High vaulted ceilings are a challenge to acoustical engineers looking to control, direct and amplify sounds to create a dynamic listening experience. LMN Architects approached the design for the new Voxman Music Building at the University of Iowa with an acute understanding of the construction limitations. They needed lightweight, yet rigid material that could be fabricated and hung in the open space in order to provide the right acoustics, integrate in the lighting and fire safety systems, and provide an inspiring experience true to their bold vision.
Metal composite material proved to be the perfect solution for this complex problem. In partnership with fabricators at Shaffner Heaney Associates, Inc, 6mm-thick ALPOLIC®/fr Metal Composite Material (MCM) was designed, fabricated, and installed to meet all engineering concerns and exceed the design expectation in bringing colorful swarms of kites to life.
Throughout the design process, the LMN Tech Studio employed a 3D parametric model to simulate how ALPOLIC® MCM could best provide sound scattering and absorption at the Voxman. The end result helps university musicians achieve the desired acoustic effects during performance.
The kites add rich color and functionality to music rooms without interfering with hanging lights and fire sprinkler systems. Photo credit: Mitchell Stier
To create the 946 detailed components adorning the high ceilings of Voxman’s main music hall and two large rehearsal rooms, Shaffer Heaney fabricator Mark Haab and his team digitally cut 36,000 square feet of ALPOLIC® with a fire retardant core. The unique installation also permitted other systems - lighting and fire sprinklers - to penetrate without interfering in the overall look of the design. "It was unlike any composite job we've done or seen anyone else do, and we knew it was something special the minute we saw the architect's plans," said Haab.
Six different colors, four of which were custom, all using Lumiflon® FEVE resin, add a touch of brilliance to the spaces within the building. While these aluminum "kites" appear to float in the sky, much the like the music filling the rooms, they contribute important elements to the functionality of the music rooms.
“This process and ALPOLIC® MCM has really become a calling card for us,” said Steven Van Dyck of LMN Architects. “We’re exploring and find we can make it do almost anything.”
"It's really a masterpiece, from the architect’s concept through the execution," said Haab of the overall project. "We took something that was very challenging and unique and out of the box and got it done."
Project Details: University of Iowa, Voxman Music Building
Location: Iowa City, Iowa
Architect: LMN Architects
Exterior Panel Manufacturer: ALPOLIC® Materials | Mitsubishi Chemical Composites America, Inc.
Product: 6mm, ALPOLIC/fr®
Coating: Custom Colors
Industry: Education
Related Stories
University Buildings | May 29, 2019
Gonzaga University’s Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center opens
New building includes interactive exhibit in tribute to the center’s donor.
University Buildings | May 17, 2019
Designing for the next generation of student life
When a prospective student evaluates an institution, they are imagining whether they can see themselves there as an individual.
Healthcare Facilities | May 16, 2019
ASU Health Futures Center combines a novel design and approach to learning
The trapezoidal shape of the building is an eco-friendly feature.
University Buildings | May 8, 2019
Victory Drive Student Housing project will bring 650 beds to Savannah College of Art and Design
The project will utilize the design-build resources of Clayco and BatesForum.
University Buildings | May 7, 2019
Center for Engineering, Innovation, and Sciences opens on Wentworth Institute of Technology’s Boston campus
Leers Weinzapfel Associates designed the building.
University Buildings | Apr 29, 2019
‘One Harvard’ initiative injects new life into campus center
The university’s Smith Campus Center now offers a centralized gathering place with several dining options.
University Buildings | Apr 24, 2019
Teaching on the cutting edge of design
University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign Campus Instructional Facility will celebrate and foster creativity and interdisciplinary cooperation.
University Buildings | Apr 22, 2019
An old warehouse building becomes the new Campus Center at Springfield Technical Community College
Ann Beha Architects designed the building.
University Buildings | Apr 19, 2019
Curtin University library redevelopment will modernize iconic campus structure
Brutalist structure to be softened with redesign by Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects.
University Buildings | Apr 16, 2019
UMass Amherst’s new copper-clad Business Innovation Hub adds 70,000 sf to the university’s business school
Bjarke Ingels Group designed the facility.