Designing for Effective Acoustics

This presentation is a Registered Program of AIA/CES and IDCEC. It is offered free of charge. It is 60 minutes in length, qualifying for 1 Learning Unit (Health Safety and Welfare) or 0.1 CEU. In Ontario, Canada, the presentation is 1 hour and 15 minutes long and qualifies for 1.25 Learning Units.

Summary

Studies show that acoustics are an essential consideration in meeting what is arguably the primary goal of the office: to provide a setting conducive to optimal work performance.

But what is an effective acoustic environment? Because many have an incomplete understanding of this concept, they often pursue noise control strategies in what we call the “Quest for Silence” – the notion that good acoustics are achieved when the sound levels in a space are as low as possible, with zero being the best. Others believe they can resolve the noise problems in their office by using only one or two of the methods and materials described in the “ABC Rule.” The results of these assumptions are usually disappointing.

This need not be the case. The first part of this presentation introduces the goals of acoustic design, methods of noise control and how various interior design elements can help achieve good acoustic performance in an office setting. The second part explains the acoustic principles behind the use of these techniques and materials.

By showing how sound masking works in conjunction with absorptive elements, the presentation demonstrates that a combination of acoustic treatments is key to achieving the desired results because each one functions in a unique way.