Mattaisemmat

Mattaisemmat is a Finnish term that translates to "more carpet-like" or "more muffled" in English. It is often used in the context of sound or acoustics to describe a surface or material that absorbs sound rather than reflecting it. This property makes a surface "mattaisempi" if it reduces echo and reverberation.

Materials that are considered mattaisemmat typically have soft, porous, or irregular textures. Examples include thick carpets, upholstered furniture, acoustic panels made of foam or fabric, and heavy curtains. In contrast, hard, smooth surfaces like bare concrete, glass, or polished wood are considered "kiiltävämmät" (shinier) or "kovammat" (harder) in terms of their acoustic properties, as they tend to reflect sound waves.

The concept of mattaisemmat is important in interior design and architecture for controlling the sound environment of a space. In rooms where noise reduction and a calm atmosphere are desired, such as recording studios, libraries, or bedrooms, designers will often incorporate mattaisemmat elements to dampen sound. Conversely, in spaces where sound reflection is beneficial, like concert halls or auditoriums, surfaces are typically designed to be less mattaisemmat. The degree of "mattis" a surface possesses directly influences how sound behaves within a room.