Date/Time: November 7, 2026 | 3:15 – 4:15 pm

Room: TAHOMA 5

Abstract: Mass-timber construction is reshaping the design of K–12 schools, offering warm, biophilic environments that support student well-being while reducing embodied carbon. Exposed wood structure can create inspiring spaces that feel more connected to nature and community.

This session explores the intersection of mass timber, acoustics, and inclusive classroom design, beginning with a practical primer on classroom acoustic fundamentals. Participants will gain a clear understanding of key design parameters, considerations and how these criteria influence speech clarity, listening effort, and overall student comfort. The discussion will also explore how design teams determine which acoustic targets to prioritize in different types of learning environments.

The presentation then shares insights from new-to-the-industry field testing of acoustics in recently completed mass-timber schools in the Pacific Northwest, where in-situ measurements were conducted to better understand the real-world acoustic performance of CLT structural systems. These findings reveal how exposed timber ceilings, wall-mounted absorption, floor assembly design, and careful attention to flanking sound paths work together to shape classroom acoustics.

Complementing this research, presenters will share lessons from an extensive post-occupancy evaluation of the campus at the Washington School for the Deaf. Designing for deaf and hard-of-hearing students highlights the broader sensory dimensions of learning environments, including the role of vibration, visual awareness, and acoustics. The key findings from the study inform more inclusive, universally supportive classroom design.

Together, these research findings and real-world measurements offer practical guidance for architects, engineers, and school planners seeking to balance architectural expression, constructability, sustainability, and acoustic performance—showing how mass-timber schools can fully embrace the beauty of wood while creating learning environments that support every student.

Learning Objectives:

1. Recognize how exposed mass-timber structural systems influence classroom acoustics and identify strategies that allow designers to maintain visible wood while supporting high-quality learning environments.
2. Explain key classroom acoustic design principles, including design considerations for room shape, size, location of applied acoustic materials and a important considerations and details to mitigate flanking sound.
3. Apply lessons learned from new field testing of acoustics in recently completed mass-timber schools to improve acoustic predictability and reduce design risk in future K-12 projects.
4. Apply lessons learned from new field testing of acoustics in recently completed mass-timber schools to improve acoustic predictability and reduce design risk in future K-12 projects.