In the sensory-heavy environment of Milan Design Week, the collaboration between Swedish colorist Teklan and acoustic specialists Slalom offers a study in restraint. Their installation, titled "Soft Cubism," serves as a manifesto for what the brand calls "Acoustethics"—a synthesis of sound management, ethical production, and a sophisticated visual language. The project moves beyond the utilitarian nature of sound-dampening panels, treating acoustic control as a fundamental element of architectural well-being.
The partnership centers on a refreshed color palette that rejects the stark, monochromatic tendencies of contemporary corporate and hospitality spaces. Teklan, known for an architectural approach to color forecasting, has developed a range of mineral and light-responsive tones designed to function as structural tools rather than mere decoration. These shades are engineered to interact with light and geometry, providing a sense of presence that remains intentionally subtle.
By grounding the collection in nature-inspired hues, the collaborators aim to address the physiological impact of interior environments. The goal is a nuanced toolkit for architects that bridges the gap between the audible and the visible. In an era where open-plan layouts often lead to acoustic fatigue, the "Soft Cubism" approach suggests that the path to human comfort lies in the quiet intersection of texture, geometry, and a more thoughtful spectrum of color.
With reporting from Designboom.
Source · Designboom
