Inhabit Sound
Urban Acoustic Sustainability
Sound is a fundamentally invisible entity - a variation of pressure transmitted through an elastic medium that becomes perceptible through our auditory system.
The hearing system is an essential element of our existence and cannot be turned off, is always active, however this does not necessarily mean that we are always aware of the sonic stimuli, as acoustics profoundly influence our subconscious.
Inhabit Sound represents a step forward in this direction, a significant initiative that combines the potential of architectural form in the context of sound, offering a unique opportunity for exploration to enhance the quality of life in cities.
To give sound an architectural and habitable form, SOS students with the support of Renzo Vitale – Sound creative designer BMW Group, have designed a sustainable, scalable, and modular space for listening, contemplation, and sharing. The shape of the acoustic pavilion was realized based on Fermat's double spiral by utilizing parametric design softwares such as Rhino and Grasshopper, transforming the mathematical form into a tangible architectural structure.
Throught the code, 28 arches were generated and rotated at their midpoints, at different angles. This process naturally created the double spiral shape, giving the pavilion a unique and evocative visual presence.
The Structure
The structure is realized using 28 thermoformed bamboo rods, selected for their strength and durability. The rods were shaped to adapt to the complex surface of the pavilion. Bamboo offers the ideal combination of lightness and strenght, being the perfect natural material for the sustainable construction of the pavillion. To ensure the stability of the structure, the bamboo rods are anchored to a wood platform by metal rod holders.
The base is made of raw chipboard panels and serves several key functions in the pavilion. Besides providing support for the bamboo arches, it houses all the wiring for the audio-visual system, seamlessly integrated into the design, enabling even distribution of sound and light within the pavilion, contributing to an engaging and immersive audiovisual experience.
The three layers of Snowsound acoustic fabric used in the pavilion's cladding were carefully cut to fit the complex shape of the structure. Each fabric layer was precisely crafted to follow the curves and geometries of the pavilion, creating a custom cladding. This approach allows the fabrics to harmoniously wrap the surface, ensuring a perfect fit. Through the layering of fabrics and the addition of an additional dense polyester layer in between, sound absorption is ensured even at lower frequencies. Therefore, Snowsound not only offers a unique aesthetic appearance but also plays an essential role in the optimal diffusion of sound within the space.
Inside the "Inhabit Sound" acoustic pavilion, users find themselves immersed in a unique sensory experience. The sounds of the city are amplified and modulated through the pavilion's acoustic design, enabling a deeper perception and appreciation of urban sonic environment providing also the opportunity to reflect and connect with one's acoustic environment, having sustainability as a fundamental guiding principle in architectural design. In fact, the project relied on the use of eco-friendly materials and techniques, such as bamboo, 100% recycled chipboard, and Snowsound acoustic fabric, known for its sound-absorbing properties and low environmental footprint. Additionally, the pavilion's modular and scalable approach allows for easy disassembly and reuse of materials.
Project Supervisor:
Renzo Vitale – Project Track Leader
Jacopo Panfili – Project Track Assistant
SOS Team:
Carlo Caire
Nicola Capozzo
Rubén Garrido Rizk
Flavia Torretta
Sponsoring Partner:
MINI | BMW Group
Renzo Vitale – Project Track Leader
Jacopo Panfili – Project Track Assistant
SOS Team:
Carlo Caire
Nicola Capozzo
Rubén Garrido Rizk
Flavia Torretta
Sponsoring Partner:
MINI | BMW Group