This project's research topic of it is how to use sound as media to analyze and reshape sites. It seeks to turn issues of noise into opportunities for social and cultural improvement and to rebuild urban ecology by rethinking the relationship between sound and the environment, as well as between sound and perception. By studying the dynamic relationship between sound, the city, people, and wildlife, a flexible strategy can be developed to provide suitable habitats, public realms, and cultural programs. It is currently difficult to hear birdsong in urban conditions, as birds find it challenging to locate suitable habitats within the crowded city. Additionally, their "song" is often drowned out by the loud, low-frequency urban noise. As we step into the Anthropocene, the relentless expansion of industrial and urban areas makes the earth sound much louder than it did during other times in the earth's history.
After conducting research in different areas of Manhattan, I found that the city's soundscape can be classified into three types: natural, cultural, and noise. While cultural and natural soundscapes are prevalent throughout the city, the dominance of cultural and noisy sounds can lead to a lack of sensitivity towards natural sounds. This has resulted in many individuals choosing to block out their acoustic environment. Despite this, the different soundscapes still represent various aspects of the city, including its ecology, culture, and history.
The primary study area for this investigation is 42nd Street in Manhattan, a historically iconic street connecting the Hudson River and East River. As a witness to Manhattan's history, 42nd Street combines both historical urban fabric and innovative design. The different spaces along 42nd Street create rich ecological and cultural soundscapes, including the green spaces of Tudor City Green, Bryant Park, Hudson River Waterfront, and the vibrant human realm of Times Square and Grand Central Station. While these spaces work well together, the balance between them is being lost as humans take the main role in the environment.
Based on the previous site analysis, I envision transforming 42nd Street into a corridor interweaving soundscapes and ecological spaces. Six different ecological spaces will be set up along the street to provide habitats for different species. Vehicles will be removed from the street while existing spaces and activities will be preserved, improved, and extended. New activities and installations will also be introduced, presenting different spatial forms and soundscapes at different times and seasons.