ABSTRACT
Worship spaces are usually meant to impress, and large – if not monumental – proportions are usually the chosen means. They are also meant to foster cohesion between members of the community by amplifying music, songs, and the officiant’s voice, for example. Acoustics can serve both purposes. But is reverberation time alone adequate for describing the acoustics of a worship space? This chapter outlines acoustic consultants’ challenges for a general readership without acoustic expertise. A brief review of a few physical acoustic parameters will be presented to help readers understand, followed by an equally brief review of some relevant psycho-acoustic attributes. The chapter will then examine a few interesting elements illustrated by examples (e.g. some typical standards and requirements applicable to worship spaces). Lastly, a few trends in the construction or renovation of worship spaces will be explored in terms of acoustics, with a conclusion addressing their impact on acoustic engineering.
