An Acoustic Strategy for a Passive House

Designing quality spaces for comfortable learning

Opened in 2018, the Adolfsberg School in Knivsta, Sweden, stands as the town’s second certified Passive House school. Designed by LLP Arkitektkontor to fulfill IGPH international standards, the school design prioritises an advantageous form factor, sustainability, and interior atmosphere. Installed throughout, Rockfon acoustic ceiling solutions ensure Class A sound absorption for an environment where students can study individually or collaborate in acoustic comfort.

Acoustic ceilings and open plans for modern learning

Constructing a modern Swedish school poses challenges beyond simply erecting walls and a roof. Mattias Palme underscores the goal: “In this open floor layout, the children must be able to work in groups as well as immerse themselves in individual study. The importance of acoustics in this regard cannot be overstated.”

Adolfsberg’s school design balances open space and defined zones. “There are teachers that roam about the room while carrying out a variety of activities, so an acoustic ceiling solution is critical. We created a sound environment in which absorption and reflection interact and complement one another,” says Palme. The result allows speeches near the staircase without microphones, preserving a peaceful study area.

Rockfon Industrial Nature ceilings were mounted directly to the soffit using screws and washers in a simple, cost-effective solution. The design also incorporates wall absorbers and a textile mat of recycled materials to reduce dust and enhance the indoor climate, provided it’s regularly cleaned.

Rockfon Industrial Nature has a soft-structured natural surface that can serve either as a visible ceiling finish or be placed behind other architectural elements. It offers Class A high sound absorption and Class A1 fire safety, ensuring both acoustic performance and safety standards. The solution is available with in the A24 straight-cut edge.

Other circulation and breakout areas in the school feature Rockfon Blanka Activity white ceiling tiles. With a smooth, non-directional surface, Rockfon Blanka Activity reduces installation time and its 40 mm thickness achieves superior sound absorption at low frequencies. Its durable surface resists dirt and wear, extending its lifespan in high-traffic school zones.