The challenge of Lely Lyceum Gymzalen

The Ir. Lely Lyceum in Amsterdam is a school where quality and atmosphere come first. Of course, this also includes good acoustics for an optimal working environment in the gym. The Lyceum has 3 gymnasiums, where two halls can be converted into one hall. Due to the reverberation, it is not pleasant to exercise, teach and stay in these gymnasiums. For students, this means exercising in a troubled, uncomfortable environment. For LO teachers, this means working daily in difficult circumstances. Most complaints about acoustics came from the lecturers in particular. Due to the poor acoustics, the gymnasiums are also less suitable for taking exams and other activities.

We started with extensive discussions and interviews with everyone involved in the school and a thorough “inspection” of the gymnasiums. The school had previously had an acoustic measurement carried out by a third party, which showed that the acoustics left much to be desired. The assignment from school was that the gymnasiums must meet the standards of the KVLO/NOC.NSF (standards where the allowable reverberation time depends on the volume of the sports room). Akoesta has made a plan of action and guarantees that by placing the proposed solutions, the intended reverberation times are also achieved. An important condition here, however, is that Akoesta can carry out acoustic measurements itself. In this way, we can perform a comparable and reliable post-measurement after the installation of the acoustic solutions. This provides a clear insight into the effect. Based on the information collected in this way, we chose Akoesta 100 wall panels. These are mounted low on the wall, at speaking and ear level. This is how you achieve the most effect. These are grey-green, plain panels with a robust fabric finish. Athletes can easily bump into this without getting hurt. Higher up the walls, Akoesta Sports panels were chosen, with atmospheric prints of athletes. This gives the gymnasiums a new look.