Architectural heritage interventions often preserve visual form while leaving acoustic memory and everyday sound practices outside the design brief. This article positions soundscape as an architectural material for heritage media architecture and tests it through Sanggar Kungfu Kapasan, a historic Chinese-diaspora kampung in Surabaya, Indonesia. The research combined contextual and soundmark mapping, Pepper’s Ghost prototyping, architectural translation of a semi-transparent virtual layer, and comparative evaluation using 2D visualization and immersive VR. After deduplication, 37 participants evaluated the 2D material, 31 evaluated VR, and 24 completed both modes for within-subject analysis. VR significantly improved perceived physical quality (Δ = +0.46, p = 0.0007, d_z = 0.80), communication quality (Δ = +0.42, p = 0.0218, d_z = 0.50), and overall evaluation (Δ = +0.20, p = 0.0285, d_z = 0.48). Sound-specific VR ratings were positive for place-meaning support (M = 5.87) and scene formation (M = 5.65), and the soundscape design index correlated with communication quality (r = 0.47, p = 0.007). The findings show that soundscape strengthens narrative legibility and architectural fit when deliberately coordinated with visual layering, scene sequencing, and cultural context. The study contributes a soundscape-informed, feng shui-readable workflow for pre-installation evaluation of multisensory heritage interventions. Because the respondent pool was predominantly composed of architecture students, the results are interpreted as a preliminary design-user evaluation rather than community validation.

Urban sound events in Indonesian cities, particularly Sound Horeg, generate amplified sound and low-frequency vibration that challenge environmental quality, public health, and the design of event spaces. Aims: This systematic literature review examines architectural and electroacoustic interventions that can mitigate urban noise while sustaining the cultural use of temporary celebration spaces. Methodology and results: A comprehensive database search using VOSviewer criteria identified relevant works on electroacoustic interventions in festive or transitory architectural environments from 2014 to 2025. These projects showed the use of modern electroacoustic technologies and modular, adaptive pavilion designs for real-time acoustic modulation. Context-specific techniques for sustainable, culturally appropriate soundscapes included noise mitigation, community engagement, and respect for local traditions. Conclusion, significance, and impact study: The findings enhance occupant acoustic comfort in celebratory spaces while preserving cultural values and advancing the integration of electroacoustics and architecture. The insights promote inclusive, safe, and resilient urban event spaces and support Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).