Acoustic assessment of outdoor soundscapes through parametric facade design: Insights from Batna 1 university

Abstract

Serene outdoor environments promote well-being, offering reduced anxiety, better cognitive function, and therapeutic benefits. However, noise pollution from urbanization, construction, and transportation often disrupts this tranquility, affecting health, sleep, attention, and communication. The morphology of surrounding buildings significantly influences noise propagation in these spaces. This research investigates the impact of architectural morphology on acoustic characteristics in urban outdoor spaces of Batna city. Focusing on case studies at Batna 1 University, as a representative urban site, the study examines how façade design, building layouts, shapes, and configurations influence sound propagation and acoustic behavior. Additionally, it explores the effect of courtyard shape as a variable, assessing how different courtyard geometries impact acoustic parameters. The study is motivated by the lack of research in Algeria on the acoustic effects of building morphology in outdoor environments. Field measurements were conducted. Acoustic data collection involved using a starter clapper as the sound source to measure Reverberation Time (RT20), Early Decay Time (EDT), Speech Transmission Index (RaSTI), and Sound Pressure Level (SPL) attenuation. White noise produced by a directional speaker was used to analyze SPL attenuation across a broad frequency spectrum, with unweighted decibel (dB) values recorded to capture overall sound pressure levels. The findings reveal that building layout, enclosure degree, façade height, and courtyard shape significantly affect acoustic parameters. Higher façades and more enclosed layouts demonstrate longer reverberation times and distinct sound attenuation patterns. The geometry of courtyards further influences sound reflections and decay, highlighting its role in shaping outdoor acoustic environments. This research contributes to the understanding of outdoor sound environments by emphasizing the role of built environment morphology, offering valuable insights for architectural design and urban planning. The conclusions aim to provide generalizable knowledge beyond the specific case study, enriching the broader discourse on sound propagation in outdoor urban spaces.