Acoustic Design in Education: How Serenity Fabric Panels Improve Learning Spaces
Serenity Fabric Acoustic Panels by Sontext are a proven way to improve sound clarity and comfort in classrooms, libraries, and lecture theatres. With effective sound absorption, these panels create spaces where teachers can be heard clearly and students can focus without distraction.
Why Classroom Acoustics Matter
Good acoustics are essential in education. When sound reflects off hard surfaces, speech becomes muffled and difficult to understand. This increases cognitive load for students and causes vocal strain for teachers. By reducing reverberation time and background noise, Serenity Fabric Panels help improve speech intelligibility and overall classroom communication.
Recommended Acoustic Targets
- Reverberation Time (RT60): 0.4–0.6 seconds for classrooms; up to 0.8 seconds for large lecture theatres.
- Background Noise: Ideally 35 dBA or lower in unoccupied conditions.
- Speech Transmission Index (STI): Aim for ? 0.6 for clear verbal communication.
These values align with Australian and international guidelines for learning spaces. Measuring and verifying these targets post-installation ensures reliable results.
Common Acoustic Challenges in Schools
- Reflective materials such as glass, concrete, and vinyl floors.
- High occupancy levels and active group discussions.
- Noise intrusion from HVAC systems or outdoor areas.
Serenity Acoustic Solutions for Education
Classrooms: Serenity Fabric Panels can be installed on key reflection points covering approximately 25–35% of wall surfaces. They help maintain ideal reverberation times and improve clarity, especially in open-plan learning spaces. Ceiling options such as SerenityLite Panels offer complementary sound control for overhead spaces.
Libraries: Create balanced sound zones by using Serenity Panels on walls near collaborative areas while keeping quiet study zones peaceful. The panels’ clean fabric finish blends beautifully with shelves and furniture.
Lecture Theatres: Treat back and side walls with Serenity Panels to reduce echo and reflection. Their acoustic performance ensures every word is heard clearly from the front to the back row.
Material and Safety Considerations
- Sound Absorption (NRC): Serenity Panels typically achieve NRC ratings between 0.80 and 1.00.
- Fire Safety: Tested to meet Australian fire performance standards.
- Durability: The fabric finish is cleanable and resistant to impact—ideal for busy classrooms.
Design and Installation Checklist
- Define target reverberation and background noise levels.
- Calculate surface coverage based on room size and volume.
- Select a mix of Serenity Wall Panels and SerenityLite Ceiling Panels.
- Coordinate with lighting, HVAC, and AV layouts for integration.
- Verify post-installation performance using site acoustic tests.
Technical Specifications — Serenity Fabric Panels
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Acoustic Performance (NRC) | Typical NRC 0.80–1.00 (panel thickness, airgap, and fabric selection dependent) |
| Panel Thickness | 25 mm (standard), 50 mm (high absorption); custom on request |
| Standard Sizes | 600×600 mm, 1200×600 mm, 1200×1200 mm, 2400×1200 mm; custom sizes to suit layout |
| Core Material | Acoustic-grade mineral fibre core (standard); PET option available on request |
| Facing / Finish | Acoustic fabric wrapped, seams to rear; wide choice of commercial fabrics and colours |
| Edges / Profiles | Square, bevelled, or pencil-round; fabric returned to rear face |
| Mounting Options | Z-clips / split battens (removable), impaling clips + adhesive (rapid install), direct-fix bracket sets |
| Fire Performance | Tested to AS/NZS 1530.3; Group number to AS 5637.1 dependent on system and fabric selection |
| Typical Weight | ? 3–4 kg/m² (25 mm), ? 5–6 kg/m² (50 mm) |
| Durability & Cleaning | Vacuum with soft brush; spot clean per fabric manufacturer guidelines |
| Recommended Coverage | 25–35% of wall area in classrooms (adjust to meet RT60 targets) |
| Options / Notes | Custom colours, printed graphics, corner trims; increased low-frequency control with airgap |
Specifications are indicative and may vary with fabric choice and installation. For project-specific data sheets, please contact Sontext.
FAQs
How do Serenity Fabric Panels improve classroom acoustics?
They absorb unwanted sound reflections, reducing echo and improving clarity. This ensures students hear every word clearly, even in larger or busier classrooms.
Can Serenity Panels be installed during school holidays?
Yes. Serenity Panels are pre-finished and easy to install, allowing quick turnaround with minimal disruption during term breaks.
Are Serenity Panels compliant with fire safety standards?
All Serenity Panels are manufactured to meet or exceed Australian fire safety and acoustic performance standards for interior use.
How much wall coverage is needed for effective sound control?
For most classrooms, treating around 25–35% of wall area with Serenity Fabric Panels will achieve target reverberation times of 0.4–0.6 seconds.
Where can Serenity Fabric Panels be used besides classrooms?
Serenity Panels are suitable for libraries, lecture halls, music rooms, and staff areas—any space where clear speech and reduced noise are important.
Next Steps
To find the right acoustic solution for your education project, visit our Serenity Fabric Acoustic Panels page or explore SerenityLite Ceiling Panels. For project advice or custom panel options, contact the Sontext team today.