Influence of public space type on soundscape perception in the residential context

Abstract

Many studies have validated that soundscape quality will contribute to the satisfaction of public spaces. However, the requirements for a sound environment differ in different public spaces. Few studies focus on the difference among effects of soundscape on satisfaction in various types of public spaces in residential areas. Besides, the public space type may also moderate the effect of audio-visual environment on soundscape quality, which there may be a lack of existing studies. The present research aims to investigate the relationship among space type, audio-visual environment, and soundscape to improve satisfaction in public spaces. An on-site questionnaire survey was conducted in public spaces in residential areas, and 50 subjects participated in this survey. The correlation analysis showed that the audio-visual indicators affect soundscape perception in passive and active space differently. In particular, traffic noise may have a less negative effect on pleasantness in active space than passive space. Also, interesting visual elements may enhance eventfulness in passive zone while they may not affect eventfulness in active zone. The result of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) indicated that pleasantness is most important to people’s satisfaction in both passive and active spaces, while eventfulness is more critical in active than passive spaces.