Spatial Typology in Tabriz Bazaar based on the Soundscape

Soundscape is the perceptual quality of heard sounds. This study examines soundscapes of nine spaces of three special types in Tabriz Bazaar, Bazaars’ aisle (Rasteh), Malls (Timcheh), and stores (Sarai). The extant study aims to find how the soundscape of the three spatial types is perceived and how special features affect the quality of soundscapes of studied spaces. For this purpose, perceptual components of soundscape were surveyed by individuals who were present in the studied spaces of Tabriz Bazaar. This assessment was conducted based on scores given to perceived loudness of sound, acoustic comfort, noise source acceptability, and soundscape descriptors through the questionnaires filled out by 384 members. The research results indicated that the soundscapes quality of different spatial types of Tabriz Bazaar was affected by the environmental qualities, specifications, and sound sources. In static and unpopulated spaces that provide the possibility for pause and watch, the soundscape is more pleasant. Overpopulation usually reduces the perceptual quality of soundscape. The sounds with the sudden incidence in quiet spaces have a bad effect on the acoustic comfort and quality of soundscape due to the sound pressure level (SPL) difference. Therefore, a component called urban soundscape clarity must be considered in the studies conducted on the soundscape of quiet urban spaces. Moreover, sound source acceptability and quality of soundscape will be higher if the noise sources are matched with the acoustic expectations of users, in other words, the sounds heard in the space are consistent with its nature.