Peace and quiet - please!

So, I've mentioned that I am thinking of using cork for its sound absorption ability. This got me thinking of other ways to reduce sound in the kitchen, where there is typically a lot of banging, clanking etc. A quick search on the internet has lead me to the following products:

• Sound absorbing artwork (!) - Actually made of recycled cotton, these art panels are useful in both commercial and residential applications.
• Ventilation is super important to your health and to the contents of your home. Many people don't turn oven ventilation on, because oftentimes they inherit super noisy systems. My bath fan, for example, sounds much like a plane taking off. To someone with Autism, this might be unbearable. Make sure that you carefully look at the sones reading on any ventilation apparatus you choose. The lower the number the less noisy (conversation for example is rated at 1-4 sones).
• Appliances - So you've put in softer flooring and a quiet vent hood, but your dishwasher is so noisy you have to yell to talk over it. If I type 'quietest dishwasher' into Google, I get a couple of sites that rate dishwashers (just be sure you're using one that is a third party not trying to sell you something, a la Consumer Reports). Be prepared to spend more for peace and quiet: Bosch claims that their 800 series is the quietest dishwasher in the US and it comes with a $2100 price tag.
• I've mentioned drawer slides that self close and also anti-slam apparatus for doors - no more drawer/door slamming!
• Lastly, dishes in the sink are another big offender. Many sinks by Kohler have 'SilentShield' which claims to reduce the noise from dishes, running water and the disposal.

Please feel free to share any ideas you may have - I'd love to update my library!