^{Project Type: Media and administration building
Location: Zurich Leutschenbach, Switzerland
Architecture: Penzel Valier Architects
Acoustic Planning: Gartenmann Engineering, Zurich
Art Concept: Tobias Hartmann
Application: Acoustic textiles and acoustic curtains
Product: WHISPER air 301 printed}

Project Overview
The new SRF News & Sport Building in Zurich Leutschenbach, designed by Penzel Valier Architects, presents a confident and lightweight architectural expression despite its structural complexity. The building’s construction enables a flexible spatial programme designed to accommodate future developments in news and media production. At the same time, the architecture reflects SRF’s evolving identity as a public-service institution: the building is publicly accessible, and the ground-floor studios are visible from the outside.

Acoustic Challenge
Open work environments, extensive glazing and technically driven materials create demanding acoustic conditions. Editorial and production spaces required solutions that enhance speech intelligibility, concentration and acoustic comfort while preserving architectural transparency.

Acoustic Solution
The textile design concept was developed in collaboration with artist Tobias Hartmann. Printed carpets and acoustic curtains made from WHISPER air introduce a tactile and atmospheric counterpoint to the building’s technical-industrial character. Graphic barcode motifs printed on glass surfaces are echoed in the acoustic textiles, connecting art, architecture and function within a cohesive spatial concept. The acoustic textiles reduce reverberation and significantly improve speech intelligibility, particularly in environments characterised by hard, reflective materials such as glass.

Application

• translucent acoustic textile WHISPER air 301 printed
• developed for open office and editorial environments
• allows natural daylight to enter the space
• flame-retardant according to international safety standards
• suitable for glazed façades and reflective surfaces
• improvement of room acoustics and speech intelligibility
• integration of graphic art concept with acoustic function
• acoustic optimisation without visual impact on architectural design

Architectural Impact
The project demonstrates how textile acoustic solutions can unite functional performance, artistic expression and architectural openness, creating a contemporary working environment for media production.

Textile acoustic solutions by Annette Douglas Textiles enhance room acoustics, meet flame-retardant safety standards, and preserve architectural transparency and design intent.