The success of an acoustic design project depends not only on how much material is used but also on where it is placed. Well-positioned sound-absorbing surfaces can dramatically improve comfort, even with a modest amount of material. The goal is to target the main sound reflection zones to achieve a balanced and natural environment.
Understanding sound reflections
When sound is emitted, it travels in all directions and bounces off hard surfaces such as walls, ceilings or floors. Each reflection contributes to reverberation — the persistence of sound after the source stops. Excessive reverberation creates echo, reduces speech clarity and increases fatigue.
1. The ceiling: a priority surface
The ceiling is usually the first surface to treat. It receives many direct reflections and has a large influence on perceived echo. Installing acoustic panels or hanging baffles helps reduce vertical reflections and distribute sound more evenly.
Ceilings are particularly effective in meeting rooms, restaurants or open workspaces. They combine acoustic performance with design flexibility and brightness.
2. The walls: balancing sound diffusion
Walls are responsible for most lateral reflections. Treating at least two facing or adjacent walls ensures balanced sound distribution. Wall-mounted acoustic panels should be positioned roughly at ear level (between 1 m and 2 m from the floor) to reduce reflections from speech and conversation.
Many architects integrate these panels as decorative features — explore examples on Inspiration.
3. Furniture and flooring
Floors and furniture contribute indirectly to acoustic absorption. Textile flooring, such as carpet, limits upward reflections. Curtains, bookshelves or upholstered furniture absorb mid-frequency energy and complement wall and ceiling treatment.
4. Volume and spatial balance
In larger rooms, sound travels further and requires a distributed treatment. Instead of concentrating absorption on a single wall, a balanced mix of ceiling and lateral panels provides a more natural sound field.
You can evaluate the best combination and surface area needed using Tester / Acoustic.
5. Aesthetic integration
Modern acoustic materials merge seamlessly into architecture. Decorative panels, printed frames or textile elements allow functional correction without compromising the visual identity of a room.
A balanced approach
Proper placement is not about covering every wall — it’s about achieving the right balance between absorption and reflection. Each room type (office, restaurant, school, lobby, studio) requires a specific distribution of absorbent surfaces.
Design your project via Customize or contact our team through Contact.