Frost Museum of Science

Conceived by Grimshaw Architects, this space for scientific discovery is also highly sustainable—it sports wind, rainwater, solar, and plant based energy solutions. Acentech provided acoustics consulting services to designers at Rodriguez and Quiroga, the architect of record for this project.

The Frost Museum of Science showcases three major features: an open-air, multi-level atrium, a 250-seat spherical planetarium, and the Living Core, which is a 4-story structure with a 500,000 gallon saltwater aquarium slicing through its top three floors. The massive mechanical systems required to operate an aquarium of this size required specific attention from Acentech’s acoustical consultants.

Extensive noise and vibration control reduced the likelihood of disturbances to the aquarium’s sealife and visitors. Strategic placement of absorptive finishes throughout exhibition spaces and the main atrium mitigate potential sound build-up concerns in high traffic areas. With a keen understanding this museum’s unique components, Acentech provided solutions to these challenges without sacrificing the overall aesthetic feel of these spaces.

As a welcoming place for children, adults, and everyone in between, the Frost Science Museum has seen a huge wave of support from the community. Within its first year, it welcomed more than one million visitors to see and learn about everything from distant constellations to Miami’s saltwater ecosystems.