The term “soundscape” is similar to “landscape”, but deals with the auditory senses. One’s perspective of a city’s soundscape is in part dependent on the listener’s viewpoint and how aware they are to the sounds around them. Sounds emanate from people, animals, mechanical and industrial equipment, and transportation systems. Some sounds are pleasant and useful; some sounds are noisy and detrimental. Where and how do we achieve privacy and freedom from distracting noises? How can we manage to achieve a level of calm and quiet within the hectic din of the city’s soundscape environment? On this walk, you will experience the sights and sounds of downtown San Francisco as you never have before.

Tour led by Dennis Paoletti, FAIA, FASA, of Shen Milsom & Wilke.