Application of soundscape methodologies in an acoustic consulting context

Abstract

Understanding environmental sound from subjective perspectives is important for comprehending sound qualities beyond physical parameters. Soundscape approaches are promoted as valuable frameworks for understanding subjective experiences of environmental sound. However, the application of such approaches in acoustic consulting environments is limited and the demonstrated value is unclear. This study investigates the applicability of soundscape methodologies in a corporate consulting context. In this paper we summarise available soundscape methodologies and their known challenges, and test the application of select methods, including sound mapping and soundscape descriptors, in different acoustic consulting settings at Arup. Through practical application, we explore the contexts in which soundscape approaches may be used to document, assess and describe sound environments. We review barriers and limitations experienced through application, such as training, project constraints and the need for project-specific methodology adaptation, and discuss values that emerged, including an enriched understanding of sound qualities not otherwise captured through conventional acoustic approaches. We position this research as a step towards developing a soundscape toolkit for acoustic consultants and argue that the incorporation of a soundscape perspective in acoustic consulting is necessary to expand the ways in which we understand environmental sound and its effects on those within it.