Holistic acoustic concept in IT studio

Both maximum flexibility and soft acoustics are essential in multifunctional office and studio areas. These can be assured by well-designed, quality sound-absorbing surfaces.

Photo: Mark Niedermann Photography

It can be difficult or impossible to concentrate on work when one’s surroundings are too loud or there is simply too much distracting and annoying ambient noise. It was exactly this type of problem that the planners from ansgar staudt architects had in mind when they were fitting out an IT studio in Muttenz, in the Swiss canton of Basel-Landschaft, which borders Germany to the north. They used a holistic acoustic concept to create a remarkable sound room for efficient working.

In a vacant office complex and warehouse of some 200 m2, work, lounge, conference and assembly zones were created which are in close proximity to each other but have been cleverly separated by partition walls.

The main meeting room is in the centre of the space and separates the IT studio from the lounge area with kitchen unit – a layout which in itself optimises the room acoustics. There is another office area separated by partitions from the adjacent open plan area by the windows.

Electricity and IT media can be easily accessed in all areas via overhead ducts as well as flexible, fabric-covered cable ducts. Round lights spread evenly across the entire area to ensure consistent lighting.

The design solutions Troldtekt line and Troldtekt line design form a key part of the acoustic concept and constitute an essential element of the design. Many of the walls and ceilings are clad in grey elements. The acoustic panels are perfectly colour-matched to all surfaces, materials and media in the large space and offer a harmonious contrast to the dark brown wood finish floor.

Not only do these provide optimal acoustics and a pleasant indoor environment, but they also meet the highest fire and sound absorption requirements, and are furthermore sustainable. The acoustic panels are made of certified wood, a purely natural raw material, as well as cement extracted from Danish mineral resources.