Custom Ceiling Design  

Photo by Jasper Sanidad. “1111 Broadway” Oakland, CA, Rios Clementi Hale Studios

Ceilings can provide a significant design element when they are customized to suit an interior space for an enhanced experience.

The design of building interiors is often focused on walls, floors, and furnishings perhaps because of a perception that these are where people interact most with the indoor environment. However, just as we experience a beautiful sky outdoors, the design of a ceiling indoors can have a significant impact on the look, feel, and character of an interior space. This happens because people react to more than just the visual aspects of a ceiling, which, while important, belies the other ways we interact and perceive spaces. This includes the impact of a ceiling on acoustics in a space, on achieving a sense of either motion or stillness or creating a benign or dramatic experience. This course covers many of these different aspects of ceiling design and the ways that they can be customized to suit many different design goals in all types of buildings.

CEILING SYSTEMS AS PART OF INTERIOR DESIGN

Ceilings in commercial and institutional buildings don’t need to be boring. For a lot of years, the norm has been to assume the use of a suspended ceiling with a rectilinear grid and white acoustical tile. Manufacturers have offered some innovations over time, but they have mostly been two-dimensional solutions, nonetheless. More recently, some three-dimensional options have emerged with a variety of aesthetic and performance features and capabilities. As the appeal for high-performance, high-visual impact ceilings has grown, and the costs have become more competitive, there are more options for ceilings to be part of an overall interior design scheme than ever before.

One current aspect of ceiling design is that it can be customized to suit the specific needs of a project. Systems are available that use standardized components to create custom appearances as well as the possibility of creating custom pieces from some manufacturers. In so doing, these advanced ceiling systems provide a full range of features and capabilities as part of the overall design of spaces and rooms. Among the possibilities, the following is a representative list:

• Acoustics: Suspended ceilings have always been a reliable means to provide acoustic comfort for people in different conditions and in all building types. The key to a successful acoustical design is to select and design a ceiling system that has the best acoustical properties for a particular space. Not all conditions are the same, so an improper selection or design can provide disappointing or unwelcome results.
• Visuals: Ceilings, custom or otherwise, can be designed not only for pure aesthetic appearance but also to induce occupant health and well-being. This can be achieved through color and pattern selection creating spaces that promote relaxation and reduce stress.
• Biophilia: Ceilings can be customized to incorporate three-dimensional organic shapes inspired by nature. This reflection or mimicry of nature can be achieved through shapes, colors, and patterns of ceiling components. Such an approach can be specific to particular rooms or part of an overall building design.
• Lighting: The incorporation of integrated lighting into ceilings has been a mainstay of suspended ceiling design and layout. Customized ceiling designs can also incorporate customized lighting options, particularly with alternatives to standard lay-in lighting fixtures.

By paying attention to these different aspects of ceiling design, building interiors can be enhanced for people experiencing a space, address multiple human senses, and contribute to health and wellness.

Photo: Jenn Verrier

Customized ceilings can creatively enhance the experience of being in an interior space. Project: Neustar; Location: Reston, Virginia; Architect: HKS Architects

ACOUSTIC COMFORT FROM CEILINGS

As noted, one of the primary functions that ceilings provide in many situations is acoustical control for the comfort and benefit of those who are in the rooms and spaces of a building. In order to understand some of the ways in which ceilings can enhance or detract from acoustical performance, the following principles are presented as a basis for good design.

Acoustical Energy

Sound is energy that radiates out from a source, just like heat and light are radiative energy. Understanding how to direct, restrict, or otherwise control sound is similar to how we do the same with other types of energy.

In the case of interior acoustics, design strategies focus on what happens when sound waves travel into or through a space and meet a surface such as a ceiling. The particular effect that surface will have on the emitted sound waves will depend directly on the acoustic characteristics of the material encountered. All materials, however, will exhibit differing levels of the same three actions:

• Reflection: Some percentage of the sound will bounce off of the surface and be reflected back into the space. If the material is highly reflective, it will make this condition severe causing echoes or seemingly intensified sound levels. While this might be desirable in some situations, it is not common for most commercial and institutional settings.
• Absorption: When ceiling materials are softer and porous, they are very good at absorbing sound waves and dissipating the energy. This has the effect of softening the sound and reducing echoes, making it easier to understand conversation and other sounds.
• Transmittance: When some of the sound energy is not reflected or absorbed by a ceiling, it is directly transmitted through the ceiling material or the assembly to the other side. This means that people in adjacent spaces may hear what is going on “next door” or on a floor above or below the source of the transmitted sound.

