Assuming an engineering mindset in acoustical design: Helping clients get the most for their money

Acoustical design for performance spaces is generally considered to be both an art and a science. Part of the science involves assuming an engineering mindset when deciding where to draw the line with respect to criteria for room acoustics, sound isolation, HVAC noise control, and other issues. When does sound from the outside truly become intrusive? How quiet is quiet enough when it comes to HVAC noise? Renovation projects often impose practical constraints that preclude aiming for extreme degrees of sound isolation or HVAC noise control. Even well-funded new construction projects sometimes require careful consideration of how to expend project resources to best effect. This paper will explore the authors' experiences making such decisions on a range of projects involving new construction (Las Vegas’ Smith Center for the Performing Arts), historic restoration (Cincinnati Music Hall), adaptive re-use (Milwaukee’s Bradley Symphony Center), and substantial reconstruction (David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center).