Interior Trends 2026: acoustics as a design feature
When acoustics officially became part of interior design in 2025, we saw in 2026 the next step: acoustic solutions take a central role in the overall design. Not just to control sound, but also to enhance atmosphere and identity. Read here how the interior trends for 2026 align with PET felt wall and ceiling panels in commercial environments.
From acoustic solution to design tool
In offices, hospitality venues, and public spaces, acoustics are increasingly integrated into the design process. No longer as a correction afterwards, but as a starting point for comfort and experience. Especially in open or multifunctional spaces, tranquility is no longer a luxury but a prerequisite for productivity and well-being.
In 2026 you will see that acoustic wall and ceiling panels are deliberately used to define zones, soften circulation routes and make spaces more human. Acoustics thus become an active design tool, rather than a technical necessity.
PET Felt: a soft material with a strong role
The importance of sustainable, circular materials continues to grow into 2026. PET felt fits seamlessly here. The material combines a long lifespan and recyclability with excellent sound-absorbing properties. This makes it interesting for B2B projects where sustainability is not only desirable but increasingly requested or even demanded.
Additionally, PET felt offers something that many other materials do not always have: softness. Not only acoustically, but also visually and tactilely. In environments where many hard materials are present, felt panels bring balance and calm.
Wall and ceiling panels as spatial architecture
In 2026, the role of walls and ceilings will definitively shift from background elements to spatial design elements. Ceilings, in particular, will receive more attention, for example in the form of baffles, ceiling islands, or layered structures. Wall panels are used as continuous surfaces, rhythmic patterns, or visual statements.
PET felt is ideally suited for these applications:
- Lightweight
- Easy to mould
- Suitable for both flat and three-dimensional designs
This results in interiors where acoustics, form, and spatial experience intertwine.
3D design: depth, rhythm, and experience
In 2026 we will also observe a clear shift towards three-dimensional interior design. Walls and ceilings are no longer approached as flat surfaces, but as volumes that add depth, rhythm, and direction to a space. This is particularly important in commercial interiors: 3D elements make large, open spaces more legible and more pleasant.
Acoustic wall and ceiling panels therefore gain more relief and layering. Think of panels that vary in depth, floating ceiling solutions, or combinations of wall and ceiling forming a continuous whole. Parametric designs not only enhance the spatial experience but also improve the acoustic performance.
Felt is ideally suited for this type of design. The material can be easily processed into three-dimensional shapes for walls or ceilings. This creates an interior that exudes calm but remains visually exciting.
Organic shapes and human-centric design
The sleek, hard lines of the traditional office are increasingly being replaced by flowing, organic shapes. This trend will continue strongly into 2026, especially in B2B interiors where human-centric design is at the forefront.
Finished panels, soft contours and natural patterns create a more comfortable living environment. Acoustic felt enhances this effect through its textile appearance and sound absorption. The result: spaces that feel less impersonal and where people can feel comfortable for longer.
Biophilic influences and natural colours
Biophilic design remains relevant in 2026, but is applied more subtly. Plants and greenery continue to be an important component, but they increasingly form one element within a broader whole. The focus shifts from literally 'adding more greenery' to creating a natural experience through colour, material, and texture.
Designers combine plants with calm, earthy colours, soft materials, and organic structures. This creates an interior that feels natural, without becoming too busy or trend-sensitive. Especially in work environments and projects with large surfaces, this balance plays an important role.
PET felt also fits well here. Due to its matte appearance, soft texture, and natural color tones, it contributes to a calm atmosphere and a pleasant sound quality, especially in wall and ceiling applications.
Our earthy tones
Light Beige
Desert Taupe
Sandy Beach
Taupe
Chestnut
Nugget
Moss
Forest
Leaf Green
Eucalyptus
Modular and scalable design
Flexibility remains essential in business environments. Interiors must be able to grow with the business or adapt to changing use. In 2026, you will therefore see many modular acoustic solutions: panels that vary in shape, colour, and composition, but together form one whole.
PET felt makes this possible without compromising appearance or acoustic performance, both on the wall and on the ceiling.
Acoustics as an inherent part of professional interior design
In 2026, acoustics will no longer be a technical addition, but an integral part of interior design. By cleverly using PET felt in wall and ceiling panels, spaces are created that feel right: functional, sustainable, and visually balanced.
Want to see how PET felt can respond to these interior trends within your project? Get in touch with us!