Note that these three characteristics of sound are true for all conditions and with all materials. We focus our attention only on ceilings here.

Images courtesy of Arktura

In order to predict and control acoustic performance in buildings, many different aspects of sound need to be taken into account.

Acoustical Performance

Understanding the basic ways that sound behaves when it encounters different materials or assemblies is the starting point. The next logical question is how much of each occurs. By using standard methods of measuring or testing materials and assemblies, their acoustical properties can be quantified. This information can be used to help control, direct, or reduce the sound experienced in well-designed spaces. The common means to measure sound reflectance, absorption, and transmission are as follows:

• Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC): Individual materials can be formally tested according to ASTM C423 “Standard Test Method for Sound Absorption and Sound Absorption Coefficients by the Reverberation Room Method.” This standard is used to measure the rate of sound absorption of materials on a scale of zero to one. As such, NRC ratings of a material are commonly viewed as a percentage. For example, an NRC of 0.75 means 75% of the sound energy that strikes a tested material is absorbed instead of being reflected or transmitted.
• NRC vs. Sound Absorption Average (SAA): The NRC rating is the average of the sound absorption coefficients of four specific sound frequencies: 250, 500, 1000, and 2000hz.By contrast, the Sound Absorption Average (SAA) rating is the average of the sound absorption coefficients of an octave range that includes 12 different frequencies between 200 and 2500 Hz, thus providing a more complete understanding of sound performance. In both the NRC and the SAA tests, the scale of results goes from 0 (perfect reflection/ no absorption) to 1 (perfect absorption/ no reflection). This scale is used to measure the effectiveness of ceiling tiles, baffles, and other acoustic design elements. Depending on the test setup, some results can exceed 1. When acoustical ceiling products are tested, they generally are designed to achieve very high NRC and/or SAA ratings. However, those results will vary based on the circumstances of how it is used, the thickness and makeup of the materials, and variations between products.
• Sabin: When acoustic materials are placed to hang down vertically in a space instead of horizontally on a ceiling, then a different sound measurement is needed. In this case, a Sabin is used as the measure of the total sound absorption provided by an individual sound absorber such as a ceiling baffle when installed within an architectural space. Absorption in Sabin is also measured according to ASTM C423. The number of Sabin per unit is approximately equal to the total surface area of the unit (in square feet) that is exposed to sound, multiplied by the measured absorption coefficient of the material. Some ceiling products are ideal for this type of application and commonly show test results with a very high absorption coefficient and Sabin ratings.
• Sound Transmission Class (STC): This is a standard test rating that is often provided by manufacturers as a means for designers to select appropriate materials for sound transmittance in buildings. Essentially, the STC rating is a way to determine how much sound (measured in decibels) is reduced as it passes through a material or assembly. The higher the STC rating, the more sound that does not transmit. For most building conditions, an STC rating on the order of 40 – 45 is appropriate for most normal conditions but ranges between 35 and 55 are also common. For ceiling design, the STC rating should be used to measure the sound that is being transmitted through the entire ceiling assembly, not just an individual ceiling product.

When using these principles and tests to evaluate materials or products, it’s important to recognize that test results such as an NRC or Sabin number for a product aren’t the whole story. Rather, the type of building space, its size, its use, and the intended impact on people all need to be considered. Good acoustic design uses these numbers (derived in a laboratory setting) and translates them into a design that is applicable and appropriate to a specific space in a specific project. That means that design professionals need to be sure that the right test or standard is being used so it is relevant to their building situation. Whenever possible, it is best to work with a ceiling manufacturer who can be transparent about test results and real-world performance. Identifying someone who can work with the design team to provide this level of transparency can be the best way to achieve the intended acoustical results. Alternatively, it will be incumbent on the architect or other design professionals to refer to true NRC test documents, acoustical data, blogs, and/or independent research.

