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Project Overview: Acoustic Treatment in a Courthouse Renovation
- Project: Chatham County Courthouse Acoustic Renovation
- Address: 133 Montgomery St, Savannah, GA 31401
- Client: JE Dunn Construction
- Facility Type: Historic Courthouse & Government Offices
- Objective: Reduce echo & improve speech clarity in public & judicial spaces
- Scope: Wood acoustic paneling, fabric-wrapped panels & fiberglass insulation
Located in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, the Chatham County Courthouse underwent a major renovation to enhance both functionality and acoustic quality. With its large public spaces and traditional design, the building required modern treatments that wouldn’t compromise its classic architectural integrity.
JE Dunn Construction brought in Commercial Acoustics to deliver a discreet yet powerful acoustic solution. Our team installed coordinated systems across four floors—including wood paneling, fiberglass insulation, and fabric-wrapped panels—to bring the courthouse up to current performance standards while preserving its historic character.
Perforated Wood Paneling for Courtroom Absorption & Warmth
- Material: MDF-backed veneer with custom-stained perforated face
- Installation: Offset-mounted with fiberglass insulation behind
- Result: Clean, seamless look that mimics solid wood wall cladding
In courtroom environments, acoustic performance must align with the gravitas of the space. For this courthouse renovation, we installed custom perforated wood paneling in each courtroom. These panels featured an MDF core, a stained veneer face, and a precisely perforated pattern that delivered acoustic performance without compromising aesthetics.
Each panel was installed slightly off the wall to create a cavity for fiberglass insulation, boosting sound absorption while keeping the insulation hidden. Together, the system created a clean, high-end look—resembling traditional wood millwork while quietly delivering an NRC rating of 0.90. It’s the kind of subtle design move that keeps judges, attorneys, and jurors focused without visual or acoustic distractions.
Wood Planks in Lobby & Atrium for Elevated Public Spaces
- Product: Horizontal perforated wood planks with matching veneer
- Location: Lobby & atrium walls spanning all four floors
- Backing: 1″ thick, 6 pcf fiberglass for enhanced absorption
To treat the large, echo-prone volumes of the courthouse lobby and atrium, we used horizontally mounted perforated wood planks—similar in material to the courtroom panels but formatted for open, multi-story public areas. The planks extended across four floors, bringing both consistency and sophistication to the interior architecture.
Behind each wood plank, we installed high-density fiberglass to absorb reflected sound and reduce echo throughout the atrium. The combination of warm wood tones and clean installation helped maintain a civic atmosphere while elevating the space with contemporary design detail. These planks serve as both acoustic assets and architectural highlights—especially in spaces where first impressions count.
Fabric-Wrapped Panels for Echo Control & Speech Clarity
- Finish: Neutral greige fabric selected to match wood finishes
- Location: Installed above wood panels in courtroom upper walls
- Function: Absorbs mid & high frequencies to improve clarity
Above the wood paneling in each courtroom, fabric-wrapped acoustic panels were installed to further refine sound quality. These panels focused on controlling echo and ensuring that speech remained intelligible throughout proceedings—critical for any legal environment.
The panels were customized in size and shape to fit existing architectural breaks and were finished in a greige fabric that complemented the woodwork without drawing attention. Together with the wood paneling and fiberglass insulation, they completed a layered acoustic strategy tailored for precision and discretion in a high-stakes setting.
Conclusion: Courthouse Renovation that Balances Tradition & Performance
This project at Chatham County Courthouse highlights how wood paneling and modern acoustic treatments can coexist in civic architecture. The design team achieved their goals of maintaining a dignified, historic aesthetic while bringing the building’s acoustic performance in line with today’s standards.
For architects and general contractors working on courthouse renovation projects, the balance between form and function is always a challenge. At Commercial Acoustics, we specialize in delivering solutions that look like part of the architecture—whether it’s wood paneling, fabric wraps, or concealed insulation.
If your next project involves a courthouse renovation or public facility upgrade, let’s talk about your space. Our team can support you from design development through final installation.
FAQs: Acoustic Wood Paneling & Courthouse Renovation
What acoustic materials work best in courthouse renovations?
Perforated wood panels and fabric-wrapped systems provide absorption without disrupting the formal aesthetic. Fiberglass backing boosts performance in large rooms.
Can acoustic paneling be integrated into historic architecture?
Yes. Veneer finishes, custom stains, and panel dimensions can be tailored to match existing woodwork, moldings, and trim details in older government buildings.
How does acoustic treatment improve courtroom functionality?
It reduces reverberation, enhances speech clarity, and improves privacy between adjacent rooms—critical for proceedings involving testimony, jury instructions, or recordings.
Do wood panels actually reduce sound, or are they just decorative?
When perforated and backed with fiberglass, wood panels are highly absorptive—offering both visual appeal and measurable NRC ratings up to 0.90 or higher.
What role do general contractors play in acoustic installations?
GCs coordinate sequencing with trades (HVAC, MEP, lighting) to ensure acoustic systems are installed cleanly and don’t interfere with code or finish schedules.
