To a large extent our practical work is founded on interdisciplinary research in the areas of acoustics, architecture and urban design, and evolutionary epistemology. Since 2003 we have been doing basic research, field research, and have been developing principles and methods making it easier to deal with the acoustics of an environment in a sustainable, more integrated way. All research projects have been initiated, conducted and – except for the field research in Paris in 2004 supported by a Swiss grant – funded by Sonic Atelier.

 




 

• Detailed investigation into the effect of different forms, patterns, proportions and materials of physical structures on the acoustical properties of environments (rooms, buildings, areas, and entire cities).

• Research on acoustical quality and the identity of spaces:
A detailed examination of the connection between the
(room-)acoustical quality of places and the character and identity they develop.

• Research on acoustical quality and safety:
A practically oriented investigation into the connection between the acoustical properties of physical environments and the ability of users to localize and identify other elements (people, traffic, built structures, animals, etc.) and to get their bearings in these environments.

• Research on acoustical quality and the use/functionality of spaces:
Research on the interrelation between the acoustical properties of spaces and their functionality resp. the way they are used and treated.
Furthermore: the connection between the acoustical properties of urban open spaces and their capacity ("perceived size"), and subsequently the diversity of their use (by different groups).

• Research on acoustical quality and the walkability of urban areas.

• Research on acoustical quality as a condition for concentration, creativity, open-mindedness, individual development.

• Development of new approaches and methodological tools that make it easier to deliver places of high acoustical and overall quality. The principal advantage of our methods is that instead of limiting results by predefining single numerical values that have to be met, they support a site- and situation-specific planning process enabling maximum overall improvement to be achieved.

Among others:

• Development of various non-absorbing prototypes for the design of room acoustics, e.g. for creating more acoustic transparency, strengthening the acoustic identity of areas, reducing noise, reducing/eliminating annoying room resonances and standing waves (including low frequencies). [In use already]

• Development of principles of alternative noise protection technologies for areas affected by traffic noise. Compared to existing barriers, these new technologies are in tune with sustainable urban design and would produce better acoustical results. [Still waiting for practical application]

• Development of a new technology for eliminating low-frequency noise and vibrations as are commonly produced by resonating machine parts. [In use already]

• Development of a new bearing technology for vibrating machines, minimizing vibrations transmission onto the floor and concurrently enhancing the machine's performance. [In use already]