Urban noise is pervasive. To tackle it, the district of Berchem in Antwerp is turning to a blend of technology, community input and natural ambiance. District mayor Evi Van der Planken is spearheading a pilot project that will use water fountains to mask the incessant 60-decibel noise emanating from surrounding transport arteries, creating a quiet zone inside the neighborhood's Brilschans Park.
The project places residents and audio experts at the center of its design process. Multiple configurations of fountain sounds will be tested in situ using speakers, allowing for community feedback on which version best mitigates intrusive traffic noise. The initiative is a collaboration between the city of Antwerp, Ghent University and Aifoon, a Ghent-based art collective specializing in sonic experiences. Noise-cancelling fountains aren't the only audio initiative the Belgian city is working on; it's also calling on residents to submit and a sound they believe characterizes Antwerp.
