An Approach to Establish the Acoustic Field

Abstract

Acoustics, field of knowledge that studies sounds, was created from different disciplines. This paper highlights the contribution of architecture in acoustic studies, notably from the relation established between the form and sound quality, and the contribution of sound within urban landscapes. The importance of observing and listening to sound production within a cultural context is emphasized. To do so, the article describes, in chronological order, how scientific knowledge and technological development has contributed to the change of urban soundscapes and production of architectural spaces. The starting point is the Greek theaters, the dawn of Western civilization, the first years of the 20th century when acoustics was established as a science, its direct application to the design of concert halls, and the evaluation of urban noise pollution. Finally, we discuss the mid-twentieth century when the neologism “soundscape” was created and the awareness of sound production as a cultural representation.