Personalised Soundscapes in Homes

Sound zone technology is being developed to provide users with the ability to modify their personal soundscape. In this paper, we take first steps toward studying how and when users could use sound zone technology within the domestic context. We present a design ethnographical study of sounds in homes and potentials for utilising sound zone technology to modify soundscapes. Based on two rounds of qualitative interviews with seven participating households of diverse composition, dwelling type, and area type, we develop a design-oriented framework. The framework posits particular situations in which sound zone technology can support domestic activities. These are described and validated through the qualitative data collected in the households. The framework consists of two dimensions leading to four generalised situations: private versus social situations, and separate versus connected situations. A number of implications for designing interaction with sound zone systems in homes are derived from the framework.