Schools

As pedagogical concepts evolve, so too does school design. Traditional classroom-corridor layouts are increasingly being replaced by clusters and open-plan learning environments. Regardless of the school’s spatial design, good room acoustics are a key prerequisite for successful learning. They improve speech intelligibility, boost concentration and performance, and promote well-being. 

Reverberation time as a key acoustic design parameter

The key basis for acoustic planning is DIN 18041, which defines the requirements for reverberation time, absorption and background noise levels. For good speech intelligibility, a signal-to-noise ratio – i.e. the difference between the useful sound (speech, etc.) and the background noise – of at least 10-15 dB(A) is required. At a normal speaking volume of around 50-55 dB(A), the background noise level should therefore not exceed 35-40 dB(A) where possible.

To achieve this, in addition to reducing background noise, the reverberation time is particularly crucial. It indicates the time it takes for the sound pressure level to drop by 60 dB after the sound source has been switched off, and can be influenced by sound-absorbing surfaces. Excessively long reverberation times lead to syllable overlap and reduced speech intelligibility, particularly in the speech-relevant frequency range of approx. 250-2,000 Hz. 

The requirements for reverberation time vary depending on the size and use of the room:

• In classrooms, specialist rooms and group rooms up to 200 m³, the reverberation time should be ≤ 0.5 s; in rooms measuring 200-400 m³, it should be ≤ 0.6 s. This can be achieved very effectively with a sound-absorbing ceiling. In small, rectangular rooms with smooth wall surfaces, a combination of absorbent and strategically reflective areas is recommended, along with additional wall absorbers where necessary.
• Open teaching areas such as learning landscapes require the same acoustic qualities as classrooms. In addition, individual areas must be acoustically separated from one another, for example using mobile acoustic screens (≥ 1.6 m in height).
• For staff rooms, meeting rooms and libraries, a reverberation time of ≤ 0.6 s generally applies. In libraries in particular, the furniture already has a sound-absorbing effect, so the focus of acoustic optimisation is often on the ceiling surface.
• High occupancy and many simultaneous conversations in canteens and cafeterias increase the demands on sound absorption. The permissible reverberation time depends on the room volume: up to 500 m³: ≤ 0.8 s | 500-2,000 m³: ≤ 1.0 s | over 2,000 m³: ≤ 1.2 s. Without sufficient sound absorption, the overall sound level rises due to the mutual ‘amplification’ of conversations (the Lombard effect). An acoustically effective ceiling design is the key element here for ensuring a pleasant environment.
• The requirements for auditoriums and event spacesvary depending on their primary use (speech or music). Shorter reverberation times are required for speech-dominated use than for combined music and speech use. Here too, the design is volume-dependent.
• For sports halls, reverberation times of between approximately 1.3-1.8 s apply, depending on the volume. The aim is to limit high peak and sustained sound levels and to ensure speech intelligibility during announcements. In addition to wall surfaces, the ceiling plays a central role, as it can be designed to cover a large area and is suitable for any use.
• In corridors, foyers and break areas, either defined reverberation times (e.g. ≤ 1.0 s) or minimum requirements for the ratio of absorption area to room volume must be met. This is because, particularly in heavily frequented areas, effective absorption over a large area is crucial.

The key role of suspended metal acoustic ceilings in room acoustics

In schools, the ceiling is usually the largest contiguous surface that can be freely designed. As a result, it plays a key role in meeting standard acoustic requirements. Robust, non-combustible metal acoustic ceilings are ideal for specifically reducing reverberation time in the frequency range relevant to speech intelligibility, from approximately 100 to 5,000 Hz. 

In classrooms, an acoustic ceiling covering the entire surface is often sufficient. In larger or acoustically sensitive rooms, the metal ceiling can be specifically combined with (partially) reflective areas to utilise early reflections to aid speech transmission. 

Our metal ceilings combine high acoustic effectiveness with great design freedom, thus enabling acoustic functionality without compromising on sophisticated design.

