VANK participated for the second time in the most important event in the office industry this season – ORGATEC fairs, which took place from October 22 to 25, 2024. In Cologne, we showcased groundbreaking solutions that redefine the future of work. VANK's booth in the new Focus Area #TheCircularHouse was visited by commercial interior designers, office furniture distributors, and investors from around the world.

ORGATEC 2024 with a new trade fair concept and innovative Focus Areas

From October 22 to 25, 2024, the future of workspaces and styles was at the forefront of ORGATEC in Cologne. With a new trade fair concept and innovative Focus Area spaces, this leading international event provided a compact overview of the key industry topics.

We are pleased that VANK's presence generated significant interest, received positive feedback, and contributed to the establishment of new relationships.

Participation in ORGATEC, aligned with this year's motto "Biodesign. Endless Redesign. Circularity," demonstrated VANK's commitment to biodesign and the circular economy. It also provided an opportunity to showcase additional acoustic solutions made from biomaterials and circular collections for creating meeting and relaxation spaces.

At ORGATEC, attendees immersed themselves in a 500 m² interactive space – Focus Area by CADEMI – dedicated to circular solutions in the office furniture industry, #theCircularHouse in hall 4.2. In the interactive space, participants had the opportunity to engage in inspiring lectures and panel discussions led by industry professionals. Meanwhile, the adjacent Circular Lounge was used to workshop and network. The projects by VANK, a partner of this zone, who also furnished the Circular Lounge, highlighted the potential of renewable plant-based materials as an alternative to traditional ones. They also emphasized the importance of circular soft-seating collections, mobile acoustic solutions, as well as the significance of agility and modularity. At the Circular Lounge, VANK provided the VANK_BOX_BIO – acoustic pods used for podcasts and phone calls, VANK_FLIP modular walls for zoning the space, VANK_CUBE – a workshop table, seating, and coffee tables, as well as VANK_LONG and RING – lounge chairs for relaxation and conversation.

Premiere of VANK's circular solutions for the public space

The VANK_FLIP mobile, modular acoustic wall enables effective space zoning and enhances acoustic comfort in open areas. Its unique ability to significantly reduce reverberation time has been scientifically validated through advanced acoustic modeling, thanks to its double-sided design covered with panels. Made from natural biomaterials, the panels eliminate the risk of exposing workers to harmful substances. VANK_FLIP walls positively impact the mental and physical well-being of employees in open spaces. With movable segments, users can control accessibility by opening or closing selected segments, much like a window. This solution is designed with the comfort of neurodiverse individuals in mind.

Simulations conducted with KFB Acoustic on a challenging acoustic office space model (featuring a concrete floor and glass facade) confirmed that VANK_FLIP walls effectively reduce reverberation time and improve acoustic comfort. In various configurations, the reverberation time was successfully shortened from 7.7 seconds to 0.5 seconds.

In addition to VANK_FLIP, we also showcased a new 3D panel made from biomaterials, known as VANK_BRICKS. This panel was developed in collaboration with Maciej Bidermann from Bidermann + Wide architects and is based on VANK's innovative technology. The Poznań-based studio specializes in creating interior architecture that aligns with the principles of future-conscious design, taking into account the needs of both people and the planet.

Another exciting new product is VANK_LOOP, an eco-friendly seating line designed by the Danish studio Hans Thyge & Co for DesignBite DK, in collaboration with VANK. The LOOP poufs are a prime example of upcycling, as they are 100% upholstered with upcycled industrial leftovers from Ege Carpets DK.

VANK_BOX has now a completely redesigned control panel that places particular emphasis on ease of use. It features continuous control of lighting and ventilation, minimising ventilation noise while increasing performance.

Among the new finishes were velvet fabrics and curtains for the pods from Kvadrat, as well as fabrics made from recycled materials. More details are coming soon!

We encourage design professionals, journalists and enthusiasts to visit us at our next design world events. Together, let's discover the unlimited possibilities of circular design and its impact on our environment.

Team VANK at the booth in Cologne: Ulrich Rueger, Magda Rybitwa, Weronika Karaśkiewicz,Małgorzata Wardecka-Tuliszka, Anna Vonhausen, Marcus Vonhausen.