VANK x Instyle BIO TILE

The acoustic finishes industry is highly reliant on polyurethane (PU) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) for the production of durable sound-absorbing panels and tiles. The production emissions of both these polymers could potentially pose ecological risks. A sustainable alternative needed to be developed that maximised renewable & biological resources, minimised harmful inputs and outputs, be used in conjunction with an established clip mounting system for attachment to interior wall surfaces and provide exemplary acoustic performance.

BIO TILE is a 100% biomaterial acoustic panel that foregrounds circularity and resource efficiency offering sound attenuation rivalling its synthetic counterparts, harnessesing the uniquely beneficial properties of bast fibers in a membrane combining hemp & flax biomass with a biopolymer matrix. VANK’s prerequisite for development of the BIO TILE was to produce a hollow shell which can be installed with a variety of acoustically porous internal infill panels, utilising existing manufacturing processes. Environmental impact was considered at all development stages. Hemp was selected for its rapid CO2 absorption, agricultural waste utilised for reduced processing energy, and renewables-powered production to minimise emissions.

BIO TILE will shape new mindsets towards human-nature relationships in the built environment. It promotes renewable resources, minimises synthetics and foregrounds the uniquely climate-beneficial properties of hemp. With growing demand for sustainable interiors, BIO TILE’s bio-based composition, acoustic performance and organic appearance meets human health and environmental needs. BIO TILE’s greatest impact comes from rejecting the use of fossil fuel primary materials in favour of those with low embodied carbon, paving the way for just material transitions. Its utilisation of renewable agricultural waste inputs integrates circular processes, and its demonstrated sound attenuation and biophilic attributes elevate human comfort and well-being.

BIO TILE was developed with the principles of biodesign, which seeks to connect people with nature for improved well-being. Its raw texture and earthy tones reflect the imperfections found in nature; the gentle topography of the ELLIPSE shape acts as both a diffuser to break up sound waves, and an element of biophilic harmony. Designers can install the BIO TILE panels in a variety of patterns, using them to create unique wall finishes that suit various interior environments including commercial offices, hotels & restaurants, multifunctional public spaces and residential buildings. The tiles are installed using the simple, intuitive Ecoustic mounting clip system in a multitude of configurations and arrangements. As an acoustic product with an almost negative cradle-to-gate carbon footprint, BIO TILE’s sustainable impact has been considered and quantified at every stage. It meets the requirements of global green building standards and certifications where recycled and rapidly renewable content, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, low VOCs, product stewardship and reduced material toxicity are all prioritised. The BIO TILE is the brainchild of Anna Vonhausen, VANK’s designer and creative director, and Marcus Vonhausen, VANK’s business development director. The ELLIPSE pattern is designed by architectural studio Mili Młodzi Ludzie.