These colorful hexagonal wall tiles are made from sound-absorbing "wood wool"

Wood panelling, historically used to conceal imperfections and provide insulation in structures like castles and country homes, is experiencing a contemporary resurgence. This timeless material is now adaptable to various interior styles and room sizes. Experts highlight its practical and aesthetic advantages in modern homes. One key benefit is its ability to conceal pipes and wires, tidying up the appearance of a room. Jon Madeley from The English Panelling Company emphasizes its role in insulation, noting that a mere 25mm of foam insulation board behind panelling can significantly improve a room's heating efficiency, particularly in older buildings or where thicker insulation isn't feasible. Furthermore, wood panelling contributes to enhanced acoustics, a crucial aspect in today's homes, especially with the rise of remote work. Gregg Wright of WoodUpp points out that many homes aren't designed with optimal acoustics for office use, leading to echoey or distorted sound. Their handcrafted panels are specifically engineered to mitigate these issues. Aesthetically, panelling can segment a wall, creating distinct decorating zones, which is particularly useful for spaces with high ceilings or along staircases, according to Paul Gamble of The Wall Panelling Company. Sophie Scott and Georgina Key from Studio Skey utilize panelling to introduce textural depth into minimalist, neutral designs, often opting for ribbed styles and custom-prefabricated panels in various veneers and sizes. Fanny Abbes of The New Design Project notes that panelling not only adds a dramatic, bespoke touch but also protects walls, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like lobbies and penthouses. Regarding material choices, sustainable hardwoods such as oak and ash have long been popular for their appealing grain patterns. Yulia Korelska from Your FoRest describes oak panels as artistic pieces that age gracefully. Walnut is also gaining traction for its unique grain and warm tones, while alderwood is favored for smaller decorative elements due to its fine milling properties and uniform grain. Nicholas Hughes of Retrouvius suggests oily hardwoods like iroko for damp environments such as kitchen worktops. He also advises acclimatizing timber before installation to prevent shrinkage, especially with newer softwoods. Proper installation is critical, often beginning after other dusty construction work is completed. Paul Gamble recommends fitting mouldings directly onto walls for the best fixation and space efficiency. If pipes need to be hidden, particularly in bathrooms, battens may be necessary. The wall must be smooth and robust enough to support the panelling's weight. Prefabricated acoustic panels offer a quick installation solution, attachable with glue or screws. For bathrooms, panels can be oiled or varnished for water resistance. Hughes cautions against using permanent glues, preferring screws that can be decorative and allow for easier removal of the wood. While traditional wood panelling typically requires a skilled carpenter, simpler MDF panels can often be installed by homeowners or handymen. Madeley highlights that MDF, a durable and cost-effective alternative, is less susceptible to temperature and humidity fluctuations, making it suitable for older buildings or new constructions with varying conditions. He advises using high-quality, moisture-resistant MDF for a superior painted finish, enabling its use in humid areas like bathrooms and kitchens. For smaller rooms, Studio Skey suggests using slimmer, ribbed timber panels for desks, vanity units, and drawer fronts, often painted the same color as the walls to avoid overwhelming the space. Alternatively, in compact areas, panelling only halfway up the wall or opting for lower, wider panels can create a more expansive feel. #WoodPanelling #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #AcousticPanels #HomeRenovation #MaterialSelection #DIYHomeImprovement #SustainableDesign #WallTreatment

Woven Image, an Australian brand, has expanded its EchoPanel collection of acoustic wall treatments by introducing five new colorways. The new additions include Dusk (powder pink), Mint (cool green), Butter (warm yellow), Cayenne (rich brown), and Nutmeg (green-brown), enriching the existing range of 34 hues. Each new color is characterized by a dimensional, mottled appearance, a direct result of the product's material composition. EchoPanel products are crafted entirely from PET, with a significant 60 percent derived from post-consumer recycled plastics. These newly launched colors are integrated into Woven Image's current portfolio of seven distinct patterns. These patterns encompass designs such as the undulating Ohm, the arch-inspired Palace and Empire, and the striped Align, Latitude, Longitude, and Meridian. The acoustic panels are specifically engineered for installation in commercial and workplace environments. Their applications extend beyond wall-mounted solutions to include operable walls and space dividers, offering versatile design possibilities. EchoPanel has received certification as a carbon-neutral product, underscoring its commitment to sustainability. The brand highlights its impressive environmental credentials, which include Global GreenTag certification. Furthermore, EchoPanel possesses a robust Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), which is recognized by prominent international green building assessment tools such as WELL, LEED, GreenStar, and BREEAM. This recognition assists specifiers in identifying and utilizing products that have undergone rigorous testing for their environmental performance. The integration of these new colors and the product's sustainable attributes aim to provide designers and architects with aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible options for enhancing acoustic comfort in various interior spaces. #AcousticPanels #WovenImage #EchoPanel #InteriorDesign #SustainableMaterials #CommercialInteriors #WorkplaceDesign #GreenBuilding

