ABSTRACT
In 2019, the International Organization for Standardization published a specification for soundscape research, ISO 12913. Revisiting the World Soundscape Project’s conceptual constructs of soundscape, and drawing on research methods across the humanities, science and the arts, the specification is now commonly referred to as the ’soundscape approach.’ ISO 12913 specifies a methodology for investigating perception of soundscape in more meaningful terms than traditional noise control. Research findings can inform appropriate soundscape interventions (through design, policy, planning, etc.) that ultimately improve quality of life in the built environment. Increasing use of the soundscape approach for research in the public realm presents new professional opportunities for sound designers, such as collaboration with acousticians, architects, ecologists and extension of practice into soundscape design. Through participation in public-facing research events such as soundwalks, the soundscape approach is also an ideal context to raise awareness of the aesthetics of soundscape, and its value as a context for creative practice. Additionally, new insights from published studies where ISO 12913 is implemented can inform studio-based cinematic sound design, deepening understanding of soundscape perception to the benefit to screen-based and virtual reality projects.
