Kušs: Crafting Calmness with Acoustic Panels

Estere Savicka and Vaira Obuka's Innovative Use of Sapropel

Estere Savicka, a young architect, and Vaira Obuka, an environmental sciences researcher, collaborated to create Kušs. The inspiration for these panels came from the desire to use sapropel, a sediment extracted from lakes, in a sustainable and ecologically friendly manner. The result is a product that not only improves the acoustic quality of a space but also contributes to the betterment of lake ecosystems.

Kušs panels stand out for their unique composition and functionality. The panels are made from an ecological and non-toxic composite, using sapropel as a binder mixed with natural fibres. This innovative use of sapropel not only helps improve the quality of freshwater resources but also allows the panels to be used as a freely assembled art piece or as a wall covering.

The production process of Kušs panels revolves around the use of sapropel, a material abundant in Latvia. The extraction of sapropel is crucial for the recovery of eutrophic water bodies, making its use in these panels a step towards restoring water quality. When mixed with natural fibres, sapropel can be transformed into solid materials with varying qualities.

The technical specifications of the panels include dimensions of 500 x 720 mm and a thickness of 30 mm. The panels come with embedded screws for easy assembly and aluminium strips for fixtures. The design allows for the panels to be rearranged, offering flexibility in changing the overall appearance of the wall. The air gap between the wall and the panels further enhances the sound absorption level.

The project, which started in 2017 in Riga, Latvia, has been under constant development. The sound absorption ability of the composite material was tested in the laboratory of acoustics at the Latvia University of Agriculture, Faculty of Environment and Civil Engineering. Extensive research on the type of sapropel used in Kušs panels has also been conducted by researchers at the University of Latvia, Faculty of Geography and Earth Sciences, Department of Environmental Science.

The main challenge faced during the project was to produce a solid material using sapropel as the only binder, without any other additions, and using only natural, renewable or recycled fillers. Despite the challenges, the panels not only hold their weight but also reach class B in sound absorption, exceeding initial expectations.

The Kušs panels, designed to bring calmness into homes, open offices, and other public spaces by absorbing excessive noise, are a testament to the innovative use of natural resources. The panels not only enhance the acoustic quality of a space but also contribute to improving the ecosystem of a lake. The design was awarded Silver in A' Sustainable Products, Projects and Green Design Award in 2021, a testament to its innovative and sustainable design.