Last week, I enjoyed a nice chat with Chicago Tribune Architecture Critic, Blair Kamin. Here’s his article on the positive function of sound in the design and experience of urban spaces.

To summarize, rather than bemoaning excessive noise in the city, acoustic ecology studies how sounds function to mediate communication of individuals within their environment. This understanding requires both art and science.

With it we are able to consider the consequences of our actions, be they in the design and construction of our environment, transportation, entertainment, or other endeavors.