Interview #42 Frida Wanselius
Text: Matt Carey
Interview: Frida Wanselius
Photo: Lasse Olsson
Case: Mathem – Farsta
All around the world, architects and designers are using BAUX Acoustic Tiles and Panels in exciting projects for great brands. In a series of newsletters, we aim to introduce you to a selection of projects and the mind masters behind the designs of these acoustic artworks. Why? Because there are endless design possibilities to share with the world. We simply will call these newsletters Interviews #.
This week, we’ve been chatting with Frida Wanselius @ Millimeter Architects about the interior design concept for Mathem’s new building in Stockholm.
Tell us about the project.
Mathem wanted to create a sustainable workplace that would attract and support employees. They had decided to centralise their operation and focus on sustainability and have invested in the materials and design elements to achieve this. They also wanted to work with social sustainability, so the interior had to be creative and inclusive. We’ve used BAUX materials before, and we knew the impact they can have on a space. So, we knew from the start we would use BAUX designs on this project, too.
Tell us about the meeting space where you’ve used BAUX materials.
It’s a central hub, designed like an atrium, with a working lounge, reception, cafe and restaurant. Hundreds of workers pass through here during their working day, and the challenge was to make it a space where they could stay and interact. We wanted there to be a pulse but without the stress and background noise. BAUX fitted the brief perfectly – beautiful, sustainable materials and very effective in creating great acoustics.
How have the BAUX designs transformed the space?
We’ve used BAUX designs on all the vertical walls to improve acoustics and create patterns and graphic structures, which help shape the experience. It’s a tactile space. The BAUX designs have made a huge impact visually, and they’ve had a positive effect on worker wellbeing. People like being there and socialising with colleagues with different roles, which is one of the goals of social sustainability.
Why do you think they like the space?
It’s calm, and it also has a lot to do with the material choice and the experience of detail in the space. The BAUX tiles create interest, like wallpaper. The textures and colour make the space tactile. The tiles are hardy, and they can withstand a few knocks. From a sustainable standpoint, that’s great.
What would your dream BAUX project be?
I would love to use BAUX in the care sector, in a hospital building, for example, to create colourful patterns that transform rather boring spaces. It would be fantastic to create artful shapes, patterns and forms in these kinds of spaces.
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