Photos: Anton Grassl

The appropriate use of color and natural lighting in ceiling design can enhance a space to make it inviting and appealing. Project: Confidential Biotech Company Location: Boston; Architect: Perkins&Will

INTERIOR ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY

Building interiors, including ceilings, create indoor environments that can have notable impacts on people through multiple means. Beyond good acoustics and experiences of sound, interior environmental quality is impacted by the following aspects of design as well:

Soundscaping

Sometimes, instead of eliminating or reducing sound in a space, there can be the deliberate intention to introduce some pleasant sounds into the space through electronic or other means. It can be as simple as some appropriate background music or more complex creations of “white noise” to mask other sounds and create a greater sense of privacy. Overall, soundscaping can be used to create a tranquil, peaceful, and ordered environment. This includes incorporating sound-absorbing materials in the ceiling to direct and control the sound being added, as well as to reduce noise pollution. In order to be most effective, designers should align the soundscape with the landscape or design intent of the building to create a cohesive experience.

Color Psychology

Color is a fundamental aspect of the visual and sensual experience of any building interior. Working with color is more than an aesthetic exercise, however, since it has direct connections to the psychological and emotional aspects of people. Different colors can affect mood and stress levels. For example, blue and green hues are often associated with calmness and relaxation, while red and yellow can be stimulating. Recognizing these impacts, different colors can be incorporated into different areas of a building to create a different feel in each space while maintaining relevance to the overall building design. By understanding both the theoretical and practical aspects of using color in this manner, the health and welfare of people can be improved.

When creating customized ceiling designs, some fundamental aspects of color theory can be applied such as the use of a color wheel to define complementary or disparate colors. The ceiling colors can be coordinated or contrasted with other colors in the space to create a final overall look. Keep in mind, though, that since color is basically based on light striking a surface, different types of electrical or natural lighting can have as much of an impact on the perceived color as the material itself.

Natural Light

Incorporating natural daylight into buildings is a fundamental yet sometimes challenging design issue. At the most basic level, sunlight provides natural lighting and a connection to the outdoors for the people inside the building. However, simply letting sunlight into a building means that the light level and quality can largely be uncontrolled – the building receives whatever the sun and sky provide. More sophisticated approaches focus on intentional, controlled daylighting including the locations of the light in the building, the intensity or amount of light, the color properties of the light, and the ability to disperse or diffuse the light so as to control glare.

A frequently referenced resource, particularly for government or institutional buildings is the Whole Building Design Guide. It discusses and defines daylighting for buildings of our era this way: “Daylighting is the controlled admission of natural light, direct sunlight, and diffused sky light into a building to reduce electric lighting and save energy.” It is noteworthy that it distinguishes natural light from direct sunlight and from diffused sky light. Each of these is indicative of different types of light quality. Regarding the benefits of daylighting, they cite: “By providing a direct link to the dynamic and perpetually evolving patterns of outdoor illumination, daylighting helps create a visually stimulating and productive environment for building occupants, while reducing as much as one-third of total building energy costs.” It is also commonly held that natural light in interior spaces helps to reduce stress and improve mood. All of this speaks to both the human benefits of natural light and to the economical and energy-efficient operation of the building itself.

Based on these benefits, many architects seek to incorporate appropriately sized skylights, clerestories, roof monitors, or other means to bring in natural light through a ceiling and into an occupied space. In many cases, this is possible in single-story spaces or upper levels. The key becomes controlling the light for quality, lack of glare, etc. In that case, the use of custom ceiling systems with vertical baffles, light-reflecting materials, or even translucent panels can all be incorporated to achieve the benefits of natural light while avoiding potential unwanted issues. For building spaces that don’t have access to a roof (i.e., multi-story buildings) there are some innovative strategies being used to mimic daylight by using LED lighting that is color-controlled to match the coloration of natural sunlight. Such lighting fixtures can be integrated into a ceiling and create the look and feel of natural lighting, with the same potential benefits to people. For particularly effective solutions, some designs can use a designed pattern of smaller spot lighting shining on ceiling elements designed to look like daylight hitting the leaves of a tree or other features. The overall effect is the creation of an indoor environment with a naturally appearing canopy above with streams of filtered light coming through.

