The Next Frontier: Designer 3D Acoustic Raft

At the forefront of acoustic design, the release of a new collection known as Frontier Acoustic Raft by Autex Industries has propelled the innovative acoustic system to centre stage in the world of commercial interiors.

Rather than considering the acoustic system as a purely functional item, Raft reimagines the possibilities with a collection of three-dimensional geometric forms covering everything from trapezoidal beams to the more classic rectangular beam. 

“What this means is that Raft can be used to curate spaces that offer a distinctive aesthetic and a contemporary flair,” Autex Industries’ creative director Jonathan Mountfort says. 

“Raft beams are made of 100 percent polyester fibre and offer extremely high acoustic absorption, allowing for improved functionality for lower frequencies such as speech.”

The forms that make up the Raft collection offer robust design options to create anything from solid-look beams to more abstract installations, Jonathan says. 

“These three-dimensional forms are an extension of the Autex Frontier family, which offer a two-dimensional fin-like form.”

Suitable for a variety of spaces, Raft acoustic beams can be specified in offices, education facilities, retail, hospitality, and commercial applications. “They’re a really versatile option in that they can be suspended from the ceiling or mounted to walls to offer a range of design and functional outcomes,” Jonathan says.

While the beams deliver a solid appearance, they are lightweight yet hold their shape. “Raft beams are delivered as a flat pack and are folded and ‘zipped’ together on site. They can be disassembled when no longer required and the material recycled.” 

The range of three-dimensional forms allows for endless possibilities in terms of creating vibrant and distinctive features in commercial settings, with configurations limited only by the imagination. “Because they’re so lightweight and easily assembled and disassembled, the option exists for spaces to be updated as regularly as desired.”

The Raft collection is available in four standard designs, each of which is scored, folded and zipped together using a locking channel. The panels can be rearranged in countless configurations to create unique and personalised spaces, Jonathan says. “However, Raft can also be completely customised to match the scale of the space.”

Currently, there are 17 standard colours with bespoke tones available for larger orders. 

Frontier Acoustic Raft is designed and manufactured in New Zealand at Autex Industries' Avondale premises. 

Find out more about the future of designer acoustic systems for commercial interiors.