DaCapo College: Renovation with Acoustics in Mind

Breathing new life into an old space

DaCapo College in Sittard, Netherlands, underwent a major renovation to transform a dated building into a contemporary learning hub. Designed to promote openness, collaboration and acoustic comfort, the project called for tailored design solutions in each space. Architects and acoustic consultants worked hand in hand to deliver a future-ready educational environment fit for both teaching and well-being.

Supporting student well-being through acoustic design

The architecture of DaCapo College invites interaction. Designed with openness and transparency in mind, its layout includes a prominent glazed façade and a spacious public-facing ground floor to encourage collaboration. Interior architect Peter Littman led the interior concept, selecting natural, sustainable materials to foster a calm environment and support a healthy indoor climate.

Littman also placed strong emphasis on acoustics. In educational spaces, controlling sound is essential for concentration, communication and well-being. “Annoying reverberation in a classroom does not contribute to optimal concentration; it is disturbing for the ultimate learning and teaching process but not only that, also for the well-being of the student and teacher”, he explained.

In one particularly demanding area – the auditorium – high ceilings and glass and concrete surfaces resulted in excessive reverberation. Although Rockfon Contour baffles were initially installed, they did not sufficiently reduce the echo. To resolve this, the team introduced additional acoustic treatment on the walls, Rockfon Blanka Activity, without altering the visual design.

Rockfon Blanka Activity was installed using a B-edge format suitable for glueing. The tiles were mounted in a close grid across the walls, improving sound absorption while maintaining a sleek, integrated look. “The combination of both technical and aesthetic flexibility with maximum performance in both areas makes the B-edge, the use of the glue and the way of the installation a unique product to use in these situations", said Littman.

Beyond the auditorium, Rockfon stone wool ceilings contribute to a safe and resilient school interior. With Class A1 fire safety and resistance to up to 100 percent relative humidity, the products support both acoustic well-being and long-term performance in learning spaces.