The new Elementary School Library at the Western Academy of Beijing was designed as a vibrant, open learning environment combining reading areas, informal seating, counselling rooms, and teachers’ spaces. Its architecture features double-height volumes, a pitched roof, and open connections between levels, creating a visually engaging space but also a challenging acoustic context.
The main challenge was to ensure acoustic comfort and speech clarity within a space used simultaneously for quiet reading, group activities, and circulation. Sound needed to be controlled without compromising openness, daylight, or the architectural character of the library. At the same time, confidentiality had to be guaranteed in enclosed areas such as counselling rooms and staff spaces, located adjacent to noisier zones.
Delhom Acoustics was appointed to provide acoustic design consultancy from the early design phase through construction and final acceptance.
We first defined acoustic objectives adapted to each function, focusing on reverberation control, speech intelligibility, background noise levels, and sound insulation between sensitive spaces. Based on room volumes, geometries, and interior layouts, we developed acoustic models to predict sound behaviour and guide design decisions.
Our work included the selection and positioning of acoustic ceiling systems and wall treatments, carefully integrated into the interior design to maintain the visual intent of the project. We also reviewed partitions and construction details to ensure appropriate insulation between the library, counselling rooms, and teachers’ lounge.
During construction, we provided technical assistance and document reviews, verifying that materials and assemblies met the acoustic specifications. The mission concluded with on-site acoustic measurements, allowing performance to be checked against the defined targets and confirming the effectiveness of the implemented solutions.
The completed library offers a balanced acoustic environment where sound supports learning rather than disrupting it. Reverberation is controlled in the large open volumes, allowing speech to remain clear and activities to coexist comfortably. Enclosed spaces achieve the required level of acoustic privacy, supporting focused work and confidential conversations.
By integrating acoustics early and working closely with the architect and client, the project delivers a library that feels calm, welcoming, and adaptable, fully aligned with the educational values of the Western Academy of Beijing.
