How Tenseo membranes offer lightweight, high-performance acoustic treatment for architectural spaces
Why reverberation matters in modern architecture
In large or hard-surfaced environments, reverberation – the bouncing of sound waves – can result in poor speech clarity, uncomfortable noise levels, and reduced acoustic comfort. Architects and specifiers often need to balance aesthetic freedom with acoustic function, especially in public-facing or design-driven spaces.
Tenseo acoustic membranes by Serge Ferrari offer an elegant, flexible, and high-performing solution for reducing reverberation through tensioned ceiling and panel installations -available in South Africa and Kenya through Synchron.
What are tensioned acoustic membranes?
Tensioned membranes are thin but robust composite materials that are stretched over a frame or suspended as ceilings, panels, or sails. They work by absorbing and diffusing sound rather than reflecting it.
- Benefits of tensioned membrane systems:
- Minimal bulk – no need for traditional thick panels
- Design versatility – flat, curved, or 3D forms
- Quick installation and maintenance
- Seamless integration into architectural concepts
Introducing Tenseo Comfort AW and SW
Serge Ferrari’s Tenseo range offers two specialised membranes designed to absorb sound in both indoor and semi-open outdoor environments:
Tenseo Comfort AW (Acoustic wall & ceiling membrane)
- For indoor installations: auditoriums, offices, pools, schools, restaurants
- Absorption coefficient: up to 0.65 αw (without additional absorbent)
- Resistant to moisture and condensation
- Ideal for tensioned ceilings, wall panels, acoustic sails, or suspended baffles
Tenseo Comfort SW (Sound absorbing for weather-exposed spaces)
- Designed for semi-outdoor spaces: stadiums, malls, atriums
- UV- and weather-resistant
- Absorption coefficient: up to 0.55 αw (with 100 mm air gap)
- Installed in large-span tensioned ceilings or façades
Application ideas: Sound control that complements the space
With their flexibility and finish options, Tenseo membranes are ideal for:
- Tensioned ceilings in open-plan areas
- Suspended baffles in high-volume spaces like halls or train stations
- Printed wall panels for branding and acoustic comfort
- Multi-layered acoustic sails in galleries or restaurants
Unlike rigid panels or foam, Tenseo materials preserve the visual openness of a space while improving its acoustic experience.
Performance without compromise
| Feature | Tenseo AW | Tenseo SW |
|---|---|---|
| Acoustic Absorption | Up to 0.65 αw | Up to 0.55 αw |
| Environment | Indoor | Semi-open / Outdoor |
| Resistance | Moisture, Chlorine | UV, Rain, Wind |
| Design | Flat, Curved, 3D | Large-span façades |
| Maintenance | Easy wipe-clean | Highly durable |
Why architects & specifiers choose Tenseo
Benefits include:
- Compatible with curved or angular structures
- Available in a range of colours and custom prints
- Lightweight = less structural support required
- Installed quickly, with minimal disruption
Whether for retrofit acoustic correction or part of a new build, Tenseo membranes support sustainable, elegant, and effective sound management.
Bring acoustic harmony to your next project
Synchron imports and distributes the Tenseo range across Southern and East Africa. We work with architects, acoustic consultants, and contractors to specify the right solution for your project.
Contact us to request samples, technical data sheets, or a project consultation.
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