Preface
Fundamentals of Architectural Acoustics is designed to provide Architects and Contractors with the tools they need to design and build acoustically‐comfortable and code‐compliant spaces.
This Handbook contains core soundproofing & acoustical principles that every building professional should know, derived from a dozen years of engineering analyses, field tests, and assessments. Most of the principles don’t require any cost increases, and in fact, many of them will actually result in cost-‐savings if properly implemented.
From gym soundproofing in Seattle to 50-story high‐rise multi‐family developments in New England, and luxury cinemas from coast to coast, the same principles apply to give the end client a cost-effective design or remediation to noise issues. Our firm has engaged with the architectural industry, completing nearly 100 AIA Lunch & Learns over the past several years, in addition to countless other speaking engagements, to understand the most common and complex issues faced by Designers and Builders.
What You Don’t Need to Know (or Care) About
Noise issues are a commonplace concern – one with which most readers can easily identify. Whether it was noisy neighbors in college, loud roommates, annoying clicking of your refrigerator, or constant chatter from an office next door. Why then, are significant sums of money spent on high-‐end appliances and other amenities, while acoustic systems are left to be figured out by future tenants and property managers?
For years, the field of Architectural Acoustics has been shrouded in mystery. This is due to several factors, including the implicit:
- Complexity of Acoustics: although the science of acoustics can be rather complex, it can also be over‐complicated by those with extensive knowledge in the field. Acoustic Consultants have a tendency of providing detailed analysis, although sometimes more rudimentary assessments will provide adequate design insight, especially for basic wall assemblies or typical reverberation environments.
- Manufacturer’s Data: Further, many manufacturers use misleading lab test data and marketing materials which skew the conversation, making apples‐to‐apples comparisons between products difficult.
- Formal Education: There is very little formal schooling in this field, where architects often take one undergraduate level course and are expected to design acoustically‐acceptable and compliant environments, regardless of the anticipated use. Unlike thermal and structural engineering, there is little regulatory oversight. For instance, in the International Building Code, there are 17 codes that outline bathroom urinal placement, but only 2 that address sound attenuation between units.
