Curated by ArchiRev Editorial | Published November 2nd, 2026 | Source: Foster + Partners
Project Details
Architect: Foster + Partners
Location: Milan, Italy
Typologies: Installation, Workplace, Interior Design, Exhibition
Themes: Acoustic Design, Workplace Innovation, Interior Architecture, Sustainable Design, Material Innovation
Status: Completed
Client: Kvadrat Acoustics
Aesthetic qualities of acoustics have become an integral element of contemporary working spaces, as they influence the processes of communication, concentrating, and collaborating with other people. The project “Waves” by Foster + Partners in cooperation with Kvadrat Acoustics examines whether acoustic materials can become one of the elements that will make architecture aesthetic. Designed as an installation, it demonstrates that the properties of architecture can coexist in one building, like acoustics, spatiality, and innovative materials.
The installation is based on the landscape of waves created out of acoustic panels. It defines the space and does not set any borders in it. The idea of the movement of the waves creates a rhythm and a depth of the space, enabling the observer to perceive it from several perspectives. Hanging panels divide the space, creating a sequence of spaces that remain connected and open but still influence sound propagation in the space.
Layered acoustic panels create a dynamic environment that balances openness with sound absorption © Foster + Partners
Acoustic material Kvadrat Acoustics forms the heart of the entire installation and is perfectly laid out in several flowing shapes. The layered acoustic material is not only capable of absorbing the sound but is also transparent and light-weight in its structure, working from both technical and aesthetic sides. Walking through the installation creates a fascinating interplay of shadows, lights, and textures in the interior space. The modularity of the design is evidence of the flexibility of the acoustic system, which can be adjusted for different environments such as workspaces, hospitality, and public areas, making them collaborative and comfortable due to acoustic control.
The flowing geometry creates immersive spaces that encourage interaction and exploration © Foster + Partners
The work ensures a flow in a manner such that visitors find themselves moving into a series of undefined spaces rather than rooms. Apart from adding softness to the space, the curves play an important role in creating discussion moments. As such, the work embraces the entire architectural practice of Foster + Partners, which is characterized by design spaces with human experience at heart. The use of materials has played a crucial role in the nature of the installation in question. The material used in the work adds warmth to the space despite the precision of the geometric form.
Innovative acoustic materials demonstrate the relationship between performance and architectural expression © Foster + Partners
In addition to its sculptural form, Waves also demonstrates the possibilities associated with acoustic design being integrated into the building process rather than added later as an afterthought. Through Waves, it is possible to see how high-tech materials can be used to increase speech intelligibility and reduce unwanted noise, as well as promote wellness in the occupant. Waves also prove that designing with acoustics in mind from the beginning creates a much more holistic interior design process.
Waves showcases a future where acoustics, sustainability, and design work as one architectural system © Foster + Partners
Waves is a great example of architecture where performance, sustainability, and design are connected with each other. With the use of flow-based geometric shapes, unique acoustic material, and choreography-like spatial experience, architects from Foster + Partners and acoustic specialists from Kvadrat Acoustics show how acoustic solutions can enhance the architectural design instead of constraining it. The Waves installation serves as a good example of what the office space of the future will look like.