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increase likelihood of the project to meet the desired expectations. Example acoustic criteria and design targets are listed in Table 6.
Table 6. Common acoustic criteria
| Acoustic criteria category | Example design or performance target | Col3 |
|---|---|---|
| Acoustic criteria category | Acoustic criteria threshold | Threshold reference |
| Internally generated background noise | e.g., 35 dBA | e.g., ANSI S12.60–2010 |
| Externally intrusive background noise | Externally intrusive background noise | Externally intrusive background noise |
| Electronically generated masking sound | None | N/A |
| Outdoor acoustical environment | e.g., Daytime: 55 dBA, Nighttime: 50 dBA | e.g., local code |
| Airborne sound reverberation | e.g., 0.7s | e.g., AS/NZS 2107:2016 |
| Sound insulation | e.g., STC 45 | e.g., FGI Guidelines |
| Vibration insulation | e.g., IIC 50 | e.g., WELL Beta Feature Impact Noise Management |
| Impact noise | e.g., NISR | e.g., NISR |
PATH 2. ACOUSTIC CRITERIA FOR INDOOR AND OUTDOOR SPACES
This pathway builds off the mapping exercise in Path 1. It requires using generally accepted engineering practices to demonstrate the project design is likely to meet the acoustical expectations outlined for the space. The acoustical consultant will select calculations, modeling methods, or measurements as appropriate for the acoustic criterion. For example, if the acoustic criterion is internally generated background noise below 35 dBA, the project might calculate sound pressure levels or measure sound pressure levels in the completed space.
The acoustic environment is particularly important to consider when designing classrooms and other core learning spaces because it can affect students’ learning and teacher health and wellbeing. For this reason, to earn this path all classroom or core learning spaces must comply with the acoustic criteria defined in Path 1.
For other project types, more flexibility is provided for projects prioritizing better acoustics in targeted environments. 75% of the occupied spaces must comply with the acoustic criteria defined in Path 1.
Option 5. Lighting Environment
PATH 1. SOLAR GLARE
When designing spaces with daylight, solar glare must be considered, which can significantly disrupt visual comfort and impact thermal comfort. This means evaluating how natural light might create uncomfortable reflections on digital screens and potentially interfere with tasks requiring visual concentration.
U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, April 2025 Launch Edition 498