Submaterial, a modern wall decor brand, has expanded its product line by reinterpreting its popular wall hanging patterns into innovative wool felt and cork wall coverings. These new offerings are designed to create a significant visual impact in any space due to their large scale and distinctive patterns. The collection includes multiple variations, ensuring adaptability for diverse home interiors and seamless installation. The designs are characterized by their bold and organic motifs. One notable design, 'Figure no. 1,' features flowing, serpentine lines that are repeated across the expansive surface, creating a sense of movement and continuity. In contrast, 'Figure no. 2' presents a more assertive and geometric aesthetic, incorporating strong architectural elements that lend a structured and contemporary feel to walls. Submaterial's wall coverings are crafted from over 42 different types of wool felt, providing a wide array of color options and textures. The hand-assembled nature of these pieces allows for extensive customization, enabling customers to select specific color combinations that align with their interior design preferences. This level of personalization ensures that each installation can be tailored to individual tastes and existing decor schemes. A key functional advantage of these wall coverings is their dual material composition of cork and wool. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these materials inherently possess sound-absorbing properties. Consequently, the wall coverings serve a practical purpose by helping to soften noise within a room, contributing to a more tranquil and comfortable living environment. This acoustic benefit makes them suitable for spaces where noise reduction is desired, such as living areas, bedrooms, or home offices. By blending artistic design with practical functionality, Submaterial's new wool felt and cork wall coverings offer a sophisticated solution for enhancing interior spaces. They combine visual appeal, customizable options, and acoustic advantages, reflecting a commitment to both modern aesthetics and practical home improvements. #WallCoverings #WoolFelt #CorkDecor #ModernDesign #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #Submaterial #AcousticProperties #CustomizableDecor

Kvadrat, a Danish textile company, produces Soft Cells, a modular acoustic panel system designed to enhance the acoustic performance of various buildings. Zane Walker, head of project management at Kvadrat Soft Cells, explains that these panels are custom-made by hand in their factory located in Poznań, Poland. The panels are versatile and can be utilized in diverse settings, ranging from individual offices to large concert halls or auditoriums that require numerous panels to function cohesively. Each Soft Cell panel is manufactured to order, involving a meticulous process of cutting, assembling, and upholstering by hand. This handcrafted approach ensures a high level of precision, which is crucial for projects with stringent tolerance requirements. The Soft Cells are available in sizes from 20 centimeters to six meters in length and can be produced in various shapes to accommodate specific design needs. The construction of each panel involves a recycled aluminum frame filled with acoustic foam. This core structure is then covered with a selection of Kvadrat's textiles. A distinctive feature of the Soft Cells is the tensioning system, which incorporates spring coils. This system is engineered to maintain the fabric's tautness over the entire lifespan of the panels, ensuring consistent aesthetic and acoustic performance. Modern architectural trends often favor clean, open spaces characterized by hard, reflective materials such as concrete and glass. While aesthetically pleasing, these materials can lead to poor acoustics, resulting in uncomfortable or inefficient environments. Kvadrat's Soft Cells offer a solution by allowing architects to maintain the minimalist design of these spaces while significantly improving their acoustic properties. By integrating these panels, spaces become more comfortable for occupants, whether they are working or living within them. Walker emphasizes that the acoustic performance of a space directly influences the comfort and satisfaction of its users. The Soft Cells provide a way to introduce "softness" into these otherwise rigid, minimalist designs, thereby enhancing both the visual and auditory experience. The production process, detailed in a film by Dezeen, highlights the craftsmanship and attention to detail involved in creating each panel, underscoring the product's quality and its role in harmonizing contemporary architecture with optimal acoustic conditions. #Kvadrat #AcousticPanels #InteriorDesign #TextileInnovation #ArchitecturalSolutions #HandmadeProducts #SustainableMaterials #NoiseReduction #ModernInteriors

