2024 - ZenGlow

Our team of two students set out to design an acoustic panel for COA (Central Organ for Asylum seekers) meeting rooms. The goal was to improve sound quality and reduce noise pollution, enhancing the well-being of asylum seekers and employees by exploring the relationship between human psychology and design elements like geometry, color, materials, and light.

Site Visit and Observations
A site visit revealed poor acoustics and an unwelcoming atmosphere in the meeting rooms, exacerbated by harsh lighting. We identified the need for acoustically effective and calming designs to address these issues.

Design Approach and Goals
We aimed to create soundproof panels with interactive elements to regulate emotional reactions, promoting a calming environment. Our research focused on human psychology, exploring shapes, colors, and textures. The design aimed to block external noise while being visually soothing.

Material Selection
We explored various materials for the panels, emphasizing sustainability and sensory appeal. Front layers included bio-based materials like moss, cork, and dried grass for their natural appearance and calming effects, while the back layers were made of dense foam for sound absorption.

Sensory Elements
Smell: Scents like lavender, cut grass, jasmine, and sandalwood were considered for their calming effects, though individual preferences varied.
Sight: Colors like blue, pink, indigo, and green were chosen for their stress-reducing properties.
Touch: Natural, warm materials were preferred to enhance the tactile experience.
Sound: Nature sounds and pink noise were incorporated to mask distractions and promote tranquility.

Design and Construction
The design combined angular and curvilinear geometries for a balanced aesthetic. Panels were modular, with layers for aesthetics, sound absorption, and structural integrity. Mounting options included individual panels or a railing system for easier installation.

Prototyping and Testing
Prototyping involved testing material combinations, lighting integration, and mounting methods. LED lights were incorporated into the panels, ensuring easy connectivity and expandability.

Final Product

Acoustic Properties: Effective sound blocking with minimal diffusion.
Light Installations: LED strip systems with dimming and color alternatives.
Appearance: Calming visual effects with natural textures and integrated lighting.
Modularity: Expandable patterns for flexible installation.
Sustainability: Use of recycled and bio-based materials.

Our efforts detail the research, design process, and experimental findings, showcasing a solution that enhances the human experience in COA meeting rooms through lighting design and sensory integration.