Acoustic design criteria in green building rating systems

Abstract

Acoustic design aspect has been considered in various green building rating systems as part of the sustainable building design approach in an attempt to ensure a desirable acoustic environment for the future occupants. Primarily, the focus is on speech privacy, background noise control and noise isolation in a general building setting. In this paper, the acoustic design criteria adopted by different green building rating systems, including LEED in the United States, China Green Building Label in China, BREEAM in Britain, Green Star in Australia, CASBEE in Japan, BEAM Plus in Hong Kong, are evaluated in a comparative study with pros and cons highlighted. Selected criteria are investigated against respective regulatory requirements and common acoustic design standards and practices. The potential implications on building design and construction as well as the associated benefits to building users are also discussed. Possible conflicts and synergy with other sustainable design aspects in the green building rating systems are addressed. Lastly, acoustic design strategies and post-occupancy acoustic surveys for green buildings are recommended.