Architectural Geometric Configuration as a Determinant of Acoustic Performance in Interdenominational Worship Centres

Abstract

Acoustic performance is a fundamental consideration in the design of worship centres because these spaces must effectively accommodate speech communication, musical expression, and auditory comfort. As such, architectural geometric configuration plays a significant role in determining sound propagation, speech intelligibility, reverberation behavior, and sound distribution. Despite advances in acoustic materials and electroacoustic reinforcement systems, comparatively limited attention has been given to evaluating how alternative architectural geometric configurations influence the acoustic performance of contemporary interdenominational worship centres.
This study comparatively evaluated the influence of architectural geometric configuration on the acoustic performance of contemporary interdenominational worship centres using a mixed-methods comparative case study approach. Five worship facilities representing centralized, irregular, fan-shaped, radial, and organic curvilinear configurations were purposively selected based on their distinct spatial forms, architectural documentation, and relevance to contemporary worship-centre design. Qualitative data comprised architectural drawings, floor plans, photographs, and published case-study documentation, while quantitative data comprised documented acoustic performance indicators reported in the literature, including speech intelligibility, reverberation behavior, sound distribution characteristics, and acoustic comfort.
The comparative analysis revealed that architectural geometric configuration significantly influences acoustic performance within worship environments. Centralized configurations promoted broad sound distribution but were more susceptible to prolonged reverberation in large enclosed spaces. Irregular, organic curvilinear configurations enhanced sound diffusion and created balanced listening conditions. In contrast, fan-shaped and radial configurations improved sound coverage and speech intelligibility by reducing the distance between the sound source and the congregation. Comparison with published acoustic measurement and computational simulation studies further supports the relationship between architectural geometry and acoustic performance. The study concludes that architectural geometric configuration is a fundamental design consideration in the planning of contemporary interdenominational worship centres. It recommends that geometric decisions be integrated with appropriate acoustic treatments from the earliest stages of architectural design to achieve acoustically responsive worship environments and enhance overall auditory experience.