Reverberation Control in a Modern Worship Space with AcoustiBuilt Ceiling System

Cornerstone Church of Lakewood Ranch Project Overview The Vision Cornerstone Church of Lakewood Ranch set out to create a worship environment that balances architectural beauty with acoustic performance. The design called for a modern sanctuary with sweeping curves, tall ceilings, and expansive glazing—elements that enhance the visual experience but can introduce acoustic challenges if left […]

Florida State University – Acoustical Scope

FSU College of Business — building exterior

FSU College of Business — Tallahassee, Florida Project Location GC Scope FSU College of Business Tallahassee, FL Culpepper Ceilings, Metal & Fabric Wall Panels Project Overview Florida State University’s new College of Business Legacy Hall building represents one of the most ambitious academic construction projects in the university’s history. Spanning multiple stories, the facility features […]

Specialty Ceilings & Stretched Fabric Wall for High-End Office Space: 1001 Water Street

Project Overview: Acoustical Scopes in High-Rise Office Building       1001 Water Street is a new high-rise building in Downtown Tampa, offering luxury office and retail space. Commercial Acoustics was contracted to furnish and install all acoustical scopes on the 12th floor of the building. The design team was able to incorporate products that enhanced both the […]

20 Amazing Facts About Sound: Science, Surprises & Real-World Acoustics

20 Amazing Facts About Sound

Why Sound Still Amazes Us Sound surrounds us every second of the day — from the 32 Hz hum of city traffic to the 20,000 Hz buzz of a cicada. It shapes mood, focus, and even how buildings feel. Despite being invisible, sound is energy you can measure, control, and design with precision. Whether you’re […]

Best Sound Absorbing Materials: The Complete Guide for Offices & Studios

Best Sound Absorbing Materials

Why Sound Absorbing Materials Matter Sound absorbing materials are essential for reducing echo, controlling reflections, and improving speech clarity. Whether in a music studio, open office, or classroom, the right acoustic materials help create a balanced, comfortable environment. Without absorption, even the best sound systems and designs suffer from harsh reflections and reverberation that make […]

Sound Absorption Coefficient Chart (125 Hz–4 kHz)

Sound Absorption Coefficient Chart - Commercial Acoustics

Absorption Coefficients of Common Building Materials The sound absorption coefficient (α) measures how much sound energy a surface absorbs at specific frequencies. Values range from 0.00 (highly reflective) to 1.00 (highly absorptive). The data below helps you compare common materials and finishes across octave bands. Use these values when selecting finishes, estimating reverberation times, or […]

Airborne vs Structure-Borne Noise

Airborne vs Structure-Borne Noise

Why the Difference Matters Every noise problem in a building starts with one question: is it airborne or structure-borne? Knowing which type you’re dealing with determines how to solve it. Airborne noise moves through open air — voices, televisions, barking dogs, or passing traffic — while structure-borne noise travels through solid materials such as floors, […]

Why Sound Moves Faster in Concrete Than in Air

Why Sound Moves Faster in Concrete Than in Air

Understanding the Physics Behind Sound Speed Sound isn’t just something we hear—it’s vibration energy moving through matter. Whether it’s a shout, a hammer strike, or a subwoofer pulse, all sound waves rely on molecules bumping into each other to carry that energy forward. The difference between air and concrete comes down to how easily those […]

Common Types of Acoustic Ceilings

Why Acoustic Ceilings Matter in Modern Design Acoustic ceilings are a critical part of modern commercial design. Whether in offices, schools, healthcare facilities, or performing arts venues, they balance performance and aesthetics. The right ceiling tile helps architects and engineers reduce noise, control reverberation, and enhance the overall experience of a space. By considering both […]