The sounds we encounter indoors play a significant role in the liveability of a building. A recent study, "Measuring, representing and analysing indoor soundscapes," offers insights into the world of indoor acoustics and on complexities of indoor soundscapes in residential buildings.

The focus is on sounds and its link with natural and mechanical ventilation: this is a topic that will become of great importance in building renovation with the introduction of ventilation machines.

Key insights from the study:

1. The research provides a methodology for evaluating and representing indoor soundscapes, crucial for understanding the acoustic quality of indoor spaces.
2. The relationship between indoor soundscapes, comfort, and content is explored.
3. Different ventilation strategies impact indoor soundscapes.
4. When assessing indoor soundscapes, factor such as the perception of traffic noise and window opening affect the comfort of the indoor environment.
5. Beyond acoustics, other factors like floor level, perceived air quality, and air temperature also influence indoor soundscapes.

The world of indoor soundscapes is indeed intricate.