Sustainable Acoustics

An overview of acoustic principles and ways in which sustainable design can be applied to acoustics to extend green design concepts.

Acoustics is a critical component in providing a comfortable listening environment for users and is recognized by several building rating systems for sustainability and health including LEED, WELL, Fitwel, and Passive House. We will overview acoustic principles and various ways in which sustainable design can be applied to acoustics to extend green design concepts. We will discuss the ABCs of architectural acoustics and the importance of proper acoustic design to the comfort and wellness of occupants across different types of building uses. We will discuss design strategies to help achieve the acoustics requirements of various building rating systems throughout the design and construction process. We will discuss synergies of acoustical design with other green building strategies – such as environmentally friendly materials, smarter use of energy, water, and material resources, and improved indoor environmental conditions – and potential tradeoffs.

Earn 2 LU/HSW units

This course is taught by Ben Markham, LEED AP, Director of Architectural Acoustics Group at Acentech.

Benjamin Markham brings a passion for acoustics to his role as principal consultant and director of Acentech’s Architectural Acoustics group. He has over 20 years of experience in project leadership and consulting management of architectural acoustics design related to performance spaces and commercial, residential, and civic facilities. Ben consults on various aspects of acoustical design, utilizing computer modeling and auralizations to simulate acoustic environments. His practice includes room acoustics, sound isolation, mechanical systems noise and vibration mitigation, and environmental noise control. He is a frequent visiting lecturer at several architectural schools and universities including MIT, Cornell University, and Harvard University.

An industry thought leader, he frequently lectures, speaks, and writes on topics related to building acoustics design, sound isolation, and noise control. He was the primary author of the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Design Guide 30: Sound Isolation and Noise Control in Steel Buildings, and authored numerous articles published by design and construction media and technical journals.

Background photo above by Ren Ran on Unsplash.