To tap into the built environment’s full potential to improve well-being, one needs to better understand not only how noise negatively affects occupants’ physical and mental health, but the ways in which “the sonic...

Managing sound transfer into and throughout a large commercial building can present a serious challenge. To help manage this issue, this article ranks seven innovative materials, from most to least comprehensive, which can reduce...




The growing trend of open or exposed kitchens has created the need for restaurant ceilings satisfying esthetics, cleanability and hygiene requirements. This article will explore options for meeting these diverse demands.

What is “acoustical equity”? And how does one achieve it? These are significant questions, particularly considering the fact the Center for the Built Environment’s (CBE’s) post-occupancy survey dataset—one of the largest in the world—shows...


Plexiglass barriers and staying 2 m (6 ft) apart does not work in performing arts because some social distancing solutions can have a significant impact on acoustics. There are several key considerations when redesigning...

The benefits of a positive acoustic experience extend beyond traditional classrooms. Their relevance can be heard in gyms, aquatic centres, auditoriums, cafeterias, offices, theatres, band rehearsal rooms, recording and broadcast studios, fabrication shops, media...