The concept of Australasian textile and wall covering design instantly conjures up images of exquisite creations that celebrate the layered geographical context, cultural legacy and creative breadth of the land Down Under. Merging intricate shapes, dynamic patterns and captivating palettes, the distinct expression of the Australian and New Zealand identity through the rich tapestry of woven threads yields captivating narratives that transcend time.

Materialised, a family-run textile and wall covering printer and wholesaler based in Sydney, has mastered the ability to bring these stories to life in the most alluring ways. Since its inception in 1980, the brand has been meticulously weaving fibres of creativity and innovation, creating an exquisite range of emotive and distinctly original commercial products. Born out of a vibrant dialogue with a constellation of accomplished Australian and Indigenous artists, each product is visually delightful, culturally resonant and utterly unique, embodying Materialised’s dedication to producing exclusive products that push the bounds of artistry with their rich narratives and visual splendour.

And now, Materialised pushes this envelope once again with the release of the innovative AcoustiCalm panels. What makes this ingenious product unique? The poetry of design finally meets the pragmatism of sound absorption.

In this launch, Materialised leverages the signature creative dynamism of their exclusive patterns by infusing them onto high-performing acoustic panels. The innovative product boasts a Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) ranging from 0.4 to 0.85, helping to reduce noise levels, minimise echo, and improve overall sound quality, helping designers create more comfortable, acoustically refined spaces – a goal that has been gaining increasingly more traction in commercial design.

In the world of constant sensory overload careful acoustic management has become absolutely essential. Soundtracked by the rhythmic drum of modern life, spaces we inhabit – from dynamic offices and peaceful healthcare centres to boutique hotels hoping to envelop their guests in quiet luxury – demand a thoughtful approach to acoustics as a foundational element of their very essence. In medical context, noise reduction directly correlates with improved patient recovery, and in the energising typology of the modern workplace, it supports productivity, improves wellness outcomes and enhances privacy within open-plan layouts. In this context, acoustically considered design becomes an act of cultivating spaces that genuinely nurture both mind and body, making the sound-absorbing AcoustiCalm panels an indispensable design solution.

But AcoustiCalm are certainly much more than sound absorbers – they’re captivating sonic sculptures that prioritise creative expression just as much as acoustic comfort. Creating a strong visual identity is paramount to forging the right atmosphere in any commercial space, and Materalised’s exclusive selection of stunning patterns is bound to cater to bring any creative vision to life. Whether it’s a calming interior that instils serenity or a bold, immersive space, both sight and sound play an integral role in shaping an authentic and cohesive design narrative. Materialised’s innovative sound-absorbing panels offer designers a whole new palette that allows them to seamlessly weave together visuals and acoustics into unique, cohesive and captivating stories.

“Acoustic panels are predominantly available in plain or etched finishes,” says Sandra Gabbert, Director of Gabbert Design. She specified Materialised acoustic panels on her recent project up North, bringing the organic geometry of patterns inspired by the Australian flora to the dual office space for the Infrastructure Northern Territory and the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics (DIPL). “Recognising the opportunity to elevate the design, I reached out to Materialised with a vision to incorporate the distinctive patterns from Patricia Braune’s Collection onto acoustic panels.”

This ability to imprint stunning patterns onto any commercial substrate – including acoustic wall panels – underscores the very essence of AcoustiCalm’s innovation – the liberation of acoustic panels from the realm of pure functionality into the world of expressive design.

“The sampling process was particularly seamless, with a comprehensive selection of textures and finishes that allowed us to visualise the design intent in real-world conditions,” Sandra recalls. “I was able to seamlessly integrate these striking designs across multiple surfaces, including acoustic panels, wall vinyl, and fabrics, to create a cohesive aesthetic that enhances both the functionality and visual appeal of the space.”

Sandra adds that the collaboration not only enabled her to push the boundaries of material application – it also empowered her to deliver a more intricate, nuanced and dynamic design solution fusing the functional benefits of acoustic performance with artistic expression.

What makes AcoustiCalm a particularly appealing design solution is the fact that its creative and functional potential is bolstered by a suite of environmental qualities. The panels are crafted from 100% rPET – a blend of 60% recycled post-consumer and 40% recycled pre-consumer PET – and this commitment to material innovation is independently validated by Global GreenTag’s GreenRate Level A certification. Materialised’s focus on sustainability is further highlighted by the fact that they’ve partnered with TRAKS to recycle the offcuts and offer a take-back program for any used uncontaminated panels or samples. Returned products are shredded, recycled back into felt and reused, prioritising circularity and responsible end-of-life management.

The panels are also printed at a cutting-edge, energy-efficient digital Sydney printer, using exclusively VOC-free, Greenguard Gold certified ink that contains no heavy metals. They’re then supplied pre-trimmed, which ensures that patterns can be seamlessly aligned, and the installation process is appropriately streamlined.

“The Materialised acoustic panels were straightforward to understand in terms of its specifications, installation, and overall integration within the design,” Sandra enthuses. “The technical documentation provided clear guidelines for both material properties and installation methods, ensuring a seamless process from concept to execution.”

By transcending the traditional limitations of acoustic panels, AcoustiCalm signal a new era in interior design: with Materialised, practical acoustic solutions transform into dynamic design elements that enhance an experience of the space on multiple planes. These sustainable acoustic panels not only empower designers to curate immersive, striking, healthier and profoundly comfortable interiors – they inspire them to create exceptional commercial spaces where design signs and silence truly speaks volumes.

Excited to experience AcoustiCalm’s captivating visual acoustics? Download the digital lookbook to see the whole collection and order sampling.

Gabbert Design
https://www.gabbertdesign.com