Assessment of Acoustical Characteristics for Historical Baths (Hammams)

Abstract

Comprehensive studies are necessary to better understand the original acoustical characteristics of historical baths (hammams) in order to discover the historical technologies establishing acoustical properties in these structures and keep their proper functioning for long periods of time. The study was conducted on five historical Turkish hammams, belonging to the Ottoman period. Their acoustical performances were examined in terms of basic acoustical parameters, such as, reverberation time, early decay time, clarity, lateral fraction, sound transmission index. The 3D computer modelling and acoustics simulation were done for each structure by "ODEON combined 8.5". Their audio performance was evaluated by taking into consideration of the volume, materials use and environmental conditions. The analyses were done for the case of the unoccupied condition while one of the structures, Sengul Hammam in Ankara, was analysed both for non- and fully-occupied conditions. The joint interpretation of the results was done in order to define the acoustical features of the hammam structures. The potentials for improving the acoustical performance of interiors were also discussed. The use of 3D computer modeling and acoustical simulation, adapted for the case of historical hammam structures, provided a good opportunity for the assessment of their acoustical performance on quantitative basis.

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