Catching sound with a... lamp

If you want to mute sound, it's best to do this as close to the sound source as possible. Above a workplace or conference table for example, or in the reception area of an office building. How nice would it be if you can do this with a stylish lighting object? Achieving two things at the same time.

Basotect-absorption foam is good material to catch sound with. A few well-placed Basotect-panels against the ceiling or the wall and the speech intelligibility improves instantly. They also can be made into acoustical office and room dividers, and even carpet, rugs and walkers absorbing disturbing impact sound. With the proper calculations, but mainly the proper placement of acoustical products the space becomes much more pleasant regarding speech intelligibility.

The dentist practise having a disturbing resonance for example. By assembling a few plates in the speaking direction between dentist and patient, we could eliminate most of the resonance. Both dentist and patient were satisfied: no more resonance, better intelligibility and a solution looking good in an aesthetical way as well. Improvements on multiple fields, but...

Wouldn't it be nice to be able to knit this sound absorbing material in all shapes - instead of just flat panels? To let designers run with it and realise their innovative 3D design in absorption foam - complete with light source? With my co-worker Jo Merckx I have developed a new technique to provide this.

Our 3D designs Beam, Donut, Globe, Stack, Macaron and Loop have been presented on the Architect@Work Rotterdam and London and on the Design Biënnale Interieur Kortrijk. They were very well received and we are proud of it! In several restaurants and other public places our designs can be seen already. In the meantime we continue to work on our collection, produce tailor made products and search for collaborations with designers and (interior) architects. Because we think every space doesn't only deserve pleasant acoustics, but also beautiful lighting!

Jeroen Oprinsen - Bazir 3D Acoustic Lighting Company and AKOESTIEK by CVOUSPLAIT