Creating outdoor furniture that studies sound in society combines functionality with acoustic research, offering a unique way to explore urban soundscapes. Start by selecting materials that absorb or reflect sound, such as wood, metal, or specialized acoustic panels. Incorporate built-in microphones or vibration sensors to capture ambient noise, transforming benches or tables into interactive sound-mapping tools.
Consider the placement of your furniture in public spaces to analyze social interactions or environmental noise. For a DIY approach, repurpose recycled materials to build modular seating with embedded sound-recording devices. Pair your design with open-source software to visualize data, revealing patterns in how sound shapes community dynamics.
This fusion of design and acoustics not only enhances public spaces but also fosters awareness of noise pollution and social connectivity. Experiment with shapes that direct or diffuse sound, creating furniture that’s both artistic and scientifically insightful.