Biophilic Design

A growing interior design trend that has been directly related to human health and welfare is the use of biophilia in buildings. Defined literally as a love of living things or a love of nature, biophilic design is a concept focused on increasing occupant connectivity to the natural environment in creative ways. Theorists argue that this approach taps into the hard wiring of human beings who, over the span of history, have developed an affinity for the life-supporting aspects of the natural world. In a post-pandemic era, biophilia has received more attention as a means to help people reconnect with nature and influence their general sense of well-being. Independent researchers have long been aware of the health and wellness benefits of such features in many different building environments.

When direct links to the outside aren’t practical or feasible, then there is another approach to integrating nature into buildings. In these cases, selecting products and systems that emulate nature through pattern selection, color, shape, and texture can be very effective. Designers can review examples of natural settings and then create a design solution for products that mimic the natural. This includes colors at the very basic level but can also emulate natural shapes to represent elements of landscaping, foliage, forest, or even water features.

Such large-scale, biophilic features can be incorporated into an overall interior design strategy through a customized ceiling and/or wall design. The use of three-dimensional baffles or other ceiling elements can be formed and fashioned to create the desired biophilic shapes. They can also be colored in a varied and natural way to emulate the condition that they are aiming to mimic. These patterns and design concepts can be used on the walls too, to create a fully immersive environment.

Photos courtesy of Armstrong World Industries

Customized ceilings can mimic nature for biophilic effects while still providing very good acoustical and lighting performance. Project: North Bend Elementary Location: Humble, Texas; Architect: PBK Architects

DESIGN INTEGRATION

While our focus has been on ceilings, it is always good to pull back and look at the bigger picture of the building design. Whatever ceiling system is being considered needs to be evaluated on the basis of its contributions to the overall design intent and functional needs. Since many different choices of products are available, along with custom design and fabrication options, designers can choose from a wide array of components and systems to find the best ones for a given project.

When putting a ceiling system design together, keep in mind that the challenge is often not just acoustics or just lighting, or just biophilia, etc. Rather, the design task is to blend all of those needs into one solution that is specifically tailored for the specific spaces and user circumstances of the spaces being designed. This is where custom ceiling designs can help architects and designers excel. By their nature, custom ceiling systems can achieve sought-after integration by using parts and pieces in the colors, textures, shapes, and patterns specifically needed. Each can be selected or designed according to the project goals of the system and the space in all of the ways discussed thus far. For example, integrated lighting can be combined into acoustical ceiling clouds; easy-to-install solutions can have custom biophilic looks; or lighting can be integrated across the entire ceiling in order to round out the experience and meet functional requirements.

CEILINGS AND GREEN BUILDING DESIGN

When custom-suspended ceilings are incorporated into a building design or renovation, there are several contributions that may be made using LEED criteria due to their inherent material make-up, the way that they are used, and general characteristics. These can include the following.

Photo: Costea Photo

Ceilings can be selected based on their ability to contribute to green building rating systems through material content, lighting qualities, and indoor environmental quality. Project: CMM; Location: Woodland Hills, California; Architect: ENV

Photo: Chris West

Properly specifying complete custom ceiling solutions is the key to successful performance and appearance. Project: Seattle Convention Center Summit Building; Location: Seattle; Architect: LMN Architects.

Optimizing Energy Use

Energy performance in a building is usually directly related to two building energy systems – lighting and HVAC. Ceilings can be a key component in both of these. Energy-efficient lighting can be integrated into the ceiling design, so it provides the needed level of light with a minimum requirement for electricity. Using a ceiling design that allows for integrating skylights means that the use of electricity for lighting is further diminished. The size, shape, and color of the ceiling components themselves can help with reflecting light, whether electrical or natural, thus maximizing the lighting that is available and controlling energy use. Similar efficiencies can be obtained when HVAC diffusers, grilles, and intakes are incorporated into ceiling designs. The spacing, location, and sizing of these components can be integrated into a ceiling design so that the efficiency of the total system they are connected to is optimized without negative impacts on performance.

