DECIBEL Wins in the Innovative Service Category at the Forbes Innovation Awards 2025
DECIBEL, Bulgaria’s leading acoustic engineering company, has been awarded first place in the “Innovative Service” category at the Forbes Innovation Forum & Awards 2025. The award recognises one of DECIBEL’s innovative services, Acoustic Observation, which introduces a forward-thinking, science-based approach to designing buildings for optimal sound performance – both before and after construction.
Acoustic Observation: A Holistic Approach for Acoustic Performance
DECIBEL’s Acoustic Observation service sets a new benchmark in architectural acoustics. It encompasses the study and design of buildings for optimal sound performance, combining expertise in both sound isolation (preventing unwanted noise from entering or leaving a space) and room acoustics (controlling how sound behaves within it).
What makes this service unique is its comprehensive scope. It can be applied before construction, when engineers and architects assess all relevant factors – such as a building’s orientation, exposure to street noise, room layout and materials – to ensure that acoustic comfort is embedded from the very first design stage.
It is equally valuable after construction, when precise measurements and analyses allow for the fine-tuning of acoustics, identifying any deviations from the design intent and optimising the space for its intended use.
By integrating predictive simulation with real-world evaluation, Acoustic Observation enables clients to achieve the ideal balance between performance, functionality and cost efficiency – transforming the way we think about sound in architecture.
A Mission to Raise Acoustic Awareness
Speaking on stage at the Forbes Innovation Forum, Diana Nedkova, Co-founder of DECIBEL, underlined the importance of acoustic awareness in contemporary building design:
“In Sofia today, there are only 2 buildings that are soundproofed and acoustically treated. That’s why our goal is not just to build quieter spaces, but to raise awareness of how sound design affects our well-being – starting from the very blueprint.”
She continued:
“After 13 years of developing solutions for noise control and sound improvement, we wanted to go a step further – to create sound-conscious buildings before they exist, and to optimise those already built. Acoustic Observation is our way of making the invisible, audible.”
Recognised for Innovation and Impact
Over several weeks, the jury of the Forbes Innovation Awards 2025 evaluated numerous companies and individuals across six categories, assessing how each innovation enhances efficiency and addresses significant societal challenges.
In the “Innovative Service” category, DECIBEL distinguished itself among six finalists, winning top recognition for the originality, depth and practical value of its Acoustic Observation service.
The Forbes Innovation Forum & Awards 2025, held at Sofia Tech Park, once again brought together Bulgaria’s most forward-thinking organisations, celebrating those who harness technology, creativity and insight to shape a better future.