Given today's focus on health and wellness, it seems prudent to revisit our acoustical lexicon with the intention of developing deeper awareness of the differences between background sound and noise, as well as their implications for our experience within facilities. Refining our understanding of 'noise' and 'sound,' as well as terms such as 'silence' and 'quiet,' allows for a more nuanced discussion of occupants’ needs and expectations, and fosters opportunities to improve building design practices.

Learning Objectives

  • Establish a common language when discussing acoustical issues.
  • Explain the role minimum background sounds plays in human perception of acoustics.
  • Capitalize on the ways in which sound masking can be used as an architectural design tool.
  • Address concerns regarding sound masking and the Lombard effect.

Pre-Requisite: None.