A new chapter for Eiterfeld
Just in time for the start of the 2025 school year, pupils moved into the newly-built Lichtbergschule in the Hessian town of Eiterfeld, Germany. The comprehensive school complex represents one of the district’s most significant recent investments. Construction became necessary after structural assessments confirmed that the original reinforced concrete building could no longer be repaired. Following a Europe-wide competition, the project was awarded to architects and engineers Trapp Wagner.
From the outset, both the district of Fulda and the planning team placed strong emphasis on school acoustics, with particular focus on speech intelligibility and musical performance. A range of Rockfon acoustic solutions, including ceiling tiles and ceiling baffles, were installed throughout the building by specialist installers Damian Werner.
Over 500 acoustic ceiling baffles
In the large auditorium, more than 500 frameless Rockfon Contour baffles were installed to support noise control. Three different sizes were used to respond to the geometry and acoustic needs of the space.
A distinctive feature is the vertical arrangement of the baffles along the glass façade. Here, the baffles were mounted onto custom-made MDF strips fixed vertically to the structure. Two dedicated clips per baffle ensure a secure and pressure-resistant connection between the absorber and the wall.
The strips were produced by a joinery workshop and tailored precisely to the required dimensions and angles. The lower edge of the baffles sits 2.2 metres above floor level, while additional elements were suspended from long-span beams beneath the auditorium ceiling. In total, the auditorium includes 372 baffles measuring 1200 × 600 mm, 128 measuring 1000 × 300 mm, and 20 measuring 1800 × 600 mm.
Learning spaces designed for clarity
Beyond the auditorium, acoustic solutions were integrated across corridors, classrooms, staff areas, and sanitary spaces.
Rockfon Tropic white acoustic ceiling tiles were selected for classrooms, staff rooms, and corridors. Their smooth, matte white surface supports sound control in busy environments while maintaining a clean, neutral aesthetic suitable for everyday learning.
In the music classrooms, the acoustic ceiling tiles Rockfon Blanka Bas were chosen to support balanced sound reflection, helping to create lively yet controlled acoustic conditions. Its ultra-matte, ultra-white surface enhances light distribution, contributing to bright and comfortable interiors while supporting focused learning and creative activity.
A lasting foundation for learning
From focused classrooms to shared and musical spaces, sound is controlled in a way that supports clarity across age groups and activities. With a studied acoustic strategy integrated throughout the building, the school is equipped to serve generations of pupils, supporting outstanding learning conditions.