Recommended ceilings:

• Closed metal acoustic ceiling
• Expanded metal ceiling RHOMBOS
• Ceiling sail dur-SOLO 
• Vertical slat ceiling POLYLAM
• Low-frequency absorber POLYLAM dur-SONIC
• Broadband absorber dur-SONIC CUBE for open ceilings

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In Germany, there is no separate, nationwide ‘School Temperature Regulation’. Schools therefore follow the Workplace Ordinance and the Technical Rules for Workplaces (ASR A3.5). The requirements set out therein apply to teachers, but also to pupils, as the Workplace Ordinance does not distinguish between adults and children:

• These regulations stipulate a minimum room temperature of 20°C for light, sedentary work. From temperatures above 26°C, measures such as ventilation or sun protection are recommended.
• In sports halls, a room temperature of 19°C should be maintained.
• In other areas, such as break rooms, toilets, changing rooms and canteens, the temperature should be at least 21°C during hours of use.

Temperature control via convection and radiation

Metal climate ceilings regulate the room temperature through radiation and convection.

During cooling, cold water circulates through a pipe system installed in the metal ceiling. This cools the surface to the desired temperature. The warm air cools against the ceiling and sinks back down. This circulation (convection) accounts for approximately 40% of the heat transfer. The remaining 60% occurs via thermal radiation. Here, the ceiling absorbs the infrared radiation emitted by people, walls, floors, etc., and dissipates it via the water.

During heating, approximately 10% of the thermal energy is transferred to the room via convection, i.e. the warm air rises and remains there for the most part. In contrast, 90% of the heat is transferred to the room and the people in it via radiation and absorbed by them.

Advantages of metal climate ceilings

Metal climate ceilings offer a space-saving, modern and comfortable solution for room temperature control and have several advantages over conventional air conditioning systems. They regulate the room temperature evenly, hygienically and silently, without draughts, and are characterised by a long service life and high energy efficiency. 

In addition, sprinklers, loudspeakers, lights, etc. can be perfectly integrated into the climate ceilings. Despite this outstanding functionality, our versatile, acoustically effective ceilings offer a great deal of design freedom.

Recommended ceilings:

• Metal ceiling COOLTEC
• Expanded metal ceiling RHOMBOS COOLTEC
• Raft ceiling dur-SOLO COOLTEC
• Vertical baffle ceiling POLYLAM COOLTEC
• Open-cell ceiling STARLAM 9 COOLTEC

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Ceilings in sports halls must withstand significantly more impact than any other ceiling in a school building. Balls strike the ceiling surface or the fitted lighting fixtures with full force. It is therefore crucial that ball-impact-resistant systems ensure that all fitted elements remain securely in place.

The requirements for such ceilings are set out in DIN 18032. Verification is carried out in accordance with DIN 18032-3: this involves repeatedly throwing a handball at high speed at the suspended metal ceiling from various angles. A ceiling is only considered ‘ball-impact-resistant’ if no critical deformations occur and no components become detached or fall down. This test always includes all integrated fixtures, such as light fittings.

The TAIFUN product range meets all the requirements of this standard. It can be installed as either an expanded metal ceiling or a solid metal ceiling. With the right planning, acoustic requirements can also be met, ensuring good speech intelligibility and a noticeable reduction in noise levels within the hall.

Tested, seamlessly integrable luminaires from durlum complement the TAIFUN ceilings perfectly. They provide uniform, glare-free and shadow-free illumination and contribute to a harmonious overall appearance in the sports hall.

Recommended ceilings and luminaires:

• TAIFUN metal ceiling
• TANGENTA-Y100 luminaire

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Metal ceilings in covered outdoor areas, such as canopies or courtyards, are an aesthetic architectural design feature. At the same time, they must withstand high wind loads and a corrosive atmosphere, and comply with the relevant standards. 

Wind loads are determined individually for each building and each ceiling area in accordance with DIN EN 1991 (Eurocode 1). The requirements for corrosion protection are defined by DIN EN 13964, supplemented by the Technical Handbook for Metal Ceiling Systems (TAIM).

