Acoustics for Old and New Multi-Family Residences (HSW, 1.5 CEU)
Whether a new luxury high-rise, a century-old textile mill conversion, or a market-rate apartment building, every multi-family residential development brings a collection of acoustical challenges. Case studies will focus on sound isolation between dwelling units, around public and service areas, and at mechanical spaces. It is not surprising that as housing prices have gone up, so have people’s expectations for peace and quiet, along with their demands for reasonable levels of privacy. Neighbors are noisier than ever before, blasting action film soundtracks over multi-channel home entertainment systems while exercising on home gym equipment late at night. And, lighter building constructions are saving money, but make acoustical isolation more difficult. Based on practical examples, we will look at cost-effective ways to address the acoustical challenges presented in today’s multi-unit residences.