HAMK SmartBio – built for sustainable research and acoustic performance
HAMK SmartBio is a newly completed laboratory building at Häme University of Applied Sciences, designed with a strong emphasis on sustainable bioproduction and multidisciplinary research. The university actively promotes business-oriented education and research initiatives.
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Equipment generating noise
Located within the Hämeenlinna Higher Education Centre, the SmartBio building has been gradually occupied since late November 2024. The two-storey, 1,800 m² facility houses laboratories for both teaching and research, with careful consideration given to workflow efficiency and safety. Approximately 60–80 HAMK staff and students work in the building.
Some of the equipment we use generates a considerable amount of noise, so acoustics were a key consideration.
“Overall, the new facilities are far more functional and technically advanced than the previous ones. In terms of the sound environment, some of the equipment we use generates a considerable amount of noise, so acoustics were a key consideration,” says Tuomas Salonen, Director of Real Estate Development.
The acoustic solutions had to be carefully coordinated with the building’s technical systems and the diverse equipment used in research.
A custom-printed Ecophon Akusto™ Wall C was installed in the staircase to enhance the overall sound quality.
To ensure ease of maintenance for technical systems, ceiling panels in the laboratories were installed using direct fixing.
Acoustic panels ensure a high-quality sound environment
Architect Anthon Timmerbacka of Renell Käppi Architects explains that the building includes several specialised and technically demanding laboratory spaces, arranged around a central, high-ceilinged atrium. One wall of the atrium features a digitally printed acoustic panel installation. A custom-printed Ecophon Akusto™ Wall C, with absorption class A, was installed to enhance the overall sound quality. Absorption class A is the highest rating, positively impacting sound levels, reverberation time, and speech clarity.
The colour palette was intentionally kept subdued to maintain focus on research activities. In addition to white, grey, and wood tones, various shades of green and turquoise were used in fixed furnishings, staff areas, and restrooms.
The acoustic solution had to be selected with precision to ensure it didn’t interfere with the laboratories’ technical requirements – functionality always came first.
Acoustic tiles aligned with technical systems
The acoustic solutions had to be carefully coordinated with the building’s technical systems and the diverse equipment used in research.
“The acoustic solution had to be selected with precision to ensure it didn’t interfere with the laboratories’ technical requirements – functionality always came first,” says Anthon Timmerbacka.
To ensure ease of maintenance for technical systems, ceiling panels in the laboratories were installed using direct fixing. Ecophon Master™ SQ panels were chosen for these spaces, meeting the required acoustic standards.
In the colourful restrooms, changing, and washing areas, Ecophon Hygiene Performance™ A was used. This ceiling absorber also holds an absorption class A rating and features a durable surface that can be regularly cleaned and disinfected.
Sustainable acoustics
A well-designed sound environment supports learning and enhances collaboration. Investing in a thoughtfully planned acoustic landscape improves concentration, facilitates communication, and reduces disruptive noise.
“The cooling equipment runs continuously and produces a steady background hum. Aside from that, it’s mostly the students who bring the energy – and the noise. I’m very pleased with the outcome,” concludes Santeri Savolainen, Laboratory Manager at Häme University of Applied Sciences.