MODULE 1: ACOUSTICS

Jean Louis Garner

Architect who built the Paris Opera House and is an expert in acoustics.

Architectural acoustics

Field of study that was discovered 25 years after the construction of the Paris Opera House, pioneered by Wallace Sabine.

Wallace Clement Sabine

Known as the father of architectural acoustics, he made significant contributions to the field.

Boston Symphony Hall

The first auditorium designed using scientifically derived acoustical principles.

Acoustics

The scientific study of sound and its properties.

Sound

An auditory sensation in the ear or a disturbance in a medium.

Resonance

The reinforcement or prolongation of sound through reflection from a surface or synchronous vibration of a neighboring subject.

0 - 70 dB

Safe decibel range for sound levels.

130 - 180 dB

Unsafe decibel range for sound levels.

Tinnitus

A condition characterized by a constant ringing, hissing, or other sound in the ears or head, often caused by excessive noise exposure.

Infrasonic sound

Sound waves with frequencies below the lower limit of human hearing (below 0 dB).

Ultrasound

Sound waves with frequencies above the upper limit of human hearing (above 140 dB).

Hypersound

Sound waves with frequencies above 1 Gigahertz.

Library, museum, health care facilities

Spaces where a quiet environment is necessary.

Classrooms, boardrooms, lecture halls, courtrooms

Spaces where understanding of speech is vital.

Restaurants, lobbies, food courts, malls

Spaces where a buzzing atmosphere should not be overwhelming.

Airports, educational facilities, government facilities, public spaces

Spaces where public announcements need to be audible.

Open office, call centers, meeting areas

Spaces where speech privacy is important.

Recording studios, concert halls, practice rooms, performance spaces

Spaces where music enhancement is crucial, often utilizing soft and diffusive materials.

Office (doctor, counseling), human resources, police facilities

Spaces where confidentiality is essential.

Worship centers, theaters, clubhouses, multipurpose rooms

Spaces where both speech and music need

Design Development stage

stage where architects consider acoustics