BAUX, a renowned Swedish acoustics brand, has launched its new X-FELT collection, designed in collaboration with international design studio Form Us With Love. This collection introduces precision-cut acoustic panels and tiles that can be combined to create unique interior rhythms. The design concept draws inspiration from the distinct harmony found in Japanese Zen Gardens, aiming for a sense of calm and vibrant continuity in interior spaces. The X-FELT collection features large-format, high-performance acoustic panels measuring 1 x 2.8 meters and tiles of 6 x 6 meters. These products were unveiled during Stockholm Design Week 2025. A key aspect of the collection's sustainability is its construction from ultra-fine, high-quality polyester fibers derived from GRS-certified PET. This material choice eliminates the necessity for harmful fire-retardant treatments, thereby reducing toxic emissions during production, use, and eventual disposal. The panels and tiles possess a smooth, compact, and lightweight layered sandwich structure, contributing to their durability and effective sound absorption. From an environmental perspective, the X-FELT collection is fully recyclable. It can be processed at facilities that handle PET or returned through BAUX’s dedicated BAUX Circle Programme, emphasizing the brand's commitment to circular economy principles. The product also meets safety standards, being rated Fire Class Bs.1-d0 for both wall and ceiling applications. Visually, the X-FELT collection is characterized by intersecting, curvilinear lines that form structured yet flowing geometric compositions. It offers a diverse color palette, including solid and contrasting duo colors. The design utilizes a repeated grid of rectangular panels, each containing mirrored and rotated variations of a single motif. This approach creates symmetrical arches and wave-like curves that interlock, generating a tranquil yet dynamic visual movement across the surface. The interplay of curves and occasional sharp points introduces structured contrast within the fluid patterns, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and rhythmic continuity across entire wall surfaces. The lightweight and large format of these panels and tiles enable the creation of cohesive and visually striking sound-absorbing installations, particularly suitable for larger spaces. BAUX, established in 2014, is a joint venture by Fredrik Franzon, Johan Ronnestam, and Form Us With Love founders Jonas Pettersson and John Löfgren. The company, which now has a global presence in over 30 regions with clients like Google, Stella McCartney, WeWork, Spotify, and Nike, operates with a core belief in developing building materials that are sustainable, highly functional, and visually appealing, without compromising environmental and safety standards. The X-FELT collection exemplifies this ethos, providing interior designers with extensive creative freedom to craft ambiances that are both sensitive and engaging. #AcousticPanels #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #RecyclableMaterials #ZenInspiredDesign #FormUsWithLove #BAUX #InnovativeMaterials #SoundAbsorption

NOWN, an architectural product manufacturer, has introduced a range of 3D-knitted products designed for architectural specifiers, focusing on sustainable acoustic surfaces. Headquartered in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, NOWN is composed of designers, engineers, creators, and architects collaborating to develop materials for walls and ceilings that aim to create stylish and transformative spaces while prioritizing sustainability. Central to NOWN's philosophy is a commitment to precision and quality in material development. An exemplary product is InfiKnit, a 3D-knitted polyester material that features a distinct 3D texture and sound-absorbing properties. This material is specifically engineered to mitigate and control reverberations within interior environments. InfiKnit is suitable for various interior settings, including assembly halls and conference rooms, and boasts a highly efficient manufacturing process that generates only 0.1 percent waste, making it fully recyclable. InfiKnit is offered in a variety of colors and four unique 3D textured pattern collections, intended to enhance acoustic comfort within interiors. The product leverages industry-leading knitting technology alongside established architectural manufacturing techniques, providing designers with a versatile tool to soften, expand, absorb sound, and transform spaces. InfiKnit's material composition and distinctive 3D texture are effective in reducing noise from common office disturbances such as ringing, typing, and conversations, thereby fostering more pleasant and productive environments. Additionally, NOWN states that the production of InfiKnit uses 95 percent less water compared to other textile furnishings, reinforcing the brand's dedication to environmental responsibility. By integrating InfiKnit into design projects, specifiers contribute to a more sustainable future. The 3D-knitted yarns offer significant flexibility, allowing for innovative designs that can adapt and transform spaces creatively. The InfiKnit wall and ceiling panels are designed for installation on a grid system and can be paired with NOWN's Soft Sound material backing for enhanced acoustic performance. Soft Sound is manufactured from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, with up to 60 percent of its content derived from recycled sources. Beyond InfiKnit, NOWN also produces Graphic Perf panels, which are perforated. A customized version of these panels was utilized for a Tesla showroom in California, where Michael W Folonis Architects adapted them to create a patterned, curved facade that also functions as a sunlight filter. NOWN's commitment to sustainability extends to its partnership with German brand Made Of Air, through which it develops carbon-negative materials. These materials are designed to actively sequester more carbon dioxide than they emit, contributing to carbon neutrality and the fight against climate change. The brand emphasizes creating products with patterns that appear complex but are straightforward to install, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. In 2023, the company rebranded from Arktura to NOWN to better integrate into the European market, adapting its business culture to meet the diverse demands of the region's architecture and design field. The brand positions itself as a collaborative partner for designers, offering solutions that range from bespoke creations to adaptations of standard products, aiming to fit seamlessly into diverse design projects. #AcousticMaterials #SustainableDesign #3DKnitting #ArchitecturalProducts #InteriorDesign #RecyclableMaterials #CarbonNegativeMaterials #MaterialInnovation #ArchitecturalFinishes

