“Sound-absorbing ceiling tiles were the primary method of reducing the reverberation time in occupied spaces to a level that met the LEED criteria,” says Block. “The ceiling tiles were also important for reducing mechanical noise from VAV [variable air volume] and other equipment in the plenum space.”
“We ended up with large open areas that do not feel or sound acoustically empty,” says Franzen.
Occupant comfort and well-being
Sustainability and acoustical performance objectives were top priorities for the company, as well as its partners, PGAL, SLR, the building team contractors, product manufacturers, and others. PGAL associate, Ryan Bass, American Institutes of Architects (AIA) says, “Platinum certification was Grundfos’ edict and a contract parameter. The acoustical performance was one of those many unnegotiable credits that had to be met.”
According to the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC), more than 90 percent of an organization’s operating costs are linked to employee efficiency. Therefore, workspaces design in the headquarters needed to facilitate the attraction and retention of talent, enhance employee comfort, heighten concentration, reduce stress, and enhance job satisfaction.
Surveys of office workers show their acoustic experience is one of the lowest ranking categories. Research shows people working in offices spend 62 percent of their time doing quiet work. The noise within their surrounding environments influences their accuracy, efficiency, productivity, and well-being.1
As the amount of sound absorption is increased inside a room, the reverberation time and noise levels decrease. This improves speech intelligibility, privacy, and comfort so employees can perform at their best. Even small changes in the acoustic experience may have a significant impact and a positive effect on the bottom line.
Daylighting and Danish design
The bright white, acoustic stone wool ceiling panels in Grundfos Global Water Utility Headquarters reflect 85 percent of light from their surface. The diffused lighting manages glare on computer screens and monitors, contributing to a comfortable, productive working environment. It also supports energy efficiency by optimizing electric and natural light, and bringing daylight more deeply into the office interior.
