Ordinary sonic public space. Sound perception parameters in urban public spaces and sonic representations associated with urban forms

The research concerned ordinary sonic public space and every day's sounds. Sound perception parameters are analysed in urban public spaces in order to contribute to sonic ambiance knowledge. The research is based on a qualitative inquest conducted among thirty people. Three squares (with art, water, vegetation, sound of transport) are investigated. The inquest, based on the one hand on 180 questionnaires and 18 focus groups in situ and on the other hand on 30 individual interviews (in depth interview, sonic mind map) shows different parameters (temporal, spatial, sensitive and individual) concerning sound environment judgment. This qualitative inquest is correlated with acoustic measures at two seasons. The aim of this investigation is to analyze and define the parameters of sound perception in urban public spaces which is a current issue in urban planning. The inquest underlines the impact of city planning and urban furniture on sound perception in public urban spaces