Texture is an essential yet often overlooked element in interior design, crucial for adding depth, weight, and interest to a space. It contributes to making a room feel warm and inviting, going beyond mere colors and tones. Achieving effective texture involves strategic layering, starting with a dominant element that defines the mood, then accenting it with contrasting flashes. This approach creates character and visual depth. In bedrooms, comfort is paramount. A tailored bedhead, such as upholstered options from Heatherley Design or Mexsii, serves as an excellent starting point. This can be complemented by a rug that echoes the bedhead's pattern or palette, along with beautiful linen. Incorporating decorative pillows, like those from Kip & Co, adds a statement, while timber tones or a fabric pendant light can introduce softness. To prevent an overwhelming sense of coziness, it is important to contrast soft elements with hard surfaces, such as cabinetry, timber bulkheads, or industrial bedside lamps. For living areas, a fabric or velvet lounge provides a good foundation for texture. Leather lounges can be enhanced with tactile blankets from brands like Sage And Clare, and soft throws work well with any type of lounge. A sheepskin can beautifully complement a fabric couch. A variety of cushions and throws are beneficial for layering, but the application of texture should extend further. Layered rugs on hard floors offer both visual interest and textural contrast. Additionally, incorporating different tones of timber, ensuring consistent finishes and tonal bases, can further enrich the space. Textured wallpaper, ranging from seagrass to paintable varieties, can subtly elevate a room, even with minimal changes. Greenery acts as a bridge between hard and soft finishes, completing the layered look. In bathrooms, where floor-to-ceiling tiles are common, selecting natural stone options like honed Carrara marble or limestone can introduce a soft finish, contributing to a cozy atmosphere. Greenery, timber elements, and fluffy towels are essential additions to enhance the textural experience in bathrooms. For kitchens, the principle of balance and layering remains key. In an all-white kitchen, varying shades of white create depth. For dark and glossy kitchens, matte finishes can soften harshness and reduce excessive reflection. A mirrored splashback that reflects an outdoor view introduces an additional dynamic element. Even everyday items like cookbooks can contribute to the kitchen's texture, making the space feel more personal and inviting. Ultimately, successful texture layering relies on variety, balance, and contrast. Contrasting surfaces work together to build character. The intended use of each space should guide material choices; hard surfaces are practical for high-cleaning areas like kitchens and bathrooms, while soft, cozy textures are ideal for bedrooms and living spaces. Examples of items that can introduce texture include French Flax Linen Throws for warmth and breathability, Luxury Velvet Round Cushions for opulence, Rattan Pots for a coastal touch, Laclies Floor Rugs for comfort and pattern, and Faux Fur Cushions for a luxurious and soft feel. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #LayeringMaterials #TexturalDesign #BedroomDecor #LivingRoomDesign #BathroomDecor #KitchenDesign #SoftFurnishings

Paper Collective has launched a new collection of beautifully designed art panels in collaboration with The Roost, which not only enhance home decor but also incorporate sound-absorbing technology to create a more peaceful living environment. These panels are available exclusively through The Roost and offer a diverse range of designs, including Bauhaus, serene landscapes, and floral patterns, catering to various interior styles. The dual functionality of these art panels makes them suitable for large statement pieces or curated gallery walls, while also addressing practical concerns related to acoustics. The core innovation behind these artworks lies in their sound-absorbing capabilities, making them particularly beneficial for open-plan spaces where sound often reverberates, and for home offices that require privacy and concentration. The technology, developed in collaboration with acoustic pioneers Akuart, utilizes PET materials, with 50 percent of the fibers derived from recycled plastic bottles. This construction ensures high-quality sound absorption, as validated by 'best-in-class sound-absorbing classifications' in testing. The panels are effective in reducing both low-frequency sounds, such as thunder or deep voices, and high-frequency noises, like whistles or children's voices. By mitigating reverberation, these artworks optimize the acoustic environment, improving clarity for speaking and listening within the home. The collection includes two primary variations: Home 30 and Home 50. Home 30 is designed to effectively regulate high and sharp tones, making it an ideal choice for open-plan homes, home offices, and dining areas. In contrast, Home 50 is tailored for homes with minimalist designs and a prevalence of hard surfaces, such as tiled flooring and large windows. These hard surfaces typically cause sound to oscillate between the floor, walls, and ceiling, and Home 50 is specifically engineered to counteract this effect, further enhancing sound quality and reducing echo. Will Plowden, founder of The Roost, emphasizes that these panels significantly improve sound quality and reduce bounce-back noise, a common issue in many open-plan residences, thereby transforming homes into more tranquil spaces. He also highlights their value as a stylish addition to home offices, where they can boost privacy and aid concentration. The integration of sustainability, aesthetic appeal, and functionality is a key aspect of these acoustic panels, offering a sophisticated finishing touch for any room. They cater to individuals seeking to cultivate a serene and quiet living space without compromising on design. The collection is available exclusively at The Roost, with prices starting from £800. #SoundAbsorbingArtwork #HomeDecor #AcousticPanels #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign #OpenPlanLiving #HomeOffice #PaperCollective #TheRoost