Materials and Resources

When looking at a life cycle assessment (LCA) for a building, several traits of ceilings can help produce very favorable results. First, is its basic material makeup. The use of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) helps designers assess the materials used in ceiling products and the degree to which those materials impact the environment. For some settings, the use of Health Product Declarations (HPDs) is appropriate if there is enhanced concern about the impact of materials on human health. Second is the amount of embodied energy or embodied carbon found in the products. This aspect of building materials has received heightened attention in recent years due to the relatively high impact that construction materials can have on greenhouse gas emissions. The use of recycled content, and the ability to recycle and salvage materials help to contribute to this aspect of the products. Further, working with a single source supplier can limit or reduce the amount of scrap and construction waste on a site. Finally, the longevity and durability of the material are significant since a custom, durable ceiling may not need to be replaced during the life of the building in contrast to other ceiling systems that could need to be replaced repeatedly.

Indoor Environmental Quality

When natural and tested materials are used, custom ceilings can exhibit very favorable traits for indoor environments. By integrating skylights into the ceilings, natural daylight can be added enhancing the human experience. Biophilic design, as we have discussed, can be incorporated to further contribute to the general health and wellness attributes that are possible. From a product standpoint, ceiling products are typically made with low-emitting materials that are pre-finished with low volatile organic compound (VOC) content. Further, no paints, coatings, adhesives, or harmful sealants are usually needed during installation, so the potential for formaldehyde or other on-site VOCs is reduced.

Custom, innovative ceilings have the potential to pursue some innovation in design credits under LEED and other programs too. Even without that, it should be clear that the products currently available can help buildings achieve green building design certification.

SPECIFYING CUSTOM CEILING

When specifying custom ceiling systems, it is advisable to first talk with manufacturers or suppliers of such systems to understand and assess the available product offerings and possibilities. It is also helpful to review industry standards and model specifications that can be edited for specific projects, whether new construction or renovation. In a standard, 3-part specification format following the CSI or MasterFormat system, ceilings are found in Division 09 Finishes usually under Section 09 50 00 or a subsection thereunder. Some of the relevant items to address are highlighted as follows.

Part 1 - General

The scope of the specified work for the custom ceiling system and related work as well as any definitions should be called out. It is advisable to call for a pre-installation meeting and to request submittals based on the project needs, including the request for LEED documentation if any relevant credits are being pursued. Quality assurance can be addressed by calling out the relevant ASTM and other standards that need to be met for the materials selected. Project conditions and product storage should all be addressed in a typical fashion with a particular emphasis on protecting the materials from moisture to avoid damage.

Part 2 - Products

ll of the different performance and material criteria for the ceiling components being specified need to be called out. This includes the ceiling tiles, baffles, suspension systems, hardware, accessories, and any other components or parts. The specific material listings following the ASTM and ANSI standards should be identified including any allowable variations. Since most custom ceiling systems are pre-finished, the colors, textures, and patterns of all exposed components need to be identified and referenced to the drawings as appropriate. Any related materials or accessories provided by others should either be specified in this spec section or be referenced in other relevant specification sections.

Part 3 - Execution

As with any site-installed product, the installation requires multiple steps which need to be clearly articulated in the specification in order to achieve the best results.

• Examination and Preparation: The importance of this step should always be stressed. In addition to the architect, the installer and general contractor or construction manager should review and examine the substrate for conditions that may affect the installation or the overall performance of the ceiling. This can include a determination of where or where suspension wires, rods, etc., should be installed. It may also require an assessment of walls and other surfaces that the ceiling is abutting. Any issues will need to be corrected, likely by the general contractor, if they are found to be out of compliance with the stated requirements.
• Installation: The recommendations and procedures of the ceiling manufacturer as well as the applicable requirements of codes and standards should be followed in all cases.
• Protection: Once installed and finished, the surface should likely be able to withstand use by remaining construction personnel on the project. However, the general contractor should be instructed to cover and protect any surfaces that are vulnerable to damage.

When designed, specified, and installed correctly, a custom ceiling system can readily provide the desired look, the general health and wellness benefits, and the long-term performance characteristics that are intended.

CONCLUSION

Custom ceiling systems can meet a full range of design and performance needs. Coordination is needed to ensure that all of the different ceiling components work together. Whenever possible, a single source responsibility for the entire system is preferred, starting with design assistance all the way through complete installation.

