Acoustic Wall: Computational and Robotic Design Integration of Four Primary Generators

This study pursues the idea and potential of designsteered convergence processes, using the assembly of
a limestone acoustic wall as a ‘vehicle’ for exploring the
integration of computational search methods, pattern
expressions, acoustic simulation and collaborative
robotics in design and making processes that are
then tested and compared in terms of their acoustic
performances. The work was initiated from visual and
acoustic observations at Piazza San Marco in Venice,
Italy, and the Antalya-Demre Limestone Quarry in Turkey.
Venice has an impressive display of articulated
limestone, where the combination of colour nuances,
geometries, patterns and stone erosion provide the
unique characteristics that attract thousands of people
to the city every year (fig.1). While it is reputedly the most
visited square in the world, Piazza San Marco is also
posited to be one of the most quiet, due to the lack of
traffic and the acoustic properties of the stone used
in the buildings (Horowitz, 2013). In the case of Turkey,
upon invitation to the Istanbul Design Biennale, we were
brought into direct contact with the Antalya-Demre
Limestone Quarry, which provided a unique opportunity
to study, explore and identify integrated design
processes, including acoustics, limestone, design
computation, brick patterns and robotic fabrication
processes.