What things make sound stay in a room? For example, the blocks in auditoriums.

BRY2K

Here are some tips: Reflected sound is most noticeable in empty rooms or those almost completely furnished with hard surface materials. It is generally a minor problem in a home. A single absorptive surface such as carpeting,acoustical tile or some upholstered furniture usually makes most rooms acoustically comfortable. In fact, over-use of soft surfaces will create a hushed, intimate atmosphere–appropriate in some rooms but oppressive or “dead” in others. Extensive use of soft surfaces will also cut the often pleasant background sounds which help mask noises coming from other areas. The best sound absorbers are thick and porous. Fabric does little unless it is padded or gathered as in upholstered furniture and draperies. Wallhangings work best if padded and hung slightly away from the wall. A suspended ceiling with resilient mounts will block noise coming from above. To keep noise from basement recreation rooms from traveling upstairs, use acoustical tile backed with well-sealed, hard gypsum board. There are a LOT more cool tips found in the resources cited below: http://learningstore.uwex.edu/pdf/B3239.pdf Oct 31 09, 7:19 PM