Acoustic Design in Architecture: Enhancing Spaces Through Sound Planning

Sound Matters: How Acoustic Design Is Reshaping Architecture

As design trends continue to prioritize occupant comfort and building performance, acoustic design is becoming a critical strategy - not just a technical layer. Whether you're working in education, cultural spaces, or commercial buildings, sound quality can directly influence how people feel, focus, and function.


In this post, we explore acoustic design in action through the Wachholz College Center, featured in Detailed podcast episode #77. We’ll also share practical ways to integrate acoustic design into your own projects, and how ARCAT tools can streamline the process from early research to final specification.

Understanding Acoustic Design in Architecture

Acoustic design focuses on how sound moves, reflects, and is absorbed within a building. It involves everything from sound isolation and material selection to spatial layout and surface finishes. The goal is to create environments that support how people use the space - enhancing clarity, reducing distractions, and promoting comfort.


Its impact goes far beyond sound quality. Acoustics affect how well we concentrate, communicate, perform, and even heal. Yet despite their importance, acoustic considerations are often pushed aside during early design, only to resurface as costly problems after occupancy.
When addressed from the start, acoustic strategies support core design goals and reduce long-term costs. Done well, they help ensure that a space not only looks good, but works the way it should.

Acoustic Design in Action: Wachholz College Center

Flathead Valley Community College’s Wachholz College Center in Kalispell, Montana, featured in episode #77 of the Detailed podcast, is a perfect example of acoustic design solving complex programmatic challenges. The 67,000-square-foot facility merges two very different uses, performing arts and athletics, under one roof.


The design challenge? Deliver superior acoustic performance and clear separation between high-energy and sound-sensitive spaces.


To solve this, the Cushing Terrell team used acoustic isolation joints and isolation pads to physically and acoustically divide the building. These engineering features made it possible to place a 1,000-seat theater and music classrooms on one side, and a gymnasium, fitness center, and wellness spaces on the other - all without sound bleed.


In the Detailed podcast, Cherise Lakeside speaks with Cushing Terrell’s David Koel and Shawn Pauly about the acoustic strategies behind the project and how close collaboration with consultants Schuler Shook and Threshold Acoustics helped bring it to life.

How to Bring Acoustic Design Into Your Next Project - With Less Friction

Whether you're designing a performing arts center, a school, or a high-traffic commercial space, integrating acoustic design early makes a difference. Here are a few ways to apply acoustic principles in your projects, and how ARCAT can help streamline the process.

1. Specify Acoustic Materials That Match Your Use Case

From wall panels and baffles to ceiling tiles and flooring systems, the right materials can help you meet performance goals without compromising aesthetics.
* On ARCAT: Explore Division 09 (Finishes) and Division 10 (Specialties) to compare acoustic panels, ceilings, and insulation options by performance, format, and material.
* Try This: Search “ceiling clouds,” “acoustic wood panels,” or “noise-reducing insulation” on ARCAT.com to find detailed specs, CAD files, and manufacturers in one place.

2. Plan for Sound Separation From the Start

Acoustic isolation is key when different spaces demand different sound environments, especially in mixed-use buildings like Wachholz.
* On ARCAT: Use SpecWizard to generate customized specs for acoustic doors, partitions, floor underlayments, and wall systems designed to reduce sound transmission.
* Spec Tip: Filter products by STC rating, application, or CSI Division to narrow down to only what's relevant for your project.

3. Consider Sound in Shared or Open Areas

Even in lobbies, corridors, and common spaces, acoustics play a role in comfort. Elements like acoustic furnishings, wall tiles, and even fabric finishes can soften reverberation and improve clarity.
* ARCAT Tip: Browse Divisions 12 (Furnishings) and 10 (Specialties) to explore products like modular acoustic furniture, wall art with sound absorption properties, and movable partitions.