The Book of Acoustics

The handbook for Architects and Interior Designers who want to create beautiful spaces that makes people feel happier, healthier and more productive.

In The Book of Acoustics you’ll learn the fundamentals of sound control and everything you need to know to start feeling more confident working with acoustic treatments in your design projects. When it comes down to it, it really is as simple as making people happy – whether they’re at work, school or conversing with friends over dinner.

1.1 What is sound?
1.2 Common sound wave behaviour in indoor spaces
1.3 Sound that lingers
1.4 The ABCDs of sound control
– Summary of chapter 1.0

2.1 Start here
2.2 What to measure
2.2.1 Reverberation time
2.2.2 Speech intelligibility
2.2.3 Sound levels
2.2.4 Sound absorption
– Summary of chapter 2.0

3.1 The art of shaping the acoustic environment
3.2 Treatment options
3.2.1 Sound absorbers
3.2.2 Sound blockers
3.2.3 Sound maskers
3.2.4 Sound diffusers
3.3 Important acoustical treatment ratings
– Summary of chapter 3.0

4.1 Treatment placement
4.2 Placement by room shape
4.3 How much material should you use?
– Summary of chapter 4.0

5.1 Why should people care about their acoustic environment?
5.2 Health & Wellbeing
5.3 Focus & Productivity
5.4 Listening & Learning
5.5 Safety & Security
– Summary of chapter 5.0

6.0 The history of Acoustics

7.1 Form vs. Function
7.2 6 rules for excellent acoustic design
7.3 Aural aesthetics
7.4 The step by step process for Designing with acoustics
7.5 Budget considerations
7.6 The acoustic design toolbox
– Summary of chapter 7.0

8.1 Acoustic design must follow space function
8.2 Workplaces
8.3 Education
8.4 Healthcare
8.5 Dining rooms
– Summary of chapter 8.0

9.1 Acoustic design do’s and don’ts
9.2 Quick guide to solving common problems
9.3 Does this space need treatment?

10.0 Glossary of acoustic terms
11.0 Reference list
12.0 About the publisher