A is for Architecture Podcast Fiona Smyth: Architecture and the history of acoustics.
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Dec 11, 2024 Fiona Smyth, an Assistant Professor in Architectural History and Theory at the University of Cambridge, delves into the fascinating relationship between architecture and acoustics. She highlights her groundbreaking book, discussing how buildings can function as musical instruments. Fiona explores the intersection of science and music in architectural design, revealing historic collaborations that shaped acoustic understanding. She also touches on wartime challenges in acoustical design and the evolution of testing methods blending technology with human insight.
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Occultists in Acoustics
- Fiona Smyth was surprised to find occultists involved in early 20th-century architectural acoustics.
- Their interest stemmed from the desire to quantify intangible, experiential aspects of sound.
Tuning by Ear
- Early acoustic tuning involved aural assessments and adjustments within existing buildings.
- This evolved into more formalized experiments to quantify the interplay of sound and space.
Albert Hall Tuning
- When the Proms moved to Albert Hall during WWII, the hall's acoustics were tuned incrementally.
- Materials like cables from barrage balloons and gypsum were used due to wartime shortages.