Soundscape as an element of the museological experience

case study at the Ipiranga

Abstract

Museums combine education, entertainment, and exhibition in the visitor experience. The soundscape in museological environments affects the interpretation of art and the spatial enjoyment. The acoustic characterization of these spaces is therefore justified, as it guides projects according to principles of acoustic comfort. This study aims to quantitatively and qualitatively assess the visitor experience in relation to the museum’s soundscape. The case study was conducted in the Noble Hall of the Ipiranga Museum in São Paulo city, on a day open to visitors, with acoustic measurements andquestionnaire application, according to ISO 12913 and a simplified method from the Brazilian standard NBR 10152. The results show an A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level averaging 61.3 dB, above the values recommended by the Brazilian standard for museums. Concerning the identification of perceived sound sources, most of the visitors identified sounds of human activities, whereas natural sounds were minimally perceived. Although the value was above the recommended level, the environment soundscape was evaluated as pleasant. This work contributes to future research and reinforces the relevance of the soundscape in museum projects.