Designer Emma Hayes Redefines Acoustic Panels with Artful Touch

Designer Emma Hayes is transforming the perception of acoustic panels, turning what are typically seen as mundane office fixtures into striking pieces of art. In collaboration with Autex Acoustics, Hayes has launched a collection of sound insulation panels that draw inspiration from the natural landscapes of New Zealand. This innovative approach combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, proving that effective sound control can also be visually captivating.

The new collection features eight distinct designs, each resonating with the subtle beauty of New Zealand’s scenery. From the gentle patterns of native foliage to the texture of weathered stone, these mural-style wall treatments not only absorb sound but also enhance the ambiance of any space. The designs are aptly named: Sediment Forest, Eos Shadow, Nebula Mist, Vine Charcoal, Eos Blush, Modulations Shadow, Veil Rose, and Lakeside Daydream.

Hayes’ artistic touch is evident in the soft washes of color that create a painterly effect on the wall. The panels move away from the harsh, utilitarian look typically associated with acoustic treatments. Instead, they introduce warmth and organic beauty, making them suitable for both professional environments and residential settings. Their subtlety ensures they blend seamlessly into corporate spaces while still serving as genuine art pieces in homes.

In addition to their aesthetic qualities, the technical specifications of these panels are equally noteworthy. Each panel is engineered to reduce echo and enhance sound clarity, ensuring that beauty does not come at the expense of performance. The panels are printed on Autex’s Cube and Quietspace systems, designed for optimal acoustic performance while maintaining an appealing visual presence.

Sustainability is also a cornerstone of this collection. The acoustic panels are crafted from polyester acoustic fiber containing at least 80 percent recycled content, making them both carbon neutral and durable. The use of UV-cured inks in the printing process ensures vibrant colors without harmful emissions, demonstrating that environmental responsibility can coexist with quality and appearance.

Hayes’ reimagining of acoustic treatment highlights a significant shift in interior design. Rather than concealing sound-dampening materials, she has elevated them to focal points that enhance a room’s atmosphere. This innovative approach transforms ordinary soundproofing into refined design statements.

The timing of this launch is particularly relevant, as the demand for effective acoustic solutions rises with the prevalence of remote work and open-plan offices. Many seek to avoid clinical or industrial aesthetics while still addressing sound management. Hayes has struck a balance, creating panels that contribute to a calming environment in home offices and manage noise levels in restaurants and cafes, all while adding sophisticated visual interest.

Corporate spaces stand to benefit significantly as well, improving acoustics without sacrificing a modern, welcoming atmosphere. Hayes’ collaboration with Autex Acoustics reflects an ongoing trend in design where functionality and beauty are no longer viewed as opposing forces. By drawing inspiration from New Zealand’s natural landscapes and translating them into functional art, she showcases how innovative thinking can solve design challenges.

Ultimately, this collection illustrates that the best design solutions often arise from a shift in perspective. Rather than asking how to hide acoustic panels, Hayes asked how to make them beautiful. The result is a product that individuals can proudly display, turning a necessary building component into a celebrated design feature.