The tested and standardised S7 EXTERIOR system provides a metal ceiling that can be used as a closed external ceiling or an open expanded metal ceiling. It makes it easier for planners, architects and drywall installers to implement external ceilings reliably and in compliance with standards.

In addition to this standard system, other solutions, such as the POLYLAM vertical louvre system or a wide variety of grid ceilings, can also be adapted for protected outdoor areas to create bespoke, project-specific ceiling solutions.

Recommended ceiling:

• S7 EXTERIOR metal ceiling

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In Germany, school buildings are subject to specific fire safety requirements. These are set out in the relevant State Building Regulations (LBO), the Model Building Regulations (MBO) and the Model School Building Guidelines (MSchulbauR). These regulations stipulate that only non-combustible, flame-retardant or normally flammable materials may be used in building products.

The aim of these requirements is to reduce or completely prevent the spread of flames, the development of smoke gases, and burning droplets or falling debris from building components. The fire performance of construction products – such as metal ceilings – is classified in Germany according to DIN 4102-1 into building material classes and, at European level, according to EN 13501-1 into fire performance classes.

The European system comprises seven classes (A1, A2, B, C, D, E, F) and additionally assesses smoke development (s = smoke) and burning droplets or falling debris (d = droplets).

Our metal acoustic ceilings meet the A2-s1,d0 (non-combustible) classification as standard in accordance with EN 13501-1. This means: they are non-combustible, produce only minimal smoke and do not exhibit burning droplets.

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Good lighting plays a key role in successful learning. Well-designed lighting not only helps pupils to concentrate, but also contributes to the overall learning atmosphere and their well-being. As children and young people spend a large part of their day at school, the quality of the lighting has a direct impact on their performance. Modern, sustainable lighting management, using suitable luminaires and incorporating daylight, is aligned with the natural course of daylight, supports the circadian rhythm, makes learning easier and is tailored to the various areas within schools.

Classrooms

Flexible learning methods require room and lighting concepts that can be easily adapted to different teaching situations. Natural daylight forms the basis for this and is sensibly supplemented by artificial lighting with intelligent lighting management. It is important that the room is illuminated evenly and without glare to create consistent and comfortable lighting conditions.

According to DIN EN 12464-1, the illuminance should be at least 500 lux; in the early morning and evening hours, 750 lux is even recommended. In addition to general room lighting, vertical presentation surfaces such as blackboards, whiteboards or monitors must also be illuminated evenly and with sufficient brightness. For non-self-illuminating surfaces, the standard recommends a uniform, average vertical illuminance of between 500 and 750 lux, as well as a colour rendering index of at least R_a 80. On monitor screens, however, as little direct light as possible should fall on the screen to avoid reflections and glare.

Specialist classrooms

Practical classrooms and laboratories for science subjects, as well as workshops, art, music and media rooms, place special demands on lighting. They require a minimum illuminance of 500 lux; for art rooms, DIN EN 12464-1 even recommends a minimum of 750 lux. In subjects where precise colour perception is crucial, good to very good colour rendering (R_a ≥ 90) must also be ensured. Regardless of these specifications, glare-free, harmonious light distribution without disruptive shadows is essential in all specialist classrooms. Ideally, these should be equipped with lighting management systems that can be flexibly adapted to different teaching situations.

Assembly hall, lecture theatre, auditorium

The assembly hall is usually the largest room in schools and – much like lecture theatres and auditoriums at universities – is used for a wide variety of purposes. This requires a particularly flexible lighting system. Lecture halls and auditoriums with fixed, flat or slightly sloping seating can generally be lit in the same way as normal classrooms. However, where seating slopes steeply, more careful planning is required to ensure uniform illuminance and avoid glare.

For lecture theatres, DIN EN 12464-1 stipulates a minimum illuminance of 500 lux, although 750 lux is recommended. In the lecture and presentation area, the illuminance should even be between 750 lux and 1,000 lux.

