The introduction of the concept of soundscape to urban design analysis

Abstract

The objective of this paper was to provide pragmatic approach through the analysis of Covent Garden Piazza's soundscape with intention to show the way of its implementation into urban design analysis, whereas analysis of soundscape is missing part of urban design analysis. So, soundscape suppose to be a new tool for designer to create more pleasant sound ambient environments not only for users who are able to perceive urban space visually but also for those who can use another senses only like aural and tactile to identify relevant quality of urban places. In this research were employed methods of subjective evaluation and spatial analysis of soundscape (entirely qualitative research). The data were collected through exploration of the soundscape preference and level of awareness of ambient sound environment within explorative single case study and thorough observation of activities on the study site and investigation of urban form. Thus, the urban uses and activities of the location and its acoustic identification are closely linked. Recent urban analyses generally take only human and technical noises into consideration, excluding the rest of noises of sonic environment and way of their perception by human beings. Acoustic dimensions must be available for design.