Rectifying Acoustical Issues: The case of M8 Design Studio in University of Sharjah

This research addresses one of the most important and common issues in design studios in M8 (Architectural Engineering Department) in University of Sharjah. Usually, whenever architects design a building, they do not pay enough attention to the materials' acoustical properties, and this leads to sound issues that disturb both students and instructors. Methodologies that were used in this research include acoustic measurements and ECOTECT software for simulations. Simulation scenarios of the current condition in M8 design studios were performed using the ECOTECT software program, which took into consideration wall materials, flooring materials, and ceiling materials. Few simulation scenarios cases were conducted and compared, which resulted in identifying the best method for rectifying the acoustic issues.