CASE STUDIES

School Case Study: Sound Solutions, Colorful Creations

Project: North Bend Elementary School
Location: Humble, Texas
Architect: PBK Architects

Photos courtesy of Armstrong World Industries

 

Photos courtesy of Armstrong World Industries

 

The Project: This brand-new elementary school project had an overall goal to enhance the building’s architectural design by creating a playful and functional environment for students. The client had a clear vision of what they wanted, providing initial renderings that aligned closely with the final photos.

The Building Design: The design focused on creating a playful atmosphere for the children, seeking an acoustic solution for adults in a friendly visual environment, and attenuating sound for all. Collaborating with the design team, the ceiling manufacturer helped select the ideal colors and systems to achieve the desired aesthetic and functional goals. Multiple colorful finishes and acoustic ceiling systems were incorporated into various themed play and enrichment areas.

The Ceiling Design: The project includes an underwater-themed space where waving baffles provide the immersive experience of being underwater, complete with an interactive submersible and large sea life suspended from the ceiling. Another communal area features a desert-like environment complete with a camel that doubles as a bench while ceiling baffles above resemble an expansive skyscape.

Going beyond the sky, another area is themed after outer space exploration with a space shuttle, astronaut, and moon base underneath dark blue and black acoustic baffles. These immersive and interactive spaces create educational and nurturing spaces for these students.

The Acoustic Design: The design team chose acoustic ceiling baffles as the top choice due to their versatility and suitability for the specific design requirements. Four different baffle systems were utilized in seven distinct areas, each tailored to the space’s unique needs. The systems were strategically selected, such as using contoured and 3D systems. The integrated acoustic systems seamlessly complemented the sculptural elements, creating an overall atmosphere of joy for current and future students. The project met the aesthetic and acoustic requirements and delivered a playful and functional environment that positively impacted the school’s atmosphere.

The Results: The results speak for themselves as the final design created an enriching and playful experience for the students at this new elementary school in the Humble Independent School District.

Office Case Study: Creating a Quiet Space with Flowing Baffles

Project: Textron Systems
Location: Arlington, Virginia
Architect: HKS Architects

Photos courtesy of Arktura

 

The Project: Textron is a leading company in uncrewed air, surface, and land defense as well as commercial products, services, and support. They recently embarked on an innovative renovation of their Arlington, Virginia office space. As part of this groundbreaking project, Textron partnered with HKS Architects and a custom ceiling design and manufacturing firm renowned for its custom architectural solutions. Casey Construction Group, LLC installed this ambitious, custom-tailored project, and Rand Construction was the contractor.

The Design: This client’s showroom features a stunning tailored ceiling acoustic system based on a 3D ceiling baffle collection. These motion-appearing baffles stretch across the office’s ceiling, bringing Textron employees a quiet and productive environment. The undulating motion of the baffles creates a soothing visual effect when viewed from various angles throughout the project space. The design of these acoustic baffles is inspired by the natural flow and texture of desert sand dunes. Finished in a biophilic-centric wood print, this system pairs well with the stark grey of the custom wall panels.

These custom baffles aim to inspire creativity and motion with their wave-like gestures. The linear ceiling system extends from the reception area throughout the office space, providing acoustic attenuation to multiple breakout areas and hallways around the office.

The Design Process: The collaboration between all parties involved was not just productive, but also seamless, which was a crucial reason this project went so smoothly. A mockup was provided which played a vital role, allowing for a refinement of the design as needed, while the architect and client could approve a full-scale mockup before full-scope production began. The most challenging component was meeting the complex system’s schedule outlined by the client, but everyone rose to the occasion, ensuring a successful outcome. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of all parties involved, the finished product was visually stunning and unique. The manufacturer demonstrated its expertise by creating custom architectural products for this project. The results fulfilled and exceeded the client’s expectations.

The Results: Since its completion, this distinct visual and functional project has not only garnered attention but also been awarded a prestigious CISCA (Ceilings and Interior Systems Construction Association) Manufacturer’s Award at the 2024 CISCA Construction Excellence Awards event. The Manufacturer’s Award, given to the project that received the highest scores from the judges for projects submitted by manufacturers, is a testament to the project’s excellence and innovation.

