A library transformed with modern acoustics
Architect: Burling Brown Architects
Builder: Altran
Categories: Education
Account Manager: Vaughan Penny
Photographer: Murray Rix
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Beautiful acoustics enhance student learning and wellbeing
The project
Whilst libraries are traditionally seen as quiet spaces, modern school libraries host a much wider range of activities, some of them noisy. Autex Acoustics® wall and ceiling products have transformed this college library into a practical and highly desirable space for individuals and groups.
At the newly refurbished library in the Cecile Ryan Centre at St Andrews Lutheran College, Queensland, acoustic wall and ceiling panels from Autex Acoustics bring quiet and comfort to a large, multi-use learning space.
Head of Library Services, Barbara Kristo, explains: “The library is the heart of the school. Our goal was to transform it into an innovative learning environment that fosters creativity, collaboration and critical thinking. Students were instrumental in shaping the redesign vision. They saw the need for various zones that accommodate both interactive, social activities and quiet, focused study.”
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Acoustic Timber™ panels in Eucalyptus
Acoustic Timber™ panels in Eucalyptus
Additional info
Lightweight panels are simple to install
The high, faceted ceiling, whilst providing a grand and inviting space, came with its acoustic challenges.
“We considered re-perforating the existing plasterboard ceiling,” says Simon, “but this wouldn’t have given us a high enough NRC rating. We also didn’t want to add load to the structure – and all the cost and time implications of that – which made perforated timber-veneer panels out of the question.”
The lightweight Acoustic Timber enabled the designers and builders to retain the ceiling’s sloping polygon shapes and light fixings without complex installation.
“The panels were easy to cut and fit on site, installed using adhesive, with no screw fixing required. They added no undue weight or stress, and also satisfied the stringent fire-rating requirements.”
Collaborating for innovative acoustic solutions
With a long history of collaboration with Autex Acoustics, Burling Brown incorporated acoustics into every nook and cranny to maximise sound absorption. The result is a study and collaboration space where students and staff can perform at their best.
“For example,” explains Simon, “we co-developed a batten screen wall with Vaughan Penny [Autex Acoustics Queensland Specification Manager]. I sent Vaughan a sketch for the screen between a reading lounge and staff work area, which needed both separation and visual connection. Autex worked through the details to maintain the integrity of the design whilst providing something that was easy to construct.”
For further colour, comfort and sound absorption, Composition wall covering is used around the edges of the space. “Triangle-shaped niches with booth seating are lined with Composition to create quiet study corners. It’s pinnable and velcro receptive, so staff can hang artworks and resources. Composition is used elsewhere in black – behind TV screens and bookshelf areas, for instance.”
Creating spaces where students can flourish
“Thanks to the creativity and expertise of Burling Brown and Autex Acoustics, we have effectively addressed noise control, a previously major issue in our library,” notes Barbara Kristo, Head of Library Services at St Andrews Lutheran College in Queensland. “The feedback from students and staff has been overwhelmingly positive. The transformation has reinvented the library as a dynamic hub of student learning and wellbeing.”
Project Team
It's all about people
