The document summarizes a master's thesis that explores redefined acoustic design strategies through a performative kinetic ceiling system. The project involves designing an acoustically interactive ceiling for a multifunctional space in Milan using computational tools. Absorptive and reflective material panels on the ceiling can be axially rotated to create different acoustic configurations optimized for scenarios like conferences or coworking by varying the reverberation time. Simulations of the design were done using the Pachyderm acoustic plugin for Rhinoceros, allowing evaluation of acoustic comfort early in the design process.

1. Master Thesis Title:
Invisible Architecture: Challenging Room Acoustics Through Performative Design.
Supervisor:
Ingrid Paoletti
Co-supervisor:
Carlo Alberto Gasparini, Elettra de Pellegrin
Key Words:
acoustic design, multifunctional space, pachyderm plugin,
reverberation, optimisation, absorbing materials, interactive component.
Abstract:
The aim of the work is to study redefined design strategies in the area of Architectural acoustics. This
idea arose from the observation that the acoustical considerations in architecture tend to be static and
generallly the field architecture is ocular-centric; however, thowever, the appearance is not the only
final element to define the space. The work is proposing the path for an acoustic treatment influenced
by the specific internal sound conditions.
The research, taking place in a multifunctional space in Milan (Upcycle Milano Bike Cafe) is focused on
the reverberation time criteria. A formerly abandoned garage, nowadays well-designed contemporary
place with a flexible program is described as “a marketplace for sustainable innovation where business,
ideas, and projects can meet”1
. Neglecting the acoustic conditions in the architectural design are
causing (by its daily changed events and various functions of the place) problems that should be
considered and proactively avoided by the architect.
The Project is describing an acoustically interactive kinetic ceiling by the use of computational tools
with the main focus on performance of different combinations of absorbent and reflective materials
(in cooperation with Slalom company2
). The original Slalom absorbent rectangular panels are
improved by a second reflective layer that, by axial rotation, can create different different acoustic
conditions within the open-plan space. The proposal suggests three different configurations, for
different scenarios (conference, co-working, market) that vary in their desirable reverberation
times. Furthermore, the proposal suggests possible potentials for the future.
Simulations are done through the Pachyderm plugin3
for Rhinoceros and Grasshopper, which is
provides an effective evaluative tool for acoustics, integrated within the design environment.
Pachyderm can provide control over the acoustic comfort parameter already in the early stage of the
design, not only the final analysis.
Designing for sound is challenging as it is a time-based multidimensional phenomenon that change
with the position and qualities of sound sources and sound receivers and the social/cultural situation in
which it is experienced. Together with technological progress and rapidly changing needs the
acoustics in architecture is becoming an important issue in digital design practice.
Notes:
1
studied space website: http://www.avanzi.org/habitat
2
acoustic consultancy company, specializing in particular fields (sound absorbent panels)
3
Pachyderm Acoustic Simulation for Rhinoceros / Grasshopper is a collection of acoustics simulation
algorithms, still under development
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MASTER THESIS SUMMARY
CONTACT:
 Via Calzecchi 10
20131, Milano
Italia
 +39 320 7003004
 huba.martin@gmail.com
MARTIN HUBA