ARC3403H F
Instructor: Brady Peters
Meeting Section: L9101
Synchronous
Friday, 3:00PM - 6:00PM

There is sound in architecture. Just as we cannot see architecture without light, we cannot hear architecture until there is sound. Through the sounds we make, we are in constant dialog with our surroundings. We hear not only the character of the sound source, but the character of the space we are in. Sound is shaped by the geometry and materiality of architecture. If sound is everywhere, why do architects so rarely consider sound as an important part of design?
 
This course prioritizes sound as an agenda for architectural design. This course is part historical investigation, part engineering calculation, and part design exploration. Through readings, discussions, lectures, research, and design exercises, participants will be introduced to the physical properties and behaviour of sound; they will have the opportunity to learn tools that will enable them to design for sound; and the course will introduce them to various theories of sound design. While many readings will be drawn from architecture and acoustic engineering, the course will also cover selections from the history of science, philosophy, cinema studies, music, and art.
 
This course introduces students to the theory, history, technology, and design practice of sound in space. Students will be given the opportunity to engage in individual research into the history and theory of designing spaces for sound, and sound for spaces. Students will be introduced to a variety of design tools, measurement apparatuses, and calculation methods to predict and analyze sound in and around architecture. It is a fundamental goal of the course to increase student's awareness of sound in architecture and the city, to become aware of tools and techniques used by architects and engineers in practice, and for students to develop their own repertoire of digital design tools for effectively analyzing and creatively exploring acoustic design concepts.