This paper examines the audio - visual interaction and perception of a wide range of waterscapes where road traffic noise is audible. The waterscapes examined include small to medium sized water features that can be installed in outdoor settings (e.g. gardens and parks), in view of improving soundscape perception in terms of peacefulness and relaxation. The visual impact of the water features' displays has been examined using images of the displays placed over a single natural background, whilst auditory perception was based on the corresponding water sounds recorded in the laboratory. Audio only, visual only and audio - visual preference tests have been carried out under controlled conditions, in view of identifying the interaction between audio - visual factors. Qualitative analysis has also been performed using a semantic differential scale, in view of investigating how evocation and meaning might affect preferences.
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