Project Context
This urban public library reading zone features high ceilings, large reading areas and extensive glass curtain walls, designed to provide a quiet, focused environment for independent study and reading. Hard stone flooring, plaster walls and the tall open volume caused noticeable reverberation and low-frequency hum. Footstep noise, page turning and quiet conversations spread easily across the open space, disturbing readers’ concentration. The library required an acoustic upgrade that would blend naturally with the minimalist public building aesthetic, while delivering stable acoustic performance and meeting strict European public building fire and environmental standards.
Custom Acoustic Solution
The project uses cement-bonded wood wool acoustic ceiling as the main absorption layer, paired with grooved acoustic wall panels for mid-low frequency tuning.
Wood wool panels were installed across the full reading zone ceiling, with a natural textured cement-wood fiber finish that complements the library’s calm, minimalist interior. With an NRC rating of 0.80–0.90, the panels efficiently absorb scattered ambient noise and reduce overall reverberation in the high-ceiling space. All panels carry EN 13501 Class A fire certification with excellent moisture stability.
Grooved acoustic panels were mounted on the upper section of perimeter walls, with mineral wool infill and rear air cavities to target 250–1000Hz mid-low frequency standing waves. Light oak veneer finishes were custom-selected to match the wooden bookshelf system, creating a unified warm reading atmosphere.
The 620 ㎡ project was completed in 16 days outside library opening hours.
Project Outcome
Post-renovation testing confirmed overall reverberation time falls within the recommended range for library reading spaces. Background noise and footstep disturbance decreased notably, and readers report improved focus and longer average stay duration. The textured wood wool ceiling and wood-grain grooved panels integrate naturally into the architectural interior, delivering professional acoustic performance without compromising the quiet, welcoming atmosphere of the public reading space.
