Join us for a discussion of some of the key acoustic challenges in today’s workplaces, both for the initial design/planning and for troubleshooting issues in existing spaces.  We will go beyond “Acoustics 101” into a discussion of the problems and solutions we encounter on a daily basis.  

PROGRAM TAKEAWAYS

+ Review the building features that influence speech privacy in both enclosed and open plan spaces.

+ Explore how the hybrid workplace has changed some of the basic assumptions in acoustic design… but does not change the underlying science!

+ Learn how acoustic considerations can feed into space planning for new facilities, with examples of how some larger corporations use their design standards to bring sound into initial planning discussions.

+ Discuss the noise (and vibration!) that comes with interactive amenities such as sports simulators and fitness spaces.

+ Create a framework of how to “think” about and evaluate complaints in existing spaces, informing strategies for addressing the underlying issues before considering specialized products or major interventions.

MEET THE PRESENTER

GREG MILLER
Principal
Cerami & Associates, Inc.

Greg Miller has twenty-eight years of experience as an acoustician for major projects in the U.S. and around the world. His work is particularly notable in corporate interiors and cultural sectors where he has contributed to groundbreaking designs for projects ranging from major corporate headquarters to performing arts centers. He has a particularly keen eye for the flexibility of the spaces he designs, finding ways to allow significant transformation of function in ways that are seamless, efficient, and effective. His innovative work on techniques to improve realism within acoustic simulations (auralizations) has been presented at international conferences and is used by many throughout the industry.  

Greg’s foundational work on each project is exploratory:  understanding the client’s basic needs, exploring possible avenues of interest, and translating these subjective goals into objective design strategies.  Moving forward into design, Greg approaches each project with a curious practicality in which each recommendation is made knowing that it meets his client’s needs, fits their budget, and can be documented and constructed with clarity.  At the same time, one of most rewarding elements of Greg’s design work also embraces the challenge to explore new territory with his clients when it can be done while standing on the solid ground of proven science, rigorous analysis, and real-world testing.  

Greg is regularly invited to lecture at universities, training the next generation of acoustic designers. He always stresses that the true measure of success is the experience of the people who inhabit the buildings he and his team design.

Disclaimer: The views expressed at IFMA Chicago programs are solely those of the chapter and do not necessarily represent those of the International Facility Management Assocation.