Brent Cross Town, the £5 billion, 180-acre regeneration being delivered in joint venture by Argent Related and Barnet Council, will be the first major development in the UK where a sophisticated approach to music and sound is influencing both its design and operations.
The bespoke sound framework, developed in collaboration with Dr Julia Jones – AKA ‘Dr Rock’– of JLP Consultancy, is an important part of Brent Cross Town’s overall pledge to be a place where people can flourish. The strategy sets out a framework for the design, infrastructure and ongoing operational requirements in both public spaces and buildings, required for sound and music to benefit workers, residents and visitors – ensuring a positive sound environment for all.
Often considered by developers only in terms of mitigating ‘bad’ noise, sound is in fact a critical part of promoting human wellness, and its place in a new neighbourhood like Brent Cross Town will have many positive impacts. In November 2019, the World Health Organisation officially recognised the health value of music, following a review of over 2,000 research studies: music reduces stress, increases serotonin and dopamine to improve mood and helps the brain learn.
Brent Cross Town will have sound built into its very fabric. Key locations will be mapped out for positive sound creation opportunities, while others will use sound to mitigate existing negative noise. Quality audio and associated digital and sustainable power networks will be built-in to public spaces and spaces will be created specifically for performance and collaborative sound production activities. Natural sounds such as birdsong, subtle insect noise and the sound of water will also be protected and amplified by specific planting and landscaping areas.
Supporting Brent Cross Town’s goal of enabling high performance at work, office buildings will take a unique approach to sound: natural materials will reduce disruptive acoustics; stairwells will be programmed with pleasant soundscapes to ‘nudge’ employees to use them; and designated areas will be designed to accommodate both quiet meditation and music. Argent Related will also work closely with office occupiers to develop bespoke sound and music programmes aimed at enhancing wellbeing and productivity within their workplaces.
Residents will have homes designed for sound, music and good acoustics. Some spaces will include technology to access live-streamed activities such as music lessons, guided meditation or yoga.
The public spaces will be programmed with activities to bring residents together socially and provide them with formal and informal learning and performance opportunities, contributing to a sense of belonging and purpose. Sound and music will also be part of the activities and events programme that will bring the community together and contribute to their health and wellbeing.
Nick Searl, Partner of Argent Related and Joint-Lead of Brent Cross Town, says: “Brent Cross Town’s sound and music strategy is an exciting concept and one that we are really proud to debut in the UK. In setting out our vision for Brent Cross Town, we have been very clear in our mission to create a flourishing new town centre for London that values the wellness of both communities and individuals. We are fortunate that Brent Cross Town is already home to 50 acres of parks and public spaces. Our ambition is to enhance the benefits of being in these spaces by consciously layering in sound and music and enhancing our sensory experiences.”
Councillor Daniel Thomas, Leader of Barnet Council, commented: “Argent Related continue to bring innovative ideas and initiatives that will make Brent Cross Town like no other area in London or the UK. The music and sound strategy is one of the unique ways Brent Cross Town will deliver on its vision to make Barnet’s new park town a place where everyone can flourish.”
Dr Julia Jones, Partner, JLP Consultancy, added: “In terms of how we experience our environments, sound is a vital sensory source. Its full potential is often overlooked. We know that music has been at the heart of human life for tens of thousands of years. It triggers a multitude of identified responses in the brain that can enhance wellness and is a valuable health tool when used appropriately. Brent Cross Town will ensure that sound and music (including the sound of silence) is embraced with consideration to enhance the lives and wellbeing of everyone. I hope this innovative approach that is being promoted so positively by Argent Related becomes standard practice in future developments.”