Library

The heart of every library is the shelving containing books and other media. They should be illuminated with a uniform vertical illuminance of between 200 and 300 lux. In addition, good colour rendering of at least R_a 80 is recommended. In reading areas and at computer workstations, illuminance levels of between 500 and 750 lux promote concentration and well-being.

Staff room and office

In workplaces where reading and writing are the primary activities, an illuminance of 500 lux is required. In the staff room, a minimum illuminance of 300 lux is sufficient, whilst for photocopying areas or storage rooms, 100 to 300 lux is entirely adequate.

As staff rooms etc. are classified as workrooms or social areas, the Technical Rules for Workplaces (ASR A3.4), Workplace Regulations and the Occupational Safety and Health Act also apply here. Accordingly, direct and indirect glare from luminaires and daylight must be avoided.

Circulation areas

According to the standard, the minimum illuminance in corridors is 100 lux. However, during planning, care should be taken to ensure that the differences in brightness compared to adjacent areas are not too great, in order to guarantee comfortable and safe orientation. For safety reasons, staircases must be illuminated without glare and without harsh, long shadows. For educational establishments, the guideline value is 150 lux; however, 200 lux is recommended to ensure even better visibility and sure-footedness.

Cafeteria and canteen

Bright, light-filled rooms with plenty of natural light promote well-being and help pupils to relax. To complement natural light, a balanced, shadow-free and glare-free lighting scheme is recommended, ideally controlled via a lighting management system. DIN EN 12464-1 specifies a minimum illuminance of 200 lux for school canteens. However, counters, tills and serving areas should have their own lighting design, offering a higher illuminance level and high colour rendering to ensure food is presented attractively.

Sports hall

The varied use of sports halls requires flexible lighting control that allows for both high light levels and subtle lighting atmospheres. Crucial factors here are uniform, glare-free vertical and horizontal illumination with good colour rendering, as well as the use of luminaires tested to withstand ball impacts.

For school sports, a minimum of 300 lux is required in accordance with ASR A3.4 and DIN EN 12464-1. For club sports and competitions, DIN EN 12193 specifies illuminance levels of 200 to 750 lux, depending on the lighting class and sport.

Playground and car park

The focus of lighting in playgrounds is on safety and good orientation. Robust luminaires with a minimum rating of IP44 are suitable for this purpose, as they illuminate horizontal and vertical surfaces evenly and without glare.

Modern lighting, integrated into our metal ceilings

durlum is the ideal partner for building owners, architects and lighting designers when it comes to lighting for schools and other educational establishments. Our lighting solutions can be precisely tailored to any space – from classrooms and specialist rooms to sports halls and auditoriums – thereby creating optimal conditions for learning, well-being and safety at all times.

Another major advantage is that our luminaires can be seamlessly integrated into durlum ceiling systems. This means that planners and managers receive everything from a single source: efficient, well-designed and consistently reliable.

Lighting solutions:

• Light
• Ceiling-lighting integration

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In Germany, schools are subject to a number of legal and regulatory requirements regarding daylight. Many state building regulations stipulate that the window area must account for at least 10% of the room’s floor area. At European level, EN 17037 additionally defines quality criteria for daylight in buildings

Daylight enters the room primarily through the window areas. However, this presents two fundamental challenges: Firstly, illuminance decreases significantly as the room depth increases, resulting in uneven light distribution. Secondly, direct sunlight in areas close to windows often causes glare. The consequence is that the sun or glare protection is closed and artificial lighting is subsequently switched on, despite there actually being sufficient daylight available.

The solution lies in intelligent daylight management. Here, special reflective louvers, which also serve as sun protection, direct the incoming daylight in a controlled manner towards the ceiling. Highly reflective ceiling elements in the window area direct the light further into the room. To ensure that the illumination remains even, diffuse and glare-free, the elements intended to reach deeper areas of the room are specifically angled.

When combined with daylight-dependent artificial lighting control, this creates a particularly efficient lighting system: it significantly reduces energy consumption, improves light quality throughout the room and ensures a high level of visual comfort. This enhances the quality of the spaces and fosters a more pleasant, focused learning environment.

Recommended systems:

• Daylight control

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