Focus on Acoustics: High-Rise Buildings
August 1, 2007
Determining proper acoustics for high-rise buildings involves: the intention of the space, speech privacy, background noise and sound masking. The goal is to select acoustical finishes that will meet the visions of the owner and the architect while providing a
Project Highlight: San Jose Cambrian Branch Library
February 1, 2007
Libraries now days are competing with large bookstores and the Cambrian Branch has the means to be a contender. San Jose’s new library, designed by Anderson Brulé Architects, opened in November. The LEED certified building is 28,000 sq. ft. and
Sound Myth-Understandings
February 1, 2007
A myth is a story handed down through history, often orally, that explains the unknown. In some cases, we have heard these myths so often we never question their veracity. The word itself comes from the Greek, “mythos” which meant
Students to Have Access to New Technology for Film, Music and Dance
October 1, 2006
The Performing Arts Facility on the De Anza Community College campus in San Jose, CA is under construction. The building is designed as a multi-use facility serving as classroom space, an auditorium, exhibition area and lobby. Established in 1967, De
Travel Advisory for Sound
October 1, 2006
Sound travels on vibrating air molecules. To reduce the sound that is transmitted from room to room, Acoustical Consultants often specify resilient assemblies. These assemblies are placed inside the wall or ceiling–attached to the building frame–to reduce sound vibrations. There
Ceiling-mounted Microphones
April 1, 2006
When you need to hear clear speech in a large room and table microphones are not an option, consider Tandberg Audio Science ceiling-mounted microphones. Speech intelligibility is paramount for meeting areas, classrooms—any large space where the sound must be amplified
Sound Health
April 1, 2006
Music can reduce stress, enhance relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and evoke an emotional response. A fast, upbeat tune gets your pulse racing; a leisurely one can slow down the pace. Hospitals are inevitably places that produce stress. Patients and family
The Plaza Apartments – Low Income doesn’t mean Low Design Standard
February 1, 2006
The Plaza Apartments, located in San Francisco, CA has sharp lines and a colorful facade that boasts solar panels, recycled building materials, bamboo floors, paneling made with recycled wood products and plenty of natural light and ventilation. Designed by Leddy
Dial It Down – Earbuds Can Cause Hearing Loss
February 1, 2006
Mom was right, again. “Turn down that god awful music,” sound familiar? Nowadays that truism should come with the caveat, “and wear the right earbuds, dear.” We’ve heard for years that when a person is exposed to high sound levels
The San Francisco GSA Federal Building – Green Acoustic Design Considerations
December 1, 2005
Incorporating a modern glass facade, the new GSA Federal Building in San Francisco will be a 600,000 square foot building 240 feet high, 120 feet long, but just 60 feet wide. Among the many green features, this narrow, 18-story glass