Sounding good: Acoustics in universal design by Emma Green, NATSPEC Communications

Sounding good: Acoustics in universal design

By Emma Green, NATSPEC Communications

Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Each space has unique acoustic properties. Think of a concert hall, for instance. This is a space designed for one specific purpose, where every consideration is made to enhance the acoustic performance of the space. In this context, acoustics is an essential consideration as it affects how successfully the space can fulfil its purpose. The same goes for a cinema, an auditorium, a school hall, as well as many other spaces and their respective purposes.

However, the acoustic properties of a space can also be seemingly unrelated to the space’s overall function. This is why acoustic design considerations may sometimes be viewed as optional additions, rather than integral to the way a space facilitates comfort and interaction among its users.

Acoustic design can have a significant impact on health, wellbeing, communication and productivity. This has particular consequences in the wider context of universal design. Universal design is the design of buildings, products or environments to make them accessible and usable to all people of different ages and abilities over time, without the need for adaptation or specialised design. Good acoustic design allows the greatest possible number of people to communicate effectively, enabling them to experience the built environment in comfort.

Certain buildings and spaces require specific acoustic design and specialist advice when acoustic performance is integral to the function of the space. The acoustic performance of other buildings, however, is frequently not considered beyond the minimum statutory requirements. This does not make it any less of an important design consideration.

The NCC and Australian Standards outline requirements for quantifiable values, including sound insulation ratings, noise levels and reverberation times, as well as for hearing augmentation systems. Appendix A to AS 2107, for example, includes information on the reverberation times of spaces that are considered to possess good acoustic qualities depending on their function and room volumes. Other considerations can further improve design quality and ensure the acoustics of a space are appropriate for the greatest number of people.

Applying universal design to acoustic design involves first assessing the internal room layout, including the volume and shape of the room, and identifying sources of sound and noise according to the use of the space. The likelihood of background noise, for example, may depend on building services, equipment and other people.

Opera House in Oslo. An early winter morning. Photo - Heidi Thon

Certain buildings and spaces require specific acoustic design and specialist advice when acoustic performance is integral to the function of the space.

Methods to isolate, separate and mask these noise sources include dividers, louvres, screening and insulation. It is important to consider, however, that sound insulation will also have inherent thermal insulation properties. Intelligible speech can be promoted by maintaining a direct line of sight from sound sources. Any announcements must be provided with an appropriate volume and pitch.

Selecting materials and surface finishes with sound absorption or reflectivity qualities appropriate to the space will help achieve high-quality acoustic design. However, it is useful to remember that an overly absorptive space with reduced reverberation time may seem too quiet and uncomfortable. Similarly, the use of a space may preclude the selection of products with greater sound absorption properties, such as bathrooms, laundries and food preparation areas.

Acoustic design choices are made in the context of the location, use and purpose of the space. NATSPEC TECHnote NTN DES 046 Universal Design: Acoustics provides helpful considerations for designers and specifiers. It is available for free online.

Within the framework of universal design, appropriate acoustic design allows a space to fulfil its purpose and provide a positive experience to the greatest number of users by improving usability. It is a fundamental part of creating a usable space for everyone.

NATSPEC is a not-for-profit organisation owned by Government and industry. It maintains the National Building Specification and has been a valued part of the Australian construction industry for over 45 years.