The present study adopted a human-centred approach to explore the potential of audio-video Virtual Reality (VR) to evaluate indoor noise protection by building characteristics. Different background speech conditions, convolved with sound insulation filters of adjacent office rooms, were presented in a VR office environment and the effects on cognitive performances and subjective ratings were measured. The found effect patterns were the same as those obtained in a real laboratory setting reported by Schlittmeier, Hellbrück, Thaden, and Vorländer. [(2008). Ergonomics 51, 719-736]. This exemplary study promises various options for research on noise effects by the use of virtual built environments which are of high plausibility and unlimited variability.