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The
Miller/Hull Partnership, LLP
Scope:
We
provided all aspects of acoustical design
for the addition of a new K-12 building
and library, as well as upgrading the
existing gym. The Bush School was designed
t o LEED criteria, and uses a natural
ventilation system.
Challenges:
The use of chimneys, fans, and operable
windows in a sustainable school create
additional acoustic challenges for environmental
noise control and interior room acoustics.
Chimneys containing exhaust assist systems
run through classrooms create noise.
Noise due to the necessity of keeping
windows open as well as from mechanical
equipment to neighboring houses was
a big concern for this project.
Solutions:
In accordance with Leadership in
Energy and Environmental Design guidelines
and Washington Administrative Code,
our design recommendations had to meet
a Noise Criteria 35 within classrooms.
We needed to improve upon the existing
design of vertical unit ventilators
by working to reduce noise levels. We
worked with three manufacturers to improve
their products. We were able to improve
these units and design a mechanical
system which adheres to code requirements
and LEED guidelines.
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The
Bush School was founded in 1924,
and is Seattle’s oldest independent K-12
school. The school is spread over nine
acres in the
Madison Valley Neighborhood.
Special care
in designing
recommendations was
taken to ensure that
neighboring communities would not be
exposed to noise from rooftop
mechanical
equipment and interior sources.
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Meeting
Environmental Noise Challenges