had to meet the acoustic requirements of the BREEAM certification and accommodate a wide range of spaces, including restaurants, reception areas, and conference rooms.
We delivered a complete acoustic study covering the entire facility, from offices to event spaces, with the goal of achieving both confidentiality and comfort.
We began with detailed modelling to define reverberation times, insulation targets, and HVAC noise thresholds. For large conference halls and lobbies, we selected materials that aligned with the project’s design while ensuring speech intelligibility.
To manage external noise, we conducted on-site environmental measurements and focused on façade insulation performance. Noisy systems were isolated and carefully located to protect quiet zones like hotel rooms and training areas.
We worked closely with the interior designers to integrate acoustic solutions without compromising aesthetics.
Airbus now operates in a headquarters that supports both privacy and well-being, even in a noise-sensitive environment.
More than 20,000 employees benefit annually from a workspace that encourages focus and collaboration, from the main offices to the Leadership University campus. The building achieves stringent acoustic goals while maintaining its BREEAM certification.
