Redefining Modern Learning with Acoustic Comfort

What does a school designed for the future sound like?

Hämeenkylä's original school building was built in the 1970s and suffered from significant indoor air problems and moisture damage. The building was demolished in 2016, and the municipality decided to build a brand-new unified school to house students in grades from 1 to 9 grade. The new school building was commissioned in 2020, and today, almost 800 pupils are studying and having their daily routines at the school.

Designing for every type of learning

Before planning the design of the new school, the architects invited the students, parents, and neighbourhood residents to a workshop to set brand new priorities. It was clear that teamwork, adaptability of facilities, and comfortable acoustics would all play an important role for school life in the new Hämeenkylä.

"In terms of acoustics, schools – and especially their modern facilities – have become increasingly challenging over the years," explains Jari Kivistö, Regional Sales Manager at Rockfon.

Rockfon Color-all acoustic ceiling tiles in the Gravel colour were incorporated to match the raw concrete interior. In spaces with lower frequencies, Rockfon Koral tiles were installed.

The school features subtle industrial touches, with exposed rough concrete in the stairwells and canteen and varying shades of grey across surfaces. These are balanced by warm reddish tones and wooden elements that soften the overall atmosphere. Both acoustic ceiling solutions complement the palette.