The Süddeutsche Zeitung has recently published a detailed report on the City Soundscapes research project, an interdisciplinary initiative that investigates how cities sound and how consciously designing the acoustic environment can contribute to quality of life. The article examines how urban spaces are perceived acoustically, which sounds have a positive effect, and how cities can actively improve sound quality.
We are particularly pleased that Dr Thomas Kusitzky, acoustics consultant at Müller-BBM Industry Solutions, is also cited as an expert in urban sound design in this context. His many years of research and consulting work underscore our leading role in this field.
Urban sound design as part of urban planning
Sound has an effect – on health, quality of stay, orientation, sense of security and identification with a place. Modern urban planning therefore not only takes noise reduction into account, but also the targeted design of soundscapes, i.e. the entire acoustic environment.
Müller-BBM's expertise in this field has been an integral part of our range of services for many years.
Our team investigates:
- How open spaces, squares and paths sound
- How desired sound qualities can be developed
- How acoustic elements contribute to the design of liveable neighbourhoods
- How planning offices, architectural firms and local authorities can integrate acoustic factors at an early stage
Proximity to research and practical knowledge
Dr Thomas Kusitzky has been involved in scientific and practical work on these topics for many years. He is the author of the book ‘Urban Sound Design – Conditions for a New Approach to Design, Planning and Development’, which makes a fundamental contribution to acoustic urban development.
The mention of our colleague in the SZ article shows the relevance and future-oriented nature of this field – and confirms the high priority that sound quality now has in urban development.