KidsAbility
KidsAbility is a space that offers resources, programs, and support to families with children who have physical, communication, or developmental challenges. A high ceiling that needed a playful acoustic solution.

Year Installed:
2023

Client:
Walter Fedy

Location:
Kitchener, ON

Situation

KidsAbility Centre for Childhood Development recently moved to a new location that features a wide, high open ceiling. This architectural design element, while visually appealing, required effective sound absorption to ensure a comfortable and functional environment. Architects from Walter Fedy proposed an innovative solution: creating floating beams with wave patterns to enhance both the acoustic performance and the visual appeal of the space.

Challenge

The building’s expansive, high ceilings presented significant acoustic challenges. The open design, reaching up to the steel structure, made controlling sound in the hallways and common areas particularly difficult. Effective sound absorption was essential to create a comfortable environment for the staff and the children served by KidsAbility.

Custom Beams

Custom Product

Solution

Hush Acoustics collaborated closely with the architects to produce wave-shaped acoustic beams that were hung from the ceiling. These free-floating beams not only helped diffuse and absorb sound but also maintained the open, airy feel of the space. The beams provided a dual benefit: significantly reducing echo and noise levels while contributing to the aesthetic appeal of the center.

By integrating these custom acoustic beams, the architects were able to meet their design goals while enhancing the acoustic quality of the environment. The innovative solution ensured that the space remained visually striking while offering a comfortable and effective sound management system.

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Results

The collaboration between Hush Acoustics and KidsAbility Centre for Childhood Development led to a substantial improvement in the acoustic environment of the new location. The strategic use of wave-shaped acoustic beams successfully addressed the noise challenges, creating a quieter, more comfortable space for staff and children alike.

The aesthetic appeal of the beams also complemented the center’s design, reflecting a playful yet functional atmosphere. KidsAbility expressed high satisfaction with the project outcomes, noting the seamless integration of acoustic solutions with the overall architectural vision.

By leveraging Hush Acoustics’ expertise in innovative sound solutions, KidsAbility was able to transform its new location into a welcoming and acoustically optimized environment that supports both staff efficiency and child development.

Products used in this project:

Hush_Custom-Product

CUSTOM PRODUCT

Project credits:

Office: Walter Fedy

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