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Stylish Fabric or Wood Acoustic Panels Help Reduce Unwanted Noise in Internal or External Spaces

12 March 2021

Tommy Franklin

When it comes to interior design, one of the most important considerations when fitting out an interior or exterior space is the reduction of noise levels. Finding the best way to reduce unwanted sounds without compromising on visual elements and overall aesthetics is not always an easy task, but with a wide variety of decorative acoustic panels to choose from, combined with a touch of daring imagination, an otherwise boring, noisy space will be transformed into a wonderful and functional experience.

With the almost limitless choice in designs, patterns, textures and colours, acoustic panels for ceilings, walls and other applications work by absorbing and minimizing internal and external noise that is reflected off hard surfaces, such as glass and masonry, allowing for a much quieter environment wherein conversations are made much easier and more pleasant, which is of particular importance in meeting rooms or boardrooms. For spaces such as sound studios, auditoriums and theatres, the quality of the acoustics is essential. The potential applications for acoustic panels are endless, but are most ideal for any space where a better auditory experience is most desirable and even required, including schools, restaurants, churches, gymnasiums and community centres.

No matter the style or effect sought, there's bound to be an acoustic panel that fits the project. Whether made from wood or fabric, appealing and stylish noise-reducing ceiling panels or wall tiles can be inspired by art images or fashioned into simple, bold designs to suit. Apart from the traditional, standard sizes and shapes, panels can be made into interesting arrangements of forms and patterns, including interweaved, layered or pressed, and anything in between. Let's take a look at two of the most popular acoustic panel types; fabric panels and wood panels.

Fabric panels

With a full range of patterns and colours of prints available to be used as wrapping, fabric panels easily complement the décor of any room while absorbing unwanted sounds and reverberations at the same time. Particularly suitable for public spaces that also require stylish and colourful aesthetics, such as in noisy cafeterias or echoing halls, fabric panels are very durable, and based on the certified sound absorption profiles for the different panel thicknesses, they are also predictable in their effectiveness.

Wood panels

This option offers a natural look to the panelled space while adding architectural emphasis. Wood panels are available in three types of surface finishes; natural wood veneer, laminate or paint. Combined with an extensive choice of colours in high gloss or matte, a perfectly matching finish can be selected to suit any project. As far as patterning is concerned, the options of either perforated, grooved or slotted will determine the panelling's specific sound absorption profile, so it's important to select the best pattern for the intended application.

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