RPG Diffusor Systems

Acoustician

St. Martin of Tours rear view

“This new church facility (called a ‘real church’ by the Bishop at dedication, due to the successful blending of classical and contemporary design) is an octagon shaped structure (over 100’ wide/long) utilizing an angled ceiling which reaches a height of 48 feet at the peak (not including cupola).

St. Martin of Tours side view

Computer modeling indicated that this highly angled ceiling in the rear would create very long reflection times (echoes) back into portions of the seating area. The volume of the space (265k ft3) also dictated that absorption (other than from the minimally padded pews and carpeted floor) would also be required to keep the mid-band RT60 times around 2 seconds. Additionally, a wood ceiling with exposed laminated beams required the use of a “wood-look” absorber that would have to be stained to match the rest of the ceiling. Fortunately, RPG now provides their Topakustik® slotted wood products, which can be provided with the required amount of absorption vs. frequency. The project was successful due to the collaborative design among the architect, acoustician, and RPG.”

Tom Lorenzen
dBA Acoustics, Inc.
(formerly dBA/GEERDES)
Fort Wayne, IN 46857
tlorenzen@dbaacoustics.com

Architect

St. Martin of Tours rear view closeup

“Saint Martin of Tours Catholic Church desired a church sanctuary that would reflect their parish as well as the depth of the Church tradition. The size and scale of unobstructed views of this 900+ seat sanctuary required the unique structure and shape that was the result of the schematic design process.

Tom Lorenzen at dBA Acoustics determined the concern with the acoustical performance and the need for an absorptive surface. With the Topakustik product, we were able to provide the church with a cost effective solution to the aesthetic need for a wood ceiling and the practical need for acoustics. The ability of this product to blend in with the bottom of the structural wood planks allowed us to selectively integrate the sound absorption within the decking without a distracting change in appearance. The resulting looks, sound performance and budget will continue to please parishioners for years to come.”

Bill Barnard
Project Leader
The Troyer Group, Inc
550 Union Street
Mishawaka, IN 46544
whb@troyergroup.com