A Vision for a Professional Sound

When I first connected with Roy from Auckland, he was ready to transform his garage into a professional-grade studio.
As a dedicated musician and producer, Roy needed a space where he could record, mix, and create without outside noise intruding  and without his work disturbing the neighborhood.

Roy had tackled DIY studio projects before, but this time, he wanted to get it right. Working closely together, we took his garage and rebuilt it from the inside out: fully sound-isolated, acoustically treated, and equipped with proper ventilation for long, comfortable sessions.

Today, Roy works in a studio that not only meets his technical needs but also inspires creativity every time he steps inside.

🔧 Project Challenges

Roy’s build came with some unique hurdles:

• Converting a standard garage into a fully isolated “room-within-a-room” without losing structural integrity.

• Finding cost-effective materials locally in New Zealand while maintaining top-level sound isolation.

• Designing an HVAC system that brought in fresh air without allowing sound leaks.

• Balancing the budget while leaving room for unexpected costs.

Project Solutions

Here’s how we brought Roy’s vision to life:

• Room-Within-a-Room Construction
  Built double walls with air gaps, multiple layers of mass, and proper sealing to block sound transmission in all directions.

• Locally Sourced Materials
  Used high-mass plasterboard and acoustic insulation available in NZ, and substituted carpet glue for Green Glue to achieve damping without blowing the budget.

• Acoustic Treatment for Mixing & Recording
  Installed bass traps, broadband absorbers, and diffusers, carefully placed to create a balanced listening environment. Movable panels were added for flexibility during recording sessions.

• Quiet, Efficient Ventilation
  Installed a mini-split HVAC system for climate control and custom ducting to maintain airflow while keeping the room completely isolated.

🧱 Upgraded Wall & Ceiling Assembly for Maximum Isolation
The new construction features double stud walls, two layers of 5/8" drywall on each side, and high-density insulation. This assembly stops low-frequency rumble and keeps every note contained within the studio.

🚪 Sealed Entry Points
We installed a high-STC door with full perimeter seals to eliminate any weak points in the sound barrier. Every electrical penetration and seam was sealed to ensure no sound escapes.

💡 The Result
Roy now has a world-class studio right in his garage. The space is quiet, comfortable, and accurate. Perfect for both creative experimentation and critical listening. He’s upgraded his equipment, improved his mixes, and enjoys working in a room built to professional standards.