design a space based on sound

Aural Architecture Remains Unrecognized and Unappreciated

Why has the concept of aural architecture not yet become a major component of those professions that Aural Architecture????

concern themselves with designing space? Even if we accept the importance of the aural architect, we

are still faced with the observation that across cultures and throughout history, there is no evidence that

this function was ever recognized. There may not be a single explanation, but the following suggestions

contribute to the answer. 

Firstly, the aural architecture of a space cannot be experienced without also

having dynamic events that produce sounds and inhabitants who complete the aural architecture. The

designers are only part of the committee of architects who determine the aural experience. 

Second,

sound is ethereal, instantly disappearing and even now there is essentially no good means to record the

aural experience of a space. In contrast, the visual representations can be captured with graphic sketches

and photographs. Cultural racketing (the building on the works of previous generations) is not possible

with aural architecture. 

Thirdly, for most people, the aural memory of a space and the vocabulary to

describe that memory are weakly developed. This may in fact be an evolutionary artifact. As with many

abilities, we evolved an ability to use a skill, but without necessarily being able to consciously describe

how we use it. 

And fourthly, as a profession, prominent architects are rewarded with prizes based on

their visual portfolio, and they in turn train the next generation of architects to focus on the visual

experience of a space. The judges of such prizes would have to travel to a space and would therefore

have to select sonic activities in order to experience aural architecture.