Aiming for sound design

Adjusting to new surroundings, such as a new or remodeled home, can affect people’s hearing ability. Certain home features absorb sound, making it easier to hear. These include carpeting, paneling, curtains, and upholstered furniture. Other features allow sound to reverberate, making hearing more difficult. These include hardwood floors, cathedral ceilings, and minimalist decor. Hearing aids don’t necessarily help, since they magnify all sounds.