Airport Case Study: Acoustic Attenuation to Put Hurried Travelers at Ease

Project: Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Architect: Corgan

Photos: Kurt Griesbach

 

The Project: Located in the newly completed eighth concourse of Terminal 4, the busiest terminal in the airport, this project took over three years to complete. The new concourse adds eight new gates serving Southwest Airlines passengers. “America’s Friendliest Airport” is also the eighth busiest airport in the U.S. U.S. and the 11th busiest in the world, which challenged the design team to create a dynamic design to fit the project’s needs functionally and aesthetically. This new concourse covers approximately 130,000 square feet in the newly renovated space.

The Design: Corgan Arizona went to a custom ceiling manufacturer with a formidable design proposition. Instead of selecting a standard module from a catalog, they challenged the company to bring their plan to life. Corgan already had the design concept in mind originally tagged as a Public Art Space. The intent was to display Arizona’s famous desert landscape as undulating acoustic baffles meant to represent the sandy landscape of the nearby Imperial Sand Dunes. The appearance of these large baffles, made of acoustic material, was created using fin depths up to 24 inches and dynamic changes in shape, giving the system the illusion of being up to 8-9 feet deep. The natural finish mimics the surrounding desert.

The Wellness Aspect: The terminal, including the custom acoustic modules, was part of a larger-scale project to help increase traveler wellness at one of the nation’s busiest airports. The result is a beautifully captivating architectural feature that promotes acoustics and wellness to the millions of passengers traveling through Phoenix Sky Harbor annually. The developers are currently seeking LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for the overall construction.

The Installation: Because of the scale and engineering involved, this project required custom manufacturing of the system into an easy-to-install kit of parts. The dune-like quality of the custom fins is even more apparent when looking through the floor-to-ceiling dynamic UV-adjusting glazing overlooking the runways and surrounding desert.

The installer could not connect to the deck with a threaded rod, so the team collaborated to find the best options to simplify things to meet the project’s needs.

The Results: Since completion, this project has been awarded a CISCA Manufacturer’s Award in the Civic─Above 50,000 square feet─West category in March of 2023. CISCA (Ceilings and Interior Systems Construction Association) presents these honors to the manufacturers, contractors, distributors, and independent reps that produced excellent projects for the built environment in their given year.

Retail Case Study: Creating an Inclusive and Nurturing Workplace

Project: Mychal’s Cafe
Location: Redondo Beach, California

Photos courtesy of Arktura

 

The Project: Mychal’s Café is a social enterprise operated by Mychal’s Learning Place, a local 501(C)(3) non-profit organization. They are dedicated to providing employment opportunities for youth with developmental disabilities while offering a delightful dining experience for the community. The project at Mychal’s Cafe was to install much-needed acoustic ceiling cloud systems to enhance their newest location in Redondo Beach, California.

The Challenge: As a place where individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities work, creating an environment conducive to clear communication and a warm dining atmosphere was crucial. The challenge was to improve acoustics without compromising the aesthetic appeal of the space.

The Design Solution: The design team, which included a custom ceiling manufacturer, leveraged their expertise in architectural acoustics to address the specific needs of this space. The team recommended a new acoustic module system in the shape of a rosette. This intricate acoustic cloud system is made of sound-absorbing material and shaped in a floral-like arrangement. These modules were finished in a bright, inviting two-color finish featuring white paired with a natural-looking wood texture. These two-toned acoustic clouds seamlessly integrate functionality with aesthetic appeal to meet the unique needs of the cafe.

The Process: Beyond simply shipping the modules and calling it a day, the manufacturer’s visualization team created digital mockups of the cloud systems laid out with the cafe’s architectural drawings. This ensured that the space received the proper amount of coverage and acoustic attenuation. The installation was swift, and the impact was immediate and significant. The cafe’s baristas experienced noticeable improvements in communication with customers, enhancing the overall experience for both employees and patrons.

The Results: Page Sacks is the Development Director of Mychal’s Learning Place. He observes “Before the modules were installed, our baristas couldn’t hear customers across the counter from them, but now it’s the perfect place to connect with friends and see how capable and able our staff truly is.” This transformation significantly improved the working environment for their staff, fostering a more supportive and inclusive atmosphere. It also enhanced the overall dining experience for customers, making the cafe a more inviting and enjoyable space.

Peter J. Arsenault, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP is a nationally known architect who has authored nearly 300 continuing education courses focused on advancing building performance through better design. www.pjaarch.com, www.linkedin.com/in/pjaarch