This article explores the manufacturing process of BAUX acoustic wall tiles and panels, highlighting their environmentally friendly nature and functional design. BAUX, a Swedish brand, is recognized for its sound-absorbing qualities and the creation of visually appealing geometric patterns. The company's philosophy centers on producing building materials that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing while adhering to strict environmental standards. This approach led to a collaboration with Träullit, a family-owned business specializing in boards and panels made from cement and wood wool. These two basic materials form the foundation of BAUX's eco-friendly acoustic components. The production process begins with sourcing wood locally in Småland, Sweden, to minimize environmental impact. The collected spruce wood is then stacked and air-dried outside the factory. Following this, the spruce is cut into smaller pieces and ground down to create wood wool. This wood wool is then combined with water and cement. The resulting blend is poured into molds, which are subsequently stacked and left to dry. Once dried, the wood wool cement material is cut into various smaller pieces and geometric shapes. BAUX Acoustic Tiles, for instance, are produced in shapes like hexagons and are then spray-painted in a diverse range of colors, offering extensive customization options for designers and consumers. For larger applications, BAUX Acoustic Panels are milled to incorporate intricate patterns. The versatility of BAUX Acoustic Tiles allows for the creation of numerous patterns by combining different shapes and colors, offering significant design flexibility. Similarly, BAUX Acoustic Panels are engineered to revitalize and enhance large spaces, providing both acoustic benefits and aesthetic improvements. The entire process emphasizes sustainability, from the local sourcing of raw materials to the transformation of simple, natural components into advanced acoustic solutions. This detailed deconstruction of BAUX's manufacturing sheds light on how a commitment to both design and environmental responsibility can result in innovative and practical products for interior spaces. #AcousticPanels #EcoFriendlyDesign #WoodWool #SustainableMaterials #InteriorDesign #BAUX #SoundAbsorption #SwedishDesign

The article explores the increasing trend of integrating color and acoustic design in interior spaces, moving away from minimalist aesthetics towards more vibrant and functional environments. It highlights how humans are naturally drawn to color, linking specific hues to emotions and experiences, making color a powerful tool for architects and designers. This shift is evident not only in residential settings but also in modern workspaces and high-traffic areas where energetic and creative atmospheres are desired. The core challenge addressed is balancing visual appeal with acoustic comfort. The article emphasizes that a colorful ambiance can lose its effectiveness if not properly sound-proofed, as excessive noise can lead to distraction, stress, and reduced productivity. To overcome this, the integration of colorful acoustic panels is presented as an effective solution, offering both aesthetic enhancement and sound control. Autex Acoustics is introduced as a provider of such solutions, manufacturing carbon-neutral acoustic panels from at least 40% recycled PET. These panels are available in a wide array of colors across their product lines, including Cube (lightweight, semi-ridged panels) and Vertiface (fabric wallcoverings). The company has also expanded its palette with four new nature-inspired colors: Canyon (terracotta), Caspian (stormy grey-blue), Highland (moss green), and Terrace (warm grey alternative). For bespoke projects, Autex offers advanced UV printing for solid colors and custom patterns through its Solid Color and Acoustic Surface Finishes ranges, allowing for precise color matching and unique designs. Four creative applications for integrating colorful acoustic panels in interior design are detailed. The first method suggests adding surfaces that bring the colors of the outdoors indoors. The new nature-inspired colorways — Canyon, Caspian, Highland, and Terrace — are designed to evoke biophilic experiences, fostering comfort and well-being while managing acoustics. These hues are versatile enough to blend with rustic designs or create accent walls. The second application focuses on creating focal points with accent walls. Colorful acoustic panels can be strategically placed to both enhance sound isolation and draw attention to specific areas. The choice of color significantly impacts the visual effect; for instance, a bold color like Ink (deep blue) from the Vertiface series creates a dramatic impact, while a subtle shade like Terrace offers an elegant alternative. Designers can customize these choices to align with the desired ambiance and maintain visual harmony. The third approach involves establishing color zones to divide functions, particularly in busy work environments. Using colored sound-proofing solutions helps visually separate different activity areas while ensuring acoustic comfort. This strategy can delineate collaborative spaces with bright colors or create quiet zones for focused work with more subdued biophilic tones. Color gradients can also be employed for smooth transitions and aesthetic flair. The final creative method highlights making a statement with patterns, depth, and custom designs. When a solid color might not suffice, designers can opt for acoustic systems that incorporate unique shapes, intricate patterns, color blocking, and textured surfaces. Autex Surface Finishes facilitate these possibilities, allowing for customization, replication of natural material looks, and the creation of sculptural elements that serve as both art and acoustic solutions, adding identity and personality to spaces. #AcousticPanels #InteriorDesign #ColorTheory #SoundProofing #BiophilicDesign #SustainableMaterials #WorkplaceDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #ArchitecturalInnovation

Autex Acoustics has introduced a range of sound-dampening products to the Dezeen Showroom, featuring panels designed to integrate seamlessly into diverse interior aesthetics. The collection includes items that mimic natural materials like wood and stone, alongside customizable systems for walls and ceilings. This release caters to the ongoing demand for acoustic solutions that do not compromise interior design. One of the featured collections is the Stone collection, which offers acoustic panels with the visual characteristics of veined stone, such as travertine and marble. These materials have historically been popular in architectural and interior decoration, and Autex Acoustics leverages this appeal by combining aesthetic value with functional sound absorption. The panels provide a versatile and cost-effective alternative to traditional acoustic cladding, available in various patterns to suit different design preferences. Building on the theme of natural materials, Autex Acoustics also presents Acoustic Timber. This range draws inspiration from the unique knots and grain patterns found in various wood species, including pine, ash, oak, eucalyptus, and walnut. The Acoustic Timber collection is available in three application formats—baffles, tiles, and panels—allowing for flexibility in design and installation. This product line aims to offer the warmth and texture of wood while effectively managing sound within a space. Another significant offering is the Frontier system, which is specifically engineered for ceilings and walls. Composed of 100% polyester fibre shapes, Frontier panels are designed to control noise levels and can be configured to create wave-like effects on interior surfaces. The system provides a broad spectrum of 21 colorways and offers customization options through an adjustable channel and clip mechanism, enabling designers to tailor the acoustic treatment to specific spatial requirements and aesthetic visions. Composition is a sound-dampening product noted for its durability, making it suitable for high-traffic environments. These wall coverings are installed using a drop technique, similar to traditional wallpaper, simplifying the application process. The ease of installation, combined with effective acoustic properties, positions Composition as a practical solution for various commercial and residential settings. The Groove system, yet another innovative product from Autex Acoustics, offers customizable router-cut panels for walls and ceilings. This system provides patterned finishes and features a self-adhesive backing for straightforward installation. With six suggested patterns and five angle options, Groove allows for a high degree of customization, enabling designers to create unique visual and acoustic environments. These panels are also available in a wide array of colors. Autex Acoustics, established in 1967, specializes in developing sound-dampening products primarily for offices and mixed-use interiors. The company maintains showrooms in key international locations, including the UK, USA, New Zealand, and Australia, reflecting its global presence and commitment to providing high-quality acoustic solutions. The featured products highlight the brand's focus on integrating aesthetic appeal with functional sound management, offering versatile options for contemporary interior design. #AcousticProducts #InteriorDesign #SoundDampening #ArchitecturalFinishes #NaturalMaterials #WallPanels #CeilingPanels #AutexAcoustics #DezeenShowroom

The article explores the growing trend of using paper-backed fabric for wall coverings as an alternative to traditional wallpaper or fully upholstered walls. This interior design technique is presented as a method to significantly elevate the aesthetic and feel of a room, offering a luxurious and tactile finish. Interior designers Irene Gunter and Anna Hewitson are quoted, emphasizing the luxurious, warm, and cosy qualities that fabric adds to a space. Gunter highlights the desire to touch such walls, indicating their unique appeal. Beyond aesthetics, the article delves into the practical benefits of paper-backed fabric walls. Anna Hewitson points out its effectiveness in reducing noise due to its sound-absorbent properties, making it suitable for creating a quieter and more serene environment. The installation process, however, is not presented as a DIY project. The article strongly advises against attempting it without professional help, underlining the complexity and skill required. Jamie Shawcross, Director of British fabric brand Fermoie, which recently launched a paper-backing service for its fabrics, explains that while they have assisted clients with traditional stretched fabric walling, it is an expensive and highly skilled endeavor. He suggests that paper-backed fabric offers a similar luxurious texture that cannot be replicated by wallpaper. Fermoie's new service aims to make fabric walling more accessible by offering paper-backed versions of their patterned fabrics. Shawcross specifically recommends Tones Specialist Paper Hangers for installation, noting their expertise in hand-cutting margins, pattern matching, and adhesive application. Similarly, Walltex provides paper-backing services for both corporate and residential clients, with Aimee Kandola from Walltex explaining that specialist decorators are needed to overlap and mitre each panel during installation. Walltex is also developing a new collection of linen and cotton wallcoverings under their K Decor brand, which will be supplied as pre-trimmed rolls to simplify installation for experienced decorators. Choosing the right fabric is critical for achieving the desired outcome. Jamie Shawcross notes that both large and small prints work well, but highlights linen for its textural quality, which allows one to perceive the weave and subtle colour variations. Irene Gunter expresses a preference for wool, including herringbone and plain varieties, for its seamless and cosy attributes. She advises against silk due to its susceptibility to sunlight damage and visible seams. Gunter also recommends using a braided trim around skirting or coving to conceal the joint where the fabric meets the wall, a technique that also harks back to traditional period homes where fabric walls were common. The article also provides guidance on integrating fabric walls into overall room design. It suggests selecting the wall fabric first and then designing the rest of the room around it to ensure harmony. To allow the fabric to be the focal point, the surrounding décor should be kept more subdued. Fabric walls are deemed suitable for adult bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms, but not recommended for high-traffic areas like corridors or children's rooms due to potential damage. Gunter further suggests avoiding white fabric and opting for neutral or dark colours, as fabrics tend to hold richer pigments than wallpaper or paint. The article concludes by listing several suppliers for paper-backed fabrics, including Fermoie, K Decor, Phillip Jeffries, and Stereo. #InteriorDesign #FabricWalls #LuxuryInteriors #HomeDecor #WallCoverings #TexturalDesign #ProfessionalInstallation #SoundAbsorption #FermoieFabrics

