We’ve all experienced the frustration of trying to concentrate amidst chaos. Whether it’s the roar of traffic, the chatter of colleagues, or the blare of music, noise can be a challenging barrier to focus and productivity. Now, imagine the impact this has on our students.
A quiet and focused learning environment is essential for optimal student performance in education. Yet, many schools and universities fail to create spaces conducive to learning. From echoing classrooms to bustling libraries, noise pollution can significantly hinder students’ ability to absorb information, solve problems, and achieve academic success.
“USC Shoah Foundation” Los Angeles, CA, Belzberg Architects. Photo by Bruce Damonte
This blog, full of inspirational acoustic projects made of our proprietary Soft Sound® material, will explore the critical role of acoustics in educational settings. We’ll examine how excessive noise impacts student learning, the benefits of creating distraction-free study spaces, and practical solutions for improving sound quality in classrooms, libraries, and other learning environments.
Educational institutions can empower students to reach their full potential by prioritizing acoustics. Let’s explore how to acoustically tune educational spaces, from libraries to study halls, cafeterias, and beyond, and how this can positively impact student empowerment.
“University of Arizona” Tucson, AZ, CO Architects. Photo by Taube Photography.
The Health Sciences Innovation Building at the University of Arizona offers a state-of-the-art environment for medical, nursing, pharmacy, and public health professionals, students, and faculty to work, learn, and collaborate. Acoustics and noise reduction were crucial for the well-being of everyone in the building.
Arktura’s SoftFold® ceiling system covered ceilings and walls at different angles, creating an engaging atmosphere for all. The design of these modules allowed external lighting to be integrated into the fixtures.
“University of Arizona” Tucson, AZ, CO Architects. Photo by Taube Photography.
In addition to the large-scale acoustics shown previously, this building is also equipped with SoundEdge® linear baffle systems finished in the University of Arizona’s signature colors. These acoustical baffles not only add a splash of color to the rooms but also reduce noise in the space.
As a result, the building boasts a modern design that naturally incorporates acoustics, thanks to Arktura’s careful consideration of these solutions’ design, manufacturing, and installation. These solutions help the building achieve its goal of attracting and retaining top talent in the health field.
“North Bend Elementary” Humble, TX, PBK Architects. Photo courtesy of Armstrong World Industries
Multiple colorful finishes and Arktura acoustic ceiling systems were incorporated into various themed play and enrichment areas. Through a series of Atmoshpera® acoustic baffle systems, we created a playful atmosphere for the children and sought an acoustic solution to give adults a friendly visual environment while attenuating sound for all.
Four different Atmosphera® systems were utilized in seven distinct areas, each tailored to the space’s unique needs. The systems were strategically selected, such as using the Atmosphera® Contour system around a tree structure to provide a canopy and the Atmosphera® Versa 3D system with its wave-like surface around a whale sculpture for its field-trimmable capabilities.
“USC Shoah Foundation” Los Angeles, CA, Belzberg Architects. Photo by Bruce Damonte
The Global Headquarters of the USC Shoah Foundation – The Institute for Visual History and Education was outfitted with the intricate geometry of SoftFold® acoustic clouds. These work areas feature individual workstations with collective, collaborative areas in the middle.
The acoustic modules are used sparingly, providing a distinct duo look between the acoustic clouds and the more traditional ceiling.
“Ruth S. Harley University Center” Garden City, NY, Lori Kupfer Architect. Photo by Damira Maricic.
For open spaces like study halls, communal areas, and more, look to larger-sized acoustics to comfortably fill the space. The Ruth S. Harley University Center in Garden City, NY, utilizes SoundStar® hexagonally shaped cellular coffers to mitigate excess noise in this common area.
Each module is made of angled surfaces constructed from our Soft Sound® acoustic material with a metal substructure. SoundStar® is flexible and modular, allowing it to adapt to various spaces and design concepts to create a stunning visual impact.
“Grand Rapids Community College” Grand Rapids, MI, Tower Pinkster. Photo by Andrew Schmidt.
Arktura’s acoustics can reduce excess noise in crowded, busy areas such as study halls. Communal areas where students congregate can lead to distracting sound levels without proper acoustic attenuation.
Grand Rapids Community College created a more serene space for its students with the assistance of Atmosphera® Rise acoustic baffles. Rise’s ceiling baffles form a faceted series of geometric planes; their sharp angles keep your eye engaged as they cut back and forth.
“Suny Cobleskill University” Cobleskill, NY, Hamlin Design Group. Photo by Nicole McKasty-Stagg.
Food halls and cafeterias can be hotbeds of distracting noise without proper acoustics. Between conversations and eating happening around you, these large spaces call out for attenuation.
These SoftGrid® Skyline modules at Suny Cobleskill University are designed to look like an inverted skyline as if a city were living on your ceiling. SkyLine is made from our Soft Sound® material, so you get acoustic comfort in a wide array of colorful finishes.
“University of Illinois” Chicago, IL, Legat Architects.
We have covered acoustic coverage in classrooms, food halls, study areas, and more, but hallways shouldn’t be overlooked. These long, narrow walkways can be a cacophony of sound as students shuffle from class to class.
The University of Illinois solved this issue by installing a series of SoundEdge® acoustic baffles. The baffles’ even spacing allows third-party lighting to be installed between the modules, providing a double dose of function to this busy hallway.
“University of Kentucky – The Cornerstone” Lexington, KY, SCB Architects. Photo by Chris Phebus.
Beyond lecture halls and classrooms, students and faculty need somewhere to relax. Acoustics are ideal for recreation centers, where gathering students, chatter, and other activities can lead to high noise levels.
The Cornerstone at the University of Kentucky consists of 23,000 square feet of mixed-use space to further enhance UK’s campus. This communal space is made all the more tranquil thanks to SoundEdge® baffles throughout the space.
Creating quiet, distraction-free environments in educational settings is beneficial and crucial for empowering students to thrive and reach their full potential. Educational institutions can significantly enhance student performance and academic success by implementing practical solutions to improve sound quality in classrooms, libraries, and other learning spaces.
Investing in acoustics is an investment in our students’ future. From acoustic ceiling systems to Soft Sound® backers for perforated panel systems, Arktura can elevate any space while reducing distracting noise levels.
Contact your local rep to learn more about bringing Arktura’s performative acoustics to your next educational project.
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