Human hearing is an extremely sophisticated and fragile organ.
In the past we were vulnerable to hearing trauma. Today, thanks to the revolutionary sound conditioning treatment, we are able to immunise our hearing to damaging levels of noise.
This is an old footage from a sound conditioning research lab showing the effects of the treatment on humans. Although initially intended to prevent hearing damage, sound conditioning treatment proved to be an exciting process in itself. It is often compared to an accelerated bungee jump, because of the rapid adrenaline rush it triggers. Now it has became increasingly popular among extreme sports enthusiasts, who dub it “blasting”.
At DAFT Institute, the Human Behaviour Unit is particularly interested in the future. To investigate into the opportunities arising from hearing immunity, they develop scenarios and analyse them. The results of their work provides a fresh insight into human behaviours and needs.
The Acoustic Amusements Centre is a proposal for building an arena for blasting sports. It is DAFT's design response to the emerging need for regenerating urban areas affected by noise pollution. Because blasting requires high quality sound insulation, the close proximity to the third Heathrow runway will not affect the Centre. The facility will consist of a scene for blasting shows, blasting booths for private experience, International Blasting Association offices and a sound conditioning research laboratory. Considering the current popularity of blasting in the world, the Centre should be seen as a serious financial opportunity as well.
The Acoustic Amusements Centre is the next milestone in our relationship with the hearing. DAFT believes that blasting can be progressed from a minor technological spin-off into a paying off entertainment venue. This is an informed trade-off between our progress and our hearing.
