Peran Informasi Audial dari Elemen Ruang Arsitektural dalam Proses Wayfinding Bagi Tunanetra

Abstract

Title: The Role of Audial Information from Architectural Space Elements in the Wayfinding Process for the Visually Impaired

Architecture serves as a multisensory medium that engages multiple senses to create spatial experiences. Although sight is often dominant, the involvement of sound, touch, smell, and taste enriches the way humans interact with space. Visual limitations make sound an important source of spatial information. This study examines the responses of visually impaired individuals to auditory information from architectural elements and investigates how auditory elements in architectural spaces can support their wayfinding. Three public locations in Jakarta were selected due to their distinct spatial characteristics: Kendal Tunnel (semi-enclosed space), Suropati Park (open green space), and Menteng Park (urban public space). The research was conducted through noise level measurements (decibels), observations, interviews, and sound-based spatial simulations. Auditory information, such as echoes, footsteps, sound reflections from walls, as well as environmental elements like fountains and vegetation, can serve as important spatial cues in shaping spatial perception and direction for those who do not rely on vision. The study results indicate that responses to auditory information vary across locations. Menteng Park showed the highest success rate in recognizing sound direction (7 out of 8 respondents), compared to Kendal Tunnel and Suropati Park (3 out of 8 each). Visually impaired individuals also demonstrate improved adaptation to acoustic environments over time, particularly in locations with more directional sound characteristics and minimal noise interference.