Design Trends in Acoustic Panels 2025: When Sound Control Meets Style
Sontext continues to bridge acoustic performance with visual design. As interior spaces evolve, architects and designers are integrating acoustic panels not only for sound control but also as a key design feature. Serenity Art Panels and Murano Timber Panels represent this shift—combining acoustic function with striking aesthetics suitable for offices, education, and hospitality projects.
A New Era of Design-Led Acoustics
2025 design trends focus on balance—natural materials, bold colour use, and acoustic integration that complements the architecture. Rather than hiding sound-absorbing elements, designers now make them visible, turning walls and ceilings into both functional and decorative surfaces. Sontext panels allow this dual purpose, ensuring acoustic comfort without compromising visual intent.
Natural Finishes and Warm Interiors
The return of timber finishes is a major influence in acoustic design. Murano Timber Panels provide warmth and texture while maintaining excellent sound absorption when paired with acoustic backings. This natural aesthetic is ideal for workplaces, hospitality venues, and educational spaces seeking a calm, grounded atmosphere. Timber panels can also be stained or painted to complement modern interiors.
Acoustics as Art
Large, open spaces are being softened visually and acoustically with custom artwork printed on acoustic panels. Serenity Art Panels turn walls into features that express identity while maintaining speech clarity and reducing echo. These panels are often used in reception areas, meeting rooms, and auditoriums where both impact and sound control matter.
Shapes, Texture, and Layered Surfaces
Another trend is three-dimensional design. Panels are now arranged in patterns or layers, creating movement and depth. Sontext’s manufacturing capabilities enable custom shapes, bevels, and modular layouts that bring rhythm to a space—echoing classic craftsmanship with contemporary form.
Technical Specifications — Design-Focused Acoustic Panels
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Panel Types | Serenity Art Acoustic Panels (custom-printed), Murano Timber Panels (grooved, slotted, or perforated) |
| Acoustic Performance (NRC) | Serenity Art Panels: NRC 0.80–1.00 | Murano Timber Panels: NRC 0.65–0.85 (with acoustic backing) |
| Core Materials | High-density mineral fibre (Serenity); MDF or plywood with perforations or slots (Murano) |
| Finishes | Printed fabric finish (Serenity Art); natural timber veneer, laminate, or paint finish (Murano) |
| Fire Performance | Tested to AS/NZS 1530.3; Group rating to AS 5637.1 depending on finish and substrate |
| Design Options | Custom artwork, colours, perforation spacing, groove profiles, and surface textures |
| Applications | Reception areas, auditoriums, offices, classrooms, hospitality interiors |
Specifications may vary with design and finish selection. For detailed acoustic performance data, please contact Sontext.
FAQs
What are the key acoustic design trends for 2025?
Natural materials, visible acoustic panels, bold colours, and textured surfaces are leading trends in acoustic design this year.
How can acoustic panels be integrated into interior design?
Panels can be used decoratively on walls and ceilings, forming part of the visual concept while reducing noise and echo.
Can Serenity Art Panels be customised with brand imagery?
Yes. Serenity Art Panels can feature custom graphics or artwork, ideal for corporate offices, schools, and hospitality interiors.
Are Murano Timber Panels suitable for large venues?
Absolutely. Murano Timber Panels deliver strong acoustic control and add warmth and sophistication to auditoriums and boardrooms.
Can different Sontext panels be combined in one project?
Yes. Serenity and Murano panels can be used together for layered acoustic and aesthetic results across multiple zones.
Next Steps
To explore design-focused acoustic solutions, visit our Serenity Art Panels page or learn more about Murano Timber Panels. For design and specification support, contact Sontext today.