Andrea Ruggiero's Soundsticks are innovative noise-reducing space dividers designed for Swedish furniture manufacturer Offecct. These products offer a free-standing alternative to traditional acoustic panels, addressing the challenge of reducing ambient noise in various environments. The design concept for Soundsticks was initially inspired by everyday paperboard mailing tubes, with early prototypes utilizing leftover paperboard tubes from upholstery fabric rolls. However, this initial approach faced challenges due to the weight of the tubes, their limited sound absorption capabilities, and inconsistent availability of the material in sufficient quantities for high-volume production. To overcome these limitations, the design evolved away from using actual paperboard tubes. Ruggiero and Offecct explored various alternative solutions and materials, ultimately deciding on acoustic felt. The final Soundsticks are constructed from sound-absorbing acoustic felt, which is molded into a tube shape and then covered with fabric. This acoustic felt is itself a sustainable material, made from a blend of shredded textile off-cuts and shredded PET derived from recycled water bottles, highlighting a commitment to upcycling and circular design principles. Independent testing by the Swedish acoustic authority Akustikverkstan has certified the Soundsticks' effectiveness in reducing ambient noise, underscoring their functional performance. The exterior fabric covers of the Soundsticks are also made from recycled materials, specifically leftover upholstery fabrics collected during Offecct's furniture production processes. This results in a varied palette of four colors—reds, greens, blues, and greys—which were identified as the most common upholstery colors used by the company through an internal audit. Further enhancing their sustainability, the end caps of the Soundsticks are crafted from recycled aluminum, sourced from drink cans. These end caps are designed to be entirely reusable and recyclable, and the overall construction of the Soundsticks requires no glue for assembly. This glue-free design facilitates complete recovery and recycling of the components, making Soundsticks a truly circular product. The space dividers are available in linear, radial, and clustered configurations. The linear and radial versions can be suspended from extruded aluminum tracks, allowing for flexible arrangement to create defined "rooms within rooms" within larger spaces. This project emerged from Offecct's desire to expand beyond its existing line of Soundwave acoustic tiles, with a specific focus on developing free-standing acoustic solutions that are not attached to walls. Soundsticks have been recognized for their innovative design and sustainability, being shortlisted for the Dezeen Awards 2020 in the workplace design category. The product represents a significant step forward in combining effective acoustic solutions with eco-conscious manufacturing practices. #AcousticProducts #SpaceDividers #RecycledTextiles #UpcyclingDesign #CircularEconomy #WorkplaceDesign #SustainableMaterials #AndreaRuggiero #Offecct #DezeenAwards

