As hybrid work evolves and employee expectations change, workplace design has shifted away from conventional silence. From quiet areas to collaboration zones, offices are rethinking the role of sound and using design strategies to shape soundscapes as opposed to focusing on noise elimination in hopes of creating more productive environments.
Motif Acoustic Panels Collection | Luxxbox
Luxxbox has expanded its Motif Acoustic Panels collection. First introduced in 2023 with Motif Basica, the collection now includes five new panels: Motif Ranura, Motif Whisperlines, Motif Pulse, Motif Shilap, and Motif Veil. Engineered for integration with Luxxbox acoustic lighting, Motif Acoustic Panels are suitable for a range of applications, including wall and ceiling panels, partitions, pinboards, and custom acoustic treatments. The panels achieve a noise reduction coefficient (NRC) of 0.85 across a broad frequency range, making them ideal for reducing noise levels and creating comfortable environments.
“My whole philosophy behind design is about creating a happy environment. What makes you feel comfortable and relaxed? What makes you feel productive and efficient? It’s all based on feelings and emotions—when you enter a space, you just know,” said Jason Bird, founder and creative director of Luxxbox. “Subconsciously, stepping into a space with good, comfortable acoustics can instantly make you feel more at ease. That’s ultimately what we’re trying to achieve. We want to provide the market with thoughtfully designed products that people are drawn to for their aesthetic, but that are also made from soft materials with acoustic properties.”
EchoSky Neu Baffle System | Kirei
Kirei has announced the launch of its EchoSky Neu Baffle System to “do more with less;” replacing metal frameworks with lightweight PET crossbars. This new and improved system reduces weight, simplifies handling, and lowers the number of required hanging points for easier installation. Inspired by modern architecture and heat sinks, the geometry of EchoSky Neu is meant to minimize unwanted echoes. EchoSky Neu is available in three standard profiles: Linear, Steppe, and Tide, which allow multiple configurations and varied ceiling designs. Each unit measures 72” by 36”, enabling designers to create large-scale installations and sculptural ceilings.
“Good acoustic design can be key to collaboration in the office through a combination of private workplaces and collaboration spaces. It is a necessity, and acoustics need to be present in every location. Private call rooms or conference rooms must have good acoustics, not just for who is in the room, but for the people who may be nearby,” said Dana Pucillo, vice president, Carnegie Acoustic Solutions. “Small amenities such as gathering areas for lunch or breaks would encourage someone else to get up from their desk to stretch and promote collaboration. This shouldn’t take place where everyone else in the office can hear you loud and clear. These are investments, but employee turnover costs a lot more. We all want teams to contribute to the business while feeling valued and inspired by the business they work for.”
Laminate Series Acoustic Slat Wall Panels | Altispace
Built with precision, each panel features a durable laminated MDF face paired with a 9mm PET acoustic felt backing made from recycled materials. The panels, engineered to deliver sound absorption (NRC 0.5 to 0.6), reduce echo and are ideal for managing ambient noise in open spaces, conference rooms, home theaters, restaurants, and more. The panels feature a modern slat design, and are available in Standard (equal slat widths) or Variant (variable slat widths) to match specific interior styles. They are available in Black, White, Gray, Silver Gray, and Charcoal Gray, as well as 21 standard HPL finishes with options for custom colours. Their eco-conscious design also makes them a smart choice for LEED and green building projects.