Zac Goldberg

The design brief for Studio 12 was a neurodiverse sensitive mixed-use apartment complex, situated by Mernda train station. Research undertaken this semester highlights how sound sensitivity within a built environment is often overlooked, with little consideration given to the sound quality of non-music related spaces. Therefore the ambition for my thesis project was to research and innovate architectural detail techniques to facilitate a comfortable acoustic environment, specifically for the neurodiverse. In order to achieve this, comprehensive acoustic engineering integration was crucial, synthesising unwanted sounds while welcoming others. Specifics involved combating noise and vibration pollution, and comprehending desired sound distribution. This knowledge then precipitated specific acoustic integrated detailing, from the doors and windows to suspended floors and ceilings. At every stage of the project, technical acoustic engineering became synonymous with the design decisions, reinforcing the relationship between sound, engineering and architecture.