Improving acoustics in schools
For the Mundus College in Amsterdam (part of Esprit Onderwijsstichting), we were allowed to contribute ideas for a solution to echo issues in two school corridors. The disturbance was significant: the sound of passing students and teachers echoed into adjacent classrooms. Concentration during lessons and exams became therefore difficult.
The challenge
On behalf of EASYfelt, acoustic consultant Robbert te Loeke from our sister company EASY Noise Control visited for on-site advice with a reverberation time measurement. It quickly became apparent that the reverberation time was quite high, averaging even 3.5 seconds. Additionally, the space itself posed a challenge: a hall with two different heights, ranging from 2.7 to over 7.5 meters.
The solution
After Robbert mapped everything out, a consultation with the Mundus College examined the current situation. Subsequently, the desired acoustic outcome was determined. Then, both aesthetic and practical solutions suitable for the context were considered. For the lower part of the hall, where students can touch the material, an impact-resistant solution was chosen: white PA50 panels that nicely match the white ceiling.
In the upper part of the hall, the client desired ceiling circles. Therefore, a combination of PET felt circles and upholstered variants in various colours and sizes was chosen. This resulted in a lively and dynamic ceiling display. The upholstered circles were supplied through sister company EASY Noise Control, as well as EASYfelt, part of the Earendel Group.
The result
A vibrant arrangement of ceiling circles in the upper part of the hall and a sleek, white acoustic ceiling in the lower section. The client is very satisfied with the final result and notices a clear difference in echo. The order has now also been received to equip the second hall with impact-resistant PA50 panels, so that calm is restored in that space as well.
