Goal: To create a multi-purpose space
that can successfully control noise and can provide an acoustic environment appropriate for meetings and
receptions, both large and small. 
- Related Codes & Standards
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- Tips/Considerations
- Recommended reverberation time: 1-1.2
seconds
- Absorptive materials on the ceiling and/or walls are needed to reduce
the reverberation time.
- Be cautious when designing ceiling intricacies,
as they may cause unwanted reflections. Concave, barrel and
peaked elements can cause reflections to be focused, which
might lead to annoying reflections and noise build up.
- Operable walls covered with fabric alone
do not guarantee absorption.
- The STC rating of the operable walls
only refers to how well an individual panel performs in a
laboratory and does not necessarily indicate how well the
system will perform in the field. Specifying an NIC rating
can help ensure the desired isolation level.
- Once divided by operable walls, the acoustics
in the new space can change.
- Beware of potential noise impact to your
space from exterior sources and/or excessive HVAC noise. To
help protect your design, the NC level should not exceed 30
to 40. When specifying NC, specify an actual rating, such
as NC 35, rather than a range, such as NC 30-35. Although
specifying a lower number will ensure minimal background noise,
it might be cost prohibitive to achieve. Be realistic about
the amount of acceptable noise and the project's budget when
specifying an NC level.
- Maintain an elegant appearance by addressing
acoustical issues during the design phase. Retrofitting after
construction will limit your options, possibly impacting the
aesthetic integrity of the space.
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