The increasing focus on acoustic comfort in various environments, from restaurants and hotels to open-plan offices and educational spaces, is now extending into the domestic realm. This trend highlights the importance of mitigating acoustic discomfort and stress through innovative design solutions. Sound-absorbing panels, once primarily functional, have evolved into sophisticated decorative elements that combine technological advancements with aesthetic appeal. These panels are designed not only to reduce reverberation and enhance psychophysical well-being but also to integrate seamlessly into interior aesthetics, featuring geometric, floral, and botanical motifs that can either relax or energize a space. A significant aspect of this evolution is the commitment to sustainability, with manufacturers incorporating eco-friendly materials and production processes. Constant research in this field is driven by the desire to create products that are effective, visually appealing, and environmentally and human-friendly. This includes the use of textile scraps, regenerated plastics, and natural raw materials, often resulting in minimal thickness suitable for various applications such as curtains, furniture coverings, and walls. These advancements create serene and harmonious soundscapes while offering a soothing sense of well-being. Several companies and designers are at the forefront of this innovation. Abstracta, in collaboration with Verk and designer Ingegerd Råman, has developed a series of 100% Made in Sweden acoustic panels. These panels feature layers made from textile scraps and polyester from recycled PET bottles, covered with a revolutionary fabric from waste wool fiber, all framed in untreated oak. Råman’s design emphasizes natural colors and wool textures, utilizing unique weaving techniques to achieve an authentic and timeless look. Despite their minimal thickness (no more than 45 mm), these panels offer high sound absorption, making them ideal for noisy environments. Baux, with its X-FELT collection designed by Form Us With Love, takes inspiration from Japanese Zen gardens. This collection offers large-format acoustic wall and ceiling coverings with exceptional creative freedom, allowing for custom graphics and lines through precisely cut modules and a versatile color palette. X-FELT panels are made from ultra-fine, high-quality GRS-certified PET polyester fibers, assembled using a layered construction technique. This results in a smooth, lightweight, and compact structure that efficiently absorbs sound without the need for harmful fire retardant treatments, thus eliminating toxic emissions. X-FELT holds a Class Bs.1-d0 fire rating and is fully recyclable, participating in the BAUX Circle take-back program for responsible disposal. Drip, designed by Stone Designs for Blå Station, offers sound-absorbing panels and wall decorations with a graphic design that evokes a fingerprint in soft clay. These panels provide imaginative flexibility, as they can be rotated in four directions or repositioned to create new arrangements. They attach to the wall with a magnetic clip for easy adjustment, maintaining effective absorption of ambient noise and echoes while enhancing both acoustic and aesthetic quality. Caimi's Biosphere collection, designed by Hsiang Han Hsu, leverages Snowsound-Fiber Textile technology to apply acoustic functions to various fabrics, including curtains, furniture upholstery, and wall coverings. Hsu’s designs aim to reinforce physical and mental well-being by evoking natural elements. The collection features jacquard workmanship inspired by flora (Forest, Woodland, Tundra) and primordial elements (Water, Stone, Clouds), as well as landscapes like Snow and Volcano. The diverse color palette reflects these themes, incorporating earthy tones, shades of green and gray, blues, and stark chiaroscuros. Slalom’s Bloom soundproof panels, a winner of the Hip Awards and Best of NeoCon 2024, exemplify ethical design. They integrate regenerated plastic materials from circular and recycled sources with bio-based materials derived from carefully selected biological corridors. Bloom panels incorporate real grasses, petals, and colorful flowers sourced from farmlands using traditional cultivation, ensuring they are free of chemical additives. The seasonal variation in grasses and flowers ensures each Bloom surface is unique. These panels seamlessly integrate into architectural designs, covering vertical spaces without visible seams and amplifying the floral artistry. A Velcro attachment system simplifies installation, removal, and reuse. #SoundAbsorbingPanels #AcousticComfort #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #EcoFriendlyMaterials #ArchitecturalDesign #InnovativeMaterials #DomesticLandscapes

The Vancouver-based studio, Dear Human, has developed an innovative wall decoration system called “Wallpapering,” which utilizes interlocking hexagonal tiles handcrafted from 100 percent post-consumer recycled paper. These tiles offer a unique and customizable solution for interior design, allowing individuals to transform their walls into dynamic canvases. The design emphasizes sustainability and creative expression, providing a distinct alternative to traditional wallpaper or wall coverings. Each hexagonal tile is produced manually in Vancouver, ensuring that every piece possesses individual characteristics. The manufacturing process begins with the collection of post-consumer paper from local businesses, which is then shredded and pulped. This pulp is subsequently pressed with air, a method that facilitates the release of dyes and aids in the drying process. Once dried, the tiles can be left in their natural state, which ranges from various shades of brown to bleached whites, or they can be painted or screen-printed. Dear Human offers an extensive library of patterns and colors, and custom designs are also available to cater to specific aesthetic preferences. Beyond their visual appeal, these paper tiles boast practical benefits. They are notably lightweight, resembling cork in density, yet as durable as board, making installation straightforward. Most common adhesives, including double-sided tape, are sufficient for securing the tiles to a wall. Furthermore, the tiles offer significant sound-absorbing properties, performing similarly to acoustic foams and cork boards, which can enhance the acoustic comfort of a space. This dual functionality allows them to serve both decorative and practical purposes in a home or office environment. Dear Human is the brainchild of designers Jasna Sokolovic and Noel O’Connell. Their creative philosophy centers on exploring traditional crafts, sustainable production methods, and the imaginative use and reuse of materials. The “Wallpapering” project reflects their commitment to these principles by transforming waste paper into a functional and aesthetically pleasing product for home interiors. Their work encourages a more conscious approach to decoration, providing a customizable, eco-friendly, and acoustically beneficial option for personalizing spaces. This system allows for endless possibilities in pattern creation and color schemes, enabling users to adapt their wall designs over time. The modular nature of the hexagonal tiles facilitates easy rearrangement, offering flexibility for evolving interior tastes or temporary installations. This innovative product addresses the growing demand for sustainable building materials and unique design elements in contemporary living spaces, while also contributing to waste reduction through the repurposing of post-consumer paper. #Wallpapering #DearHuman #RecycledPaper #HexagonalTiles #SustainableDesign #WallDecor #InteriorDesign #AcousticPanels #EcoFriendly