When Nicolai Gellert Pedersen and his family moved into their newly built Milton house in Silkeborg, they were delighted with the large, open spaces and the bright open-plan kitchen and living area with vaulted ceilings. But their enthusiasm was quickly challenged by the acoustics. The hard plasterboard ceilings and high ceilings created noticeable reverberation, amplifying every conversation, pot lid or playtime. This made everyday life restless – and the family began looking for an effective, aesthetic and simple solution.
They chose Arku acoustic ceilings. For Nicolai, it was crucial that the solution could be installed easily and without special tools. Using a utility knife, ruler and caulking gun, he was able to install the panels himself – quickly and without hassle. The panels' low weight and modest thickness of just 12 mm meant that they could be installed directly onto the existing plasterboard surfaces without interfering with curtains, spotlights or ventilation.
Acoustically, the panels delivered what the family needed. Arku is designed to perform on par with heavier alternatives, even when installed directly onto hard surfaces. The result in Silkeborg was a noticeable reduction in reverberation and echo, creating a calmer atmosphere in the home – exactly as desired.
Design and aesthetics also played a central role. The panels are developed in Denmark, rooted in the Nordic design tradition and with a timeless look that fits naturally into modern architecture. For Nicolai, this meant that he did not have to compromise between function and aesthetics – the ceiling is now both beautiful and functional.
At the same time, sustainability weighed heavily in the decision. The Arku panels are made from recycled plastic bottles, giving the family a solution that both removed noise from everyday life and plastic from nature.
When Nicolai looks back on the process, he highlights its simplicity. From ordering to installation, the experience was seamless – and he would not hesitate to recommend Arku to others facing acoustic challenges.