Auralization as a design tool to support wayfinding for the blind and visually impaired community

People with vision loss rely on acoustic cues and feedback to navigate their environment. In design for this population, it is important to consider what information the acoustic response of a cane tape or other impulse can provide without visual context. Architectural interventions and design strategies such as changes in sound absorbing and reflective finishes, volume, or focusing geometry at key locations can significantly improve the efficiency of navigation and overall comfort for the visually impaired. These strategies can be difficult to implement or modify late in design or after construction. They should be considered early in the design process and iterated as the project evolves. An effective design tool to assess the efficacy of architectural interventions for aural wayfinding is an ambisonic acoustic simulation, or auralization. This paper presents multiple auralization methods used in the Arup SoundLab® throughout the design process, including stationary and mobile (real-time) listener simulations. Analysis performed for the renovation and co-location of the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the Indiana School for the Deaf is used as a case study for discussion. High level findings, lessons learned, and preferred design strategies are also presented. [Work supported by Chris Downey, Architecture for the Blind, and RATIO Architects].