Commercial Architecture June 2018 - 38

PROJECT

acoustics
in a given space can be a key factor in the selection of direct-to-deck
solutions. Systems with pendant sprinkler heads can accommodate
traditional suspended ceilings and direct-to-deck panels, but upright
sprinkler heads require a solution with a shallower system depth, such
as CertainTeed Ceilings' (Malvern, PA, certainteed.com) Ecophon
Focus B, F, or SQ.
CLOUDS & BAFFLES

Because free-hanging clouds absorb sound from both sides-direct
from the source as well as sound reflected from the deck above-
they offer the most efficient sound-absorption option. Installation
is extremely flexible, allowing clouds to be placed at varying heights,
in tiers, and even angled. They can also be installed, in addition to
full suspended ceilings, in particularly challenging spaces like open
offices. Clouds are also offered in a wide variety of colors, shapes,
and sizes, providing the freedom to work within the design aesthetic
of an existing space. CertainTeed Ceilings Ecophon Solo clouds are
available in 16 standard colors and 11 different shapes-everything
from squares and circles to triangles and hexagons.
Similarly, baffles provide double-sided absorption, but with a
Above. Direct-to-deck acoustic panels, which can be glued or screwed directly to the ceiling structure without wires or grid, are one of
the simplest ways to improve acoustics in existing spaces.
Below. Because free-hanging clouds absorb sound from both sides-direct from the source as well as sound reflected from the deck
above-they offer the most efficient sound-absorption option.

smaller overall system depth than clouds. Baffles can also keep sight
lines clear in high-ceiling areas, maintaining the very openness that
otherwise would add to the acoustic challenges.
Because clouds and baffles absorb sound from both sides, installing products equal to 40% to 60% of the square footage of the space
will bring reverberation times down to comfortable levels.
WALL PANELS

Wall panels excel in smaller spaces with reflective walls such as conference rooms. Academic settings including libraries and classrooms
are prime candidates in that they often already have full suspended
ceilings.
The design flexibility of wall panels has improved tremendously in
recent years. Beyond simple 4- x 8-ft. panels, circles, squares, and rectangles in a variety of sizes and colors are now available. Ecophon
Akusto One SQ wall panels can be custom printed, disguising the
acoustic performance behind photos or artwork.
Where to begin? There are always multiple paths to solving noise
problems in an existing space, but there's no need to jump to the most
elaborate or disruptive. It's surprising how much can be accomplished
with relatively simple fixes. Rather than dive in with extreme measures, start small with the least-disruptive or invasive options. If that's
not enough, move on to the next solution. Whether it's a few simple
wall panels, a field of direct-to-deck panels, or a collection of clouds,
the right solution for the space is out there. CA
grid, are one of the simplest ways to improve acoustics in existing
spaces. Their versatility and ease of installation maximize sound absorption while minimizing disruption to occupants.
Because of their minimum overall system depth, they can be
attached to low ceilings or even angled ceilings. Full-coverage installation can mimic the clean look of a traditional drywall ceiling while

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providing the acoustic benefits of a suspended ceiling. They can also
be installed in fields or as single panels. With absorption levels similar

Circle 3 on the Reader Service Card.

to standard suspended-ceiling panels, direct-to-deck solutions should

Learn more about acoustic solutions.

be installed to cover as much of the ceiling area as possible.
Beyond ceiling height, the fire protection and suppression system
38

COMMERCI A L A RCHI T EC T URE

JUNE 2018

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Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Commercial Architecture June 2018