When the Métis Community Services Society of BC (MCSBC) reached out about sound management options in their Mamawapowin Métis Early Years Centre we visited the beautiful multipurpose space in Kelowna to take measurements and suggested adding cost-effective wall acoustic panels to reduce the reverb. The result is a quieter, more comfortable environment where children can focus, learn and play with fewer sound distractions.
With high ceilings and reflective surfaces typical of former church spaces, the centre faced excessive reverberation, which made it challenging for young learners and educators. With speech intelligibility in mind, adding 25 acoustic wall panels achieved 10% wall coverage and increased the quality of the room acoustics by reducing the reverb time by over one second, making it a more ideal learning environment.
Anchorage White was chosen for the acoustic fabric colour and panels were placed just out of reach of students, around the multimedia centre and above cupboards and doorways. The installation worked around existing artwork and maintains adequate illumination from the recessed lights.
Large room acoustic treatment can help balance sound distribution, reduce echo and improve clarity, creating a more comfortable and functional environment. Acoustic panels also do double duty by not only absorbing sound energy but also preventing it from bleeding into adjacent spaces, which was an issue that was discussed with sound transferring through the thin centre doors into neighboring work spaces.
Below are a few pictures of the acoustic treatment installation process and location.
Sound Camel is an acoustic treatment company specializing in noise control and acoustic solutions. We always appreciate the opportunity to visit such beautiful spaces and are grateful to have been able to help MCSBC with their room acoustics.
