Course Code: AAMC-1D
Course Duration: 1 day (8 hours, 9 AM to 5 PM)
Location: Sea Star Base, Galveston, Texas
Course Description:
The Architectural Acoustics Masterclass is an intensive one-day course tailored for architects, building scientists, engineers, and built environment enthusiasts. Set in the inspiring location of Sea Star Base, Galveston, TX, this masterclass focuses on the pivotal aspects of architectural acoustics, guiding participants through the essential principles of sound behavior, management techniques, and design applications in built environments. The course is compact yet comprehensive, providing insights into managing sound insulation, specifying glazing for acoustic control, and manipulating reverberation times to enhance the aural comfort in architectural spaces.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of the masterclass, participants will be able to:
1. Grasp the fundamentals of acoustics and their application in architectural design.
2. Identify and address common acoustic challenges in building envelopes and interiors.
3. Formulate effective sound insulation strategies for facades and other building elements.
4. Specify glazing requirements that balance acoustic performance with design and energy considerations.
5. Understand the methods to measure and manage reverberation time for optimal sound quality.
6. Examine case studies to understand the practical implications of acoustic design decisions.
Course Tutor:
Barry Cope is the Group Managing Director of the Building Compliance Testers’ Association (BCTA) which operates certification schemes for parts of the construction industry that are required to demonstrate that they are competent to do the work they do.
Barry studied engineering and high performance manufacturing at Oxford Instruments Analytical before moving into the construction industry with BM TRADA (now Element) in 2007. Barry spent several years conducting testing and consultancy on buildings for air tightness testing before training in acoustics, designing and building two of only a handful of acoustic sound insulation suites in the UK. Barry moved on to be a Technical Manager at Site Sound Ltd in 2014 before joining BCTA as the General Manager in 2015.
Barry is passionate about the construction industry, conducting and overseeing training of many trades and parts of the construction industry, becoming an industry advocate for compliance and integrity – doing the right thing, even when nobody is watching.
Masterclass Schedule:
9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Introduction and Overview
– Welcome and registration
– Introduction to architectural acoustics
– Overview of the day’s objectives and activities
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM: Fundamentals of Sound and Acoustics
– Physics of sound: waves, frequency, and amplitude
– Human perception of sound
– Basic principles of architectural acoustics
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Coffee Break and Networking
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Sound Insulation and Facade Design
– Strategies for sound insulation in buildings
– Acoustic challenges and solutions for facades
– Interactive exercise: Identifying insulation issues and solutions
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch Break
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Glazing Specifications for Acoustic Control
– Acoustic properties of glass
– Crafting glazing specifications to maximize acoustic performance
– Case study: Glazing in high-noise environments
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Managing Reverberation Time in Architectural Spaces
– The concept of reverberation time and its importance
– Techniques to control reverberation
– Practical examples and quick calculation methods
3:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Afternoon Tea and Informal Discussion
4:00 PM – 4:45 PM: Innovative Materials and Sustainable Acoustics
– Exploring innovative materials and their acoustic benefits
– Incorporating sustainable practices in acoustic design
– Group discussion on sustainable acoustic solutions
4:45 PM – 5:00 PM: Wrap-Up and Conclusion
– Summary of key takeaways
– Q&A session
– Presentation of certificates and closing remarks
Teaching Methods:
– Expert Lectures
– Case Study Reviews
– Hands-on Exercises
– Group Discussions
– Q&A Sessions
Assessment Methods:
As this is a non-credit, professional development course, there will be no formal assessment. Participants are encouraged to engage actively and bring forward any specific questions or case studies they wish to discuss.
Pre-requisites:
None; however, a basic understanding of architectural design and terminology is advantageous for a more fruitful learning experience.
Materials Provided:
– Course booklet with key concepts and references
– Case study compendium
– Notepad and pen
– Certificate of Completion
Recommended Personal Equipment:
– Laptop or tablet (optional for note-taking and accessing digital materials)
– Calculator (for reverberation time exercises)
Catering:
Morning coffee, afternoon tea, and lunch will be provided.
Dress Code:
Business casual or comfortable attire suitable for a professional learning environment.