In this episode of the Create A Place podcast, Kristina talks with Dino Ninassi, founder of Dino+Associates, about why acoustics are no longer an afterthought—they’re foundational to workplace culture, trust and wellbeing.

Dino breaks down his simple ABC framework (Absorb, Block, Cover) for assessing and solving acoustic challenges in today’s hybrid spaces and shares why different environments—from HR offices to open collaboration zones—require different solutions. They also explore the impact of post-pandemic sensitivities, neurodiversity, and why sound is often the most overlooked equity issue in design.

From real-world success stories (like a transformed call center at Wounded Warrior Project) to costly missteps that happen when acoustics are left out too late, this episode makes the business case for getting sound right—and doing it early.

🎧 Listen in to learn:

Why our sensitivity to sound has changed—and what leaders need to know

How to use the ABC method to diagnose the real problem

What sound masking actually does (and what it doesn’t)

Why retrofitting can cost 145% more—and how to avoid it

What you can do right now to create more inclusive, high-performing spaces

🎧 Whether you're planning a workplace refresh, designing for neurodiverse teams, or just trying to make your space sound and feel better, this conversation is for you!

Connect with Dino ::

- LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/dino-n-3856411a/

- Dino+Associates : https://www.dino-associates.com/

- Acoustic Solutions : https://www.dino-associates.com/acoustic-solutions

Connect with KY ::

👊🏼LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/createaplacepodcast  

🎙️Podcast : https://createaplace.net  

📐Design : https://www.createandcompany.com  

📺 YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@CREATEAPLACE

🎧Apple : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/create-a-place/id1779942208

🎧Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/7fIVCgnR433sniYRvrRwNZ?si=b77e418c27524bc4

🎧Podbean : https://createaplace.podbean.com