Nathalie Harb
“The Silent Room”, 2018
Architecture: BUF architecture
Sound Conception: Khaled Yassine
Construction: Opsis Design
Visual Identity: Joseph Kai
<The Silent Room> is an immersive art installation created by Nathalie Harb to explore the impact of noise pollution on human emotions. The installation is located on the rooftop of the historic landmark Somerset House by the Strand and is open to the public for free. Its creative concept is to provide users with a “cocoon-like environment” by isolating external noise, helping people seek a moment of tranquility in a bustling city.
Nathalie Harb is a Lebanese architect/designer focused on exploring urban environments through architecture and spatial design. Her work often centers around color, materials, and acoustic design, addressing noise pollution, mental health, and reflections on urban public spaces.
<The Silent Room> series critiques the neglect of noise pollution affecting vulnerable groups (such as low-income communities) in urban planning and calls for attention to the impact of sound environments on mental health; it also emphasizes the necessity of establishing quiet “mental sanctuaries” in contemporary cities. Regardless of background or status, silence belongs to everyone, providing a quiet luxury space for the public.
