Mastering Material Selection for Acoustic Design – Understanding the Essential Factors: Performance, Aesthetics & Sustainability

Today’s session focuses on an aspect of architectural design that directly shapes how people experience a space: interior acoustics. Beyond visual impact, your role as architects, designers and specifiers is to create spaces that support clear communication, minimise distraction and promote occupant wellbeing. Effective interior acoustic design is not just about sound control; it’s about optimising the way a space performs for its intended use.

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Explain the importance of interior acoustics and the core principles that underpin effective acoustic performance.
• Evaluate different material types, including wood-based products, fibre cement and metal, for their acoustic, aesthetic and environmental attributes.
• Interpret fire performance ratings and compliance pathways relevant to acoustic wall and ceiling linings.
• Specify wall and ceiling systems that meet acoustic targets while supporting safety, sustainability, and constructability.

AACA NSCA Competency Standards related to this session:

PC24 PROJECT INITIATION AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
PC28 PROJECT INITIATION AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
PC31 PROJECT INITIATION AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
PC33 PROJECT INITIATION AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN

Speaker

Shuria Agrawaal – Senior Architectural & Design Consultant, Keystone Linings