CH-18-C017 -- How Focusing on Acoustics in the Human Environment Improves Standards and Guidelines, and Creates Better Buildings

Many building standards, guidelines and codes focus on the structure, envelope, and energy use of the building, but do not detail or explore the environment through the lens of building occupants and their experience of the interior environment. These documents help owners and designers meet the requirements for quality design and dictate a certain standard of care, but fall short with respect to the perceived acoustical quality and function of the space. Current research is exploring opportunities for human centric design, how we can improve occupant experience and support physiological and psychological wellbeing, and propose metrics for standards and guidelines to optimize acoustical conditions in the built environment.