Autex Acoustics installation marks launch of Frontier Raft, plus new colours, patterns & textures.

When you next visit Material Source Studio Manchester, you'll be greeted by Autex Acoustics' newly updated POD, showcasing the just-launched Frontier Raft ceiling solution, plus an extensive range of acoustic panel options in a spectrum of colours, textures and patterns.

The new POD was designed by Bethy Finnigan, during her Design Internship at Autex, alongside Matilda, Autex's Design Lead. Their brief was to reimagine the existing space and create a more engaging experience for visitors. Drawing inspiration from Autex's London showroom, while considering the unique environment of Material Source Studio, the updated installation showcases the breadth of the Autex portfolio through a carefully curated and interactive customer journey.

Softer forms are introduced through enhanced product displays and a more welcoming atmosphere, encouraging visitors to engage directly with materials, colours and textures. By creating dedicated areas for sampling, specification and inspiration, the POD allows you as designers to experience first-hand how acoustic solutions can become an integral element of interior architecture rather than simply a functional requirement.

The refreshed POD now serves as a vibrant showcase of Autex's evolving product offering and provides architects and designers with an inspiring destination to discover acoustic materials that deliver both visual impact and meaningful performance.

Introducing Frontier Raft

As part of the POD relaunch, Autex unveils Frontier Raft, signifying a commitment to evolving its ceiling portfolio with this new extension of the popular Frontier range.

Building on the distinctive linear design language of Frontier, Raft delivers the same bold architectural aesthetic while introducing enhanced sustainability credentials. The system has been developed to maximise material efficiency and reduce embodied impacts, giving designers an option that supports both acoustic performance and environmental objectives.

Suspended as a standalone raft, the product creates visual structure and interest overhead while effectively managing reverberation and improving acoustic comfort. Its flexible design allows specifiers to define zones, add dimension and introduce colour within open-plan environments, making it ideal for workplace, education, hospitality and public spaces.

Available across the Autex colour palette, Frontier Raft demonstrates how high-performance acoustic solutions can contribute to more sustainable interiors without compromising on creativity, functionality or design impact. As an evolution of one of Autex's most recognised product families, it reinforces the brand's commitment to continuous innovation in acoustic design and sustainable manufacturing.

To celebrate the launch of the new POD, Autex hosted a special Colours event at Material Source Studio Manchester, bringing the new palette to life through a curated evening of design inspiration, networking and hospitality. Guests enjoyed a series of bespoke cocktails created by The Alchemist, each inspired by colours from the new collection, transforming the launch into a multisensory experience that explored the relationship between colour, materiality and atmosphere.

Experience Autex's new POD for yourself by visiting Material Source Studio Manchester, 1 Federation Street, between Monday and Friday, 9am-5pm. Click here for more details.