Planning & Building the Voiceover Booth

Thank you for taking the time to check out my studio diaries detailing the process of converting my garage to a recording studio. Now the main room is on its way, our attention switches to building the VO booth.

Building the VO Booth Pt. 1

Build a studio in a garage. Voiceover booth build plan. Wall Layers
Another scribble on a piece of paper!

When it came to constructing the VO booth walls, various options were considered. As space is very much at a premium, I needed to achieve the perfect sounding area that would be flexible enough for a range of recording situations with a reasonable footprint. I opted for a diamond build, which worked well within the main room, creating a nice flow from door to door. 

After grabbing some some advice from my friend and esteemed colleague  Natalie Cooper who had a similar installation, we concluded that a three-layer wall design would be the most effective and space efficient way to go forward. This included 2 laters of standard 9mm drywall separated by a layer of Green Glue. This sound deadening compound is used to create a small air gap which is a great insulator. On the outer section, a layer of Tecsound will be added. The heavy putty-like material will also be used to bridge all joints and added to the base. The outer shell will be made up of 12mm sound rated drywall  with all gaps and edges filled and finished for painting. Inside, a double layer of stud, will be filled with 2 layers of rockwool running vertically and horizontally. The booth will be completely freestanding to avoid any vibration from the house walls. 

Due to the size of the build and the work required, assembly of the framework and boarding would be done be at the workshop before being transported in sections and re-assembled at the studio. 

Build a studio in a garage. Voiceover booth Timber Structure.
Diamond shape is agreed and the frame is built
Build a studio in a garage. Voiceover booth Structure with fitted Wall Layers
The initial shell is created and board cut to shape. Due to the weight all other sections will be added later.
The base is a good size! I'm 5'10 😉
Build a studio in a garage. Installing voiceover booth Structure with fitted Wall Layers in to main room
With the floor positioned and secure the inner sides go up.
Build a studio in a garage.Lifting Voiceover booth ceiling in to place.
The lid goes up and is it heavy! Additional layers are slid on top and secured after.
Build a studio in a garage. Voiceover booth final framework installation.
With supports in place the 2 remaining sides are installed.
Build a studio in a garage. Voiceover booth final fixings prior to outer wall layer installation.
Frame work is up, the door frame added and the lid fastened.
Build a studio in a garage. Green Glue is used between the 2 inner boards to create an air gap.
Green Glue is used between the 2 inner boards to create an air gap.
Build a studio in a garage. Tecsound layer is added prior to the final wall installation
Tecsound layer is added prior to the final wall installation
Build a studio in a garage. The 12mm sound rated drywall added to outside  and insulation is added inside.
The 12mm sound rated drywall and insulation is added inside.

Previously – A Room is Born

Next – Building the Booth Part 2

Credits – Habgood Creations | Natalie Cooper

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VOICEOVERS, AUDIO PRODUCTION & SOUND DESIGN