Designing with Sound as a Methodology to Reconnect Water, Culture and Heritage in Tetouan, Morocco

Abstract

This paper explores the use of soundscape design to reconnect the people of Tetouan, Morocco, with their cultural heritage as embodied in their historic skundo water system. Our understanding of soundscapes within this context was developed through an in-depth soundscape analysis within the medina of Tetouan that identified how the skundo system and its audible sounds are still present. To amplify the presence of the skundo system and raise awareness of the value of water, we used the system’s traditional clay pipes, with their audible and tactile qualities, as focal elements in our design interventions. Through the soundscape analysis, we designed interventions in several unique spaces that highlight the value of water within two possible future climate scenarios: one involving an abundance of water and the other its absence. Through these sound interventions, we aim to reconnect residents with their water and cultural heritage and emphasize the importance of sustainable water management while integrating local traditions.