Michael Raven

Michael provides consultancy in all aspects of acoustics for performing arts venues, including room acoustic design and planning, sound separation, and noise and vibration design.

I’m an acoustic consultant and I aim to design spaces so they sound as spectacular as they look! My work involves collaborating closely with architects, designers and clients to develop acoustic solutions that are both technically robust and sensitive to the creative vision of a project.I approach a project with a balance of analytical thinking and listening, both in the technical sense and in understanding what people are really trying to achieve in a space.What matters most to me is ensuring that acoustics support how a space is used. Whether it’s a grand performance venue or a small work space, I’m focused on creating environments where users don’t have to think about acoustics but simply experience the space as it should be.

What Brought You to Charcoalblue

I’ve always loved music and theatre, so working at Charcoalblue felt like a natural fit. I wanted to be part of a team that brings spaces to life for performers and audiences alike, while also solving complex acoustic challenges. It’s the combination of creativity, collaboration, and technical problem-solving that really attracted me.

What We Won’t Learn from Your CV

I have always loved playing musical instruments. From piano to ukulele, French horn to steel pan drums, playing music brings me great joy and fulfilment!

Cultural Value You Most Identify With

The Charcoalblue value I most identify with is Environmental Focus. I am passionate about our collective and individual responsibilities to respond to the climate crisis. This is a challenge that the acoustics industry is currently grappling with, as often acoustic performance is at loggerheads with lower carbon design. However, I believe that good acoustic design, where acoustics is considered early on, can make a real difference to both the embedded and operational carbon of a building.