CitySounds 2.0: An acoustic design resource

The resource includes guidance on site and building layout, materials and construction techniques for all building components that influence the auditory qualities of a dwelling.

CitySounds 2.0 features an interactive simulation of a virtual apartment where users can hear real city sounds and find information on acoustic design and construction to reduce the impact of internal and external noise.

By using this program participants can:

• select a range of building and design treatments for their home
• see illustrations and examples of design showing improved acoustic treatments and hear how these can positively reduce noise intrusion and,
• access fact sheets that cover a range of building features, apartment planning, acoustic and construction terms, audio equipment selection, air conditioner installation and noise paths.

A hotspot icon identifies architectural features in each room of the virtual apartment. Users click the architectural features to view:

• interactive solutions to show construction techniques of architectural features to achieve better acoustic design
• other solutions to alleviate the impact of noise such as carpet, increase in the density of walls, single or double glazing for windows and
• sounds to show comparative quality between acoustic design and acoustic treatment solutions.

CitySounds 2.0 was developed for the City of Melbourne.

Key people

Project team

• Lawrence Harvey
• Tim Kreger
• Yamin Tengono
• Jerome Frumar
• Foo Chi Sung
• Jim Fowler (Graeme Harding and Associates)