As a consequence of the Noise Abatement Act, they were obligatory for many noise-loaded dwellings. Many types were developed.
Later, recently in fact, energy saving measures changed this: mechanical ventilation including heat exchangers and silencers made "suskasten" unnecessary.
Thank you for your suggestion. I am aware of similar devices but not specifically of "suskasten". I am curious whether comfort conditions in residential buildings improved in the Dutch experience. In many cases people keep on opening windows in mechanically ventilated buildings (or would like to) to have a contact with outside and some control over the environment, despite being in urban contexts.
If you might have any specific questions regarding this subject, I'll be glad to (try to) answer them.
My personal e-mail: [email protected]
Simone Torresin : Of course people want to have the option of opening windows. The intention of "suskasten" is to avoid the dilemma: noise or fresh air. In particular in sleeping rooms this is important.