Modular Acoustic Partitions Made from Biocomposite and Recycled Materials

Polish furniture manufacturer VANK has introduced FLIP, a modular system of mobile acoustic partitions made from either a hemp- and flax-based biocomposite or recycled PET (rPET). Designer Anna Vonhausen developed the system together with Bidermann+Wide. The partitions help divide open-plan interiors into temporary zones for meetings, focused work and informal activities. Users can reconfigure the layout as workplace needs change, avoiding permanent interior modifications.

The mobile partitions connect in straight lines or at 90° and 135° angles. Users can also combine them into larger configurations. Optional shelves and curtains support a wide range of workspace layouts.

Brick-Inspired Acoustic Panels

The FLIP collection features so-called ‘Bricks’ acoustic panels with a three-dimensional surface inspired by traditional masonry. The textured geometry increases the sound-absorbing surface area and gives the partitions a distinctive architectural appearance.

According to VANK, the panels achieve a sound absorption coefficient of αw = 0.90. This helps reduce reverberation and improve acoustic comfort in open-plan environments.

Biobased and Recycled Material Options

VANK offers the acoustic panels in two material variants. The first, VANK_BIO, combines flax and hemp fibres with biobased polymers. The company sources the fibres from fast-growing crops and agricultural by-products. According to VANK, the panels can enter industrial composting streams at the end of their service life.

The second option, VANK_rPET, uses recycled PET waste from sources such as beverage bottles and flooring materials. Manufacturers process the recycled fibres into a non-woven material and thermoform it into acoustic panels. After use, the material can be recycled again.

Recognised for Sustainable Workspace Design

FLIP received a Green Product Award in the Workspace category. The jury highlighted the system’s modular design, acoustic performance and use of biobased and recycled materials.

As organisations continue to adapt workplaces to changing ways of working, modular acoustic systems such as FLIP offer a flexible approach to spatial organisation while incorporating renewable and recycled material streams.

Source & photos: VANK / Green Product Award