2025
ACE
a collection of hearing aids made with cellulose acetate

Developed at ECAL / Lecturers: Erwan Bouroullec, Camille Blin / Teaching Assistant Maxwell Ashford / Photography: In use: Elisa Azevedo; Still life: Gaia Pierobon; Process: Moritz Engel 

ACE is a collection of wearable hearing devices, with hearing aids at the forefront, crafted from cellulose acetate, a biologically sourced alternative to plastic. Commonly used in eyewear, this material brings warmth, tactility, and function to the devices, aiming to shift perceptions of hearing aids in much the same way glasses have evolved from medical tools to desirable objects.

Seeking a more sustainable alternative to conventional synthetics, the project explores cellulose acetate, a historic bioplastic derived from wood or cotton waste, both biodegradable and recyclable through mechanical and chemical processes. Inspired by the dual identity of eyeglasses as medical tools and fashion accessories, the design introduces a modular system: a compact technological core that snaps onto interchangeable frames, adaptable to diverse needs and styles. Ace reimagines hearing aids as customizable, expressive objects that integrate seamlessly into everyday life, merging functionality with sustainability.

Eventually, the collection includes a variety of hearing aid types, from cochlear implants and traditional over-the-ear models to next-generation devices that blend seamlessly with modern wireless earbuds. It also features alternative solutions to in-ear devices, such as bone-conduction headphones, which offer a healthier listening experience for entertainment purposes.

(return to selected works)