This presentation outlines fundamental principles of acoustics in buildings: the basics of sound waves, basics of human perception of sound, how sound behaves inside versus outside, the acoustic properties of building materials, reverberation, how to isolate sound between different spaces, the difference between absorbing and blocking sound, and the basics of building mechanical system noise and vibration control. We will also touch on the role of acoustic modeling in current design practice. Specific project examples and “stories from the field,” including work done at the Chapman Construction Conference Center itself, will illustrate each of the main concepts, along with several live and interactive demonstrations during the seminar.
Presented by: Benjamin Markham, Principal Consultant and Director of Architectural Acoustics at Acentech
As an acoustician, he is involved in a variety of projects focusing on performance spaces, corporate commercial institutions, and civic facilities. His wide spectrum of experience includes work with some of the most forward-thinking organizations within their respective areas of focus, including the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Museum of Fine Arts, TripAdvisor, and the United States Institute of Peace. Part of his expertise stems from his ability to anticipate the acoustic needs of spaces without sacrificing the aesthetic goals of clients. Ben is also a visiting lecturer for the School of Architecture at MIT, the Cornell University College of Architecture, Art, and Planning, and Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design.