Soundproofing a University Lecture Hall: Georgia State University

• Project: Stretched Fabric Wall System for GSU Lecture Hall
• Address: Georgia State University, 33 Gilmer St SE, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Facility Type: University Lecture Hall
• Client: Georgia State University
• Objective: Reduce Echo & Improve Speech Clarity in Multipurpose Auditoriums
• Scope: Install Acoustical Fabric Wall Systems on Rear & Stage Walls of Two Halls

As part of its campus modernization initiative, Georgia State University identified the need for improved acoustics in two new lecture halls. These large multipurpose spaces were designed to accommodate lectures, speaking events, and small performances—making speech intelligibility a key design goal. Commercial Acoustics was brought in early during construction to implement a soundproofing solution that would integrate cleanly with the architecture and provide long-term acoustic performance.

• University Lecture Hall: Large Volumes Amplify Reverberation & Echo
• Hard Surfaces: CMU Walls & Drywall Ceilings Reflect Sound Waves
• Multipurpose Use: Events Require Balanced Absorption & Clarity

University lecture halls often feature modern, durable finishes that aren’t acoustically forgiving. In this case, the drywall ceilings and concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls created excessive echo and poor speech intelligibility. These hard surfaces bounce sound around the room, making it difficult for students and faculty to hear clearly, especially during unamplified discussions.

Because the lecture halls were intended for a variety of academic and public functions, they needed to strike the right balance between clarity, coverage, and comfort. That’s where a targeted acoustic solution came into play—one that would deliver results without disrupting the architectural intent.

• Stretched Fabric: Ideal for Angled Ceilings & Curved Surfaces
• Segmented Panels: 1″ Fiberglass Core Covered with Acoustic Fabric
• Custom Fit: Matched Architectural Slopes & Curves Seamlessly

Instead of traditional wall panels, we installed a stretched fabric wall system designed to follow the geometry of each space. Each panel section consisted of a one-inch-thick fiberglass core wrapped in acoustically transparent fabric. This system allowed for custom spacing and was ideal for aligning with the auditorium’s sloped ceilings.

We also used fabric wall along the front of the curved stage, where standard panels would not have performed well. The fabric wall system’s ability to bend and conform to different shapes made it a practical and visually cohesive solution. It preserved the aesthetic flow while solving acoustic issues that would otherwise hinder speech clarity and presentation quality.

• Soundproofing Results: Controlled Echo & Enhanced Voice Intelligibility
• Flexible Installation: Adaptable to Complex Layouts & Room Geometry
• Proactive Planning: Installed Pre-Occupancy to Minimize Labor Costs

Installing the system before students or faculty began using the space allowed for maximum efficiency. Post-occupancy acoustic upgrades typically require overnight labor, more logistical coordination, and workarounds for fixed seating—all of which drive up project costs and timelines.

Reverberation time for lecture halls should ideally be under 1.5 seconds, with 1.3 seconds as a target for most multipurpose uses. Without treatment, these rooms would have had significantly higher reverb times due to the prevalence of reflective materials. By proactively installing high-NRC fabric wall systems, the university avoided these issues and created acoustically optimized environments for academic engagement.

• Architect-Friendly: Integrates with Architectural Features & AV Layouts
• Low Profile: Flush-Mount System Maintains Clean Visual Lines
• Custom Spacing: Designed Around Penetrations & Wall-Mounted Fixtures

One reason architects and general contractors favor stretched fabric wall systems is their design flexibility. In these lecture halls, the panels were spaced to accommodate necessary penetrations—like AV wiring, speaker mounts, and wall features—without compromising symmetry or acoustic coverage.

The panels were also color-matched to existing finishes, providing an unobtrusive look that maintained the room’s visual cohesion. Unlike bulky acoustic panels, the stretched fabric system appeared fully integrated—without gaps, grids, or distractions. The result was an auditorium space that performed acoustically while supporting the design intent of the architect and university planning team.

Georgia State University’s lecture hall soundproofing project demonstrates how smart planning and tailored solutions can make a long-term impact on learning environments. Stretched fabric wall systems offered the ideal balance of performance, adaptability, and aesthetics—critical for large academic spaces with complex geometries.

By addressing acoustic treatment during design and pre-occupancy, the university avoided the cost and complexity of retrofits, while delivering a better classroom experience from the start. These systems help ensure that every word, whether amplified or not, reaches its audience clearly and effectively.

If you’re designing or renovating a university lecture hall and want to ensure it performs acoustically from day one, reach out to our team to learn how fabric wall systems and other soundproofing solutions can meet your project’s goals.