Meeting “green” acoustical requirements in flexible classrooms

Abstract

Acoustical design in classrooms has evolved significantly since the ANSI S12.60-2002 standard was first established. Since then, institutions such as Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) and the Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) have adopted aspects of the ANSI standard for school projects. Simultaneously, architects are creating increasingly flexible classroom designs. The push for a more flexible learning space sometimes clashes with acoustical design requirements stipulated by LEED and CHPS. This paper will discuss some of the acoustic design challenges of creating flexible, 21st century learning spaces while at the same time meeting the acoustic requirements driven by LEED and CHPS compliance. Discussion will include movable partitions in a learning space that work, sound absorptive finishes implemented beyond the standard suspended acoustical ceiling, and non-conventional mechanical systems in classroom settings. Some case studies will illustrate the discussion.