Is It Possible to Install Acoustic Solutions Without Compromising the Architectural Concept of a Space?
For many years, white square acoustic ceiling tiles were considered the default solution for controlling noise in buildings. While technically effective, they lack visual appeal. As a result, clients who place a strong emphasis on architectural quality and aesthetics have been reluctant to invest in acoustic treatment.
Fortunately, this perception is changing. Today, a wide range of solutions combine acoustic performance with refined aesthetics, transforming the way acoustics are integrated into commercial and workplace environments.
Solutions that meet both acoustic and aesthetic requirements
Compliance with acoustic standards in offices: a priority
Before considering appearance, any acoustic solution must first meet recognised acoustic performance requirements. In the UK, office acoustics are guided by several key standards and industry references, including:
- BS EN ISO 22955 Acoustics – Acoustic quality of open-plan office spaces, which provides technical recommendations for achieving appropriate acoustic comfort, particularly in open plan environments.
- BS 8233 Guidance on sound insulation and noise reduction for buildings, which outlines acceptable noise levels and design considerations for internal environments.
- British Council for Offices (BCO) Guide to Specification Widely referenced across the UK workplace sector, this guidance highlights acoustic comfort as a critical factor in employee wellbeing and productivity.
Choosing solutions adapted to the architecture of the space
For projects led by design and build teams, acoustic solutions must integrate seamlessly into the architectural concept. Today’s acoustic products are designed to complement interior schemes rather than detract from them.
Printed acoustic panels, contemporary colour palettes, suspended acoustic rafts, and vertical baffles all offer effective sound control while enhancing the visual identity of a space. The range of design possibilities continues to expand as we break the limits on acoustic design.
Key selection criteria include:
- Shapes: circular, rectangular, square, cloud forms, or fully bespoke designs
- Materials: Recycled PET Felt, acoustic foams, fabric wrapped panels,
- Colours: AllSfär 40+ shades of recycled PET felt, and a wide range of fabric wrapped options, enabling creative combinations using neutral, natural, or more expressive tones to suit any interior concept
A strong focus on personalisation
Modern manufacturing techniques now allow for a high level of customisation, ensuring each project can achieve a unique result.
Printing makes it possible to produce acoustic panels and partitions featuring bespoke visuals, such as company branding, graphic patterns, landscapes, or artistic designs. As AllSfär’s Ora print, and Ora Mural ranges show.
In addition, custom cutting of acoustic wall treatments allows solutions to be tailored precisely to each project. This flexibility significantly increases design possibilities and adds tangible value to both architectural and fit out services.
Key trends in acoustic treatment for commercial spaces
Wall mounted acoustic solutions
Acoustic wall panels and sound absorbing wall treatments reduce noise propagation and help control echoes and reverberation. These vertical solutions can be highly decorative, offering both acoustic performance and strong visual impact while blending seamlessly into interior schemes.
Suspended acoustic panels
Suspended acoustic panels are fixed using cables and adapt easily to existing building infrastructure. They are modular, compatible with direct and indirect lighting, and fully removable to allow access for maintenance. This makes them particularly well suited to offices undergoing refurbishment or reconfiguration.
Acoustic partitions
Acoustic partitions are used to define different work zones within open plan environments. Available in fixed, mobile, modular, or stackable formats, some partitions can also be suspended from the ceiling to create floating acoustic screens.
Like panels, partitions can be customised in terms of shape, material, and colour, allowing them to support both functional and design objectives.
Decorative acoustic solutions
Acoustic performance can now be integrated into lighting solutions. Pendant luminaires with sound absorbing shades, for example, contribute to overall acoustic comfort while enhancing the visual atmosphere. These solutions are particularly effective above meeting tables, collaboration zones, and breakout areas.
A collaborative approach to acoustics and architecture
Our success is built on close collaboration with our design and build partners, combined with a deep understanding of two closely connected disciplines: acoustics and architecture. By considering both from the earliest stages of a project, it is entirely possible to achieve acoustic comfort without compromising architectural intent.
