Sounding Space

Integrating space and sound to create an engaging multidimensional environment is crucial in the creation of a workstation. By combining acoustic design with spatial considerations, workspaces can transcend traditional layouts, inspiring creativity and collaboration.

Sound, an imperceptible sensation that traverses space, plays a significant role in shaping our perceptions. It serves as a link between the visible realm and unseen forces. It can evoke emotions, trigger memories, and influence our mood, all while remaining an invisible companion in our daily lives. How might we explore the possibilities of interaction and experiential design to create comprehensive experiences that offer a novel understanding of sound as a physical phenomenon within a spatial context? Let us examine a fundamental instance of the sound produced by water when a frog splashes into a pond. The ripples that emanate from the point of impact create a series of concentric circles, each one gradually diminishing in size and intensity. This simple yet captivating phenomenon highlights the intricate relationship between living creatures and their environment, evoking a sense of tranquility and connection to nature.A haiku titled “Frog Ku” by the Japanese poet Matsuo Bashō depicts a frog in a pond, as well as a vision of an ancient pond that was exclusively imagined. The poem is about the noises of frogs leaping into water: “Furuikeyakawazutobikomumizu no oto” (Translated by D.T. Suzuki as “Into the ancient pond a frog jumps water’s sound!”) or “breaking the silence of an ancient pond, a frog jumped into water — a deep resonance.” -Translated by Nobuyuki Yuasa. This leads me to reflect on the immersive nature of Basho’s imagery in the haiku, which transforms the sound into an open-ended splash rather than a confined capsule. This vivid depiction of the body of water evokes a sense of vastness and continuity, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the experience fully. Through this lens, Basho captures a moment and a deeper appreciation for nature and its boundless beauty, engaging us in his poetic world.

Now, we’ll examine the connection between sound and space again in this situation, specifically to the pond. By focusing on how sound surrounds and penetrates water, we can create the impression of a space that is constantly changing yet remains unchanged in its physical properties. This dynamic interplay enables a unique acoustic experience where the gentle lapping of water, the rustling of leaves, and the distant calls of wildlife combine to form a rich tapestry of sound. As we listen closely, we can perceive how these auditory elements, shaped by the environment, transform the pond into a living entity that reflects the nuances of its surroundings.

A dynamic interaction exists between us and our surroundings. Our movement influences the space, which subsequently influences us. Sound, transmitted by water, transcends the auditory perception, transforming into a visual, physical entity that enhances our connection to the surroundings. Sound is not just auditory; it is also tactile, visual, and experiential, inviting us to engage with our environment in an active way.

The emergence of artificial intelligence and technological advancements seems to overshadow the sensory aspects of nature’s aesthetic language, as seen in the poetry of Basho. This shift raises questions about how we connect with the natural world in an increasingly digital age. While AI can analyze and replicate forms of expression, it often lacks the profound emotional resonance that comes from genuine human experiences in nature.The late 19th-century art and design movement, Art Nouveau, emphasized the harmony between man and nature. The flowing curves of flowers and tree branches inspired the painters and designers of this period to create art and valuable objects. This creative trend inspired architecture, interior design, and applied art. As a result, many works from this era showcase intricate patterns and organic forms that blur the line between functionality and aesthetic beauty. Art Nouveau not only celebrated nature but also sought to elevate everyday objects into extraordinary pieces of art.The Bauhaus believed that architecture and nature could achieve perfect harmony through mutual dependence and integration. Consequently, rather than concentrating on ornamental flowers, aesthetically pleasing to see, they endeavored to comprehend the “intrinsic essence of the landscape. This harmonious approach serves as a testament to the belief that buildings should not merely coexist with but rather integrate with nature. The legacy of Bauhaus continues to inspire contemporary architectural practices, urging us to consider how our designs can reflect and elevate the natural world around us.

At Cambridge Creation Lab, we encourage students to explore the contributions of sound artists to the aural design of public urban spaces. To ask questions such as: “Why is it crucial to include sound artists in this design process?” We encourage students to integrate sound art into their workspaces. By collaborating with sound artists, students can create immersive experiences that reflect the unique identity and culture of urban spaces. We encourage our students to prepare material and conceptual interventions that sound artists can apply, as well as several methodological strategies to analyze and reflect on the urban environment, determining whether actions are desirable and, if so, which ones will be most appropriate. Sound excursions, field recordings, and the development of sound maps can provide insight into both the dominant and obscured sounds. This comprehensive approach enriches their artistic output and enhances their ability to engage with, reflect upon, and ultimately contribute to the dialogue surrounding urban environments through the medium of sound.