For a workspace to have a pleasant and stimulating effect, certain basic conditions are necessary, such as visual structuring, lighting, color and material design, and good acoustics. For people with impairments, such as visual or hearing disabilities, these factors are even essential for effective use.
In the context of TUECHTIG, the project focused on developing two- and three-dimensional spatial elements that, through their visual, tactile, and acoustic properties, significantly improve the working, communication, and stay conditions for the aforementioned groups, while also catering to the needs of non-disabled users.
The starting point was the development of textile acoustic surfaces using the tufting technique. Unlike industrial tufting in carpet production, hand tufting allows a high degree of freedom in designing surfaces, both in terms of materials and colors as well as their three-dimensional tactile qualities. In the case of sound-absorbing surfaces, the density, structure, and length of the wool yarns used have a direct impact on the damping of background noise, which is particularly important for people with hearing impairments. Additionally, these surfaces can be combined with color schemes that have emotional and cognitive effects. Warm colors, such as reds, are considered stimulating and are therefore suitable for corridors or meeting rooms, while blue and green shades are relaxing and better suited for café or lounge areas. Yellow promotes concentration and is ideal for workspaces. Clearly distinguishable color elements also serve as effective (even subconscious) visual signals for people with visual impairments.
Beyond the two-dimensional acoustic elements, three-dimensional triangular spatial objects were developed to further enhance the use of the space. Suspended freely, they create a kind of “room within a room,” providing additional shielding from external noise and allowing, for example, undisturbed phone calls. Depending on their size, they can also serve as acoustic protection for workstations or as small meeting pods. Moreover, thanks to their soft interior surfaces, they can be used as temporary private “retreat spaces”.
