Behind the Design Process Part 3: Talking Hyper Sonic with Michael DiTullo
By Alexis Wagman
The Hyper Sonic Collection launch was the first launch from Carnegie Acoustic Solutions, and we went big. Big on design, big on sustainable innovation, and big on inspiration. In parts one and two of this interview, Michael walked us through what designers are up against when they’re choosing acoustics for their projects, how he approaches designing a collection of acoustic products, and how the team executed designs to reassure designers they’re making the sustainable choice, and more. To close this interview, we wanted to hear more about how this collection compared to his previous designs, more about the aesthetics, and also, his personal favorites.
Michael's process sketches
What sets this collection apart from your previous work or other collections in the market?
From a pure form perspective, this collection might be the closest to my personal tastes. Specifically, the very bold and organic forms in the Kirei products and the crisp flame-like surfaces on the Xorel Artform products. Ironically, though, the color palette is very far from my personal taste. The color palettes we chose to launch this collection were purposeful because I wanted to show how we can put our twist on what is going on out there trend-wise while having a shape language that was very me.
Detail showing bold forms of the Breeze Clouds and Rise 3D Panels
What do you hope people will take away from experiencing this collection?
One of the things I love about working in this space is that we are designing for designers. Mostly, I hope people will take away inspiration and the sense that they can do so much with acoustics beyond satisfying a requirement. I hope with this collection we have created something beyond the expected. At the core of it, I really hope with this collection we havecommunicated to designers that every project they have is an opportunity to collaborate and make something special together.
How did you decide on the color palette for this collection, and what emotions or messages were you aiming to convey through these choices?
Both Xorel and Kirei’s PET come in a very large, industry leading assortment of colors, so pulling together a launch color theme can be difficult. We want to show the strength of our color range but we also want to create a cohesive launch aesthetic that feels curated and intentional. For this palette I decided to go against what we typically do with cool neutrals and strong color pops and instead pulled us to an overall warm palette with a lot of subtle variation. There is this feeling out there that we want warmth, comfort, positivity in our spaces. The palette makes me think of what photographers call Golden Hour, when the sun gets low in the sky and washes everything in muted warm tones of tans and dusky pinks.
From left to right: Drape 3D, Contour Tile, Slope 3D, Cypher Panel, Range 3D
Are there any signature or standout pieces within this collection that you're particularly proud of or that hold special significance?
The Contour Tile was really just for me when it was a concept. When I drew that one up I thought "there is no way this will move forward," but I just needed to see it. I was so surprised that the team loved it as much as I did, so much so that it barely changed from the first prototype. It is really rare that a product stays so pure throughout the development process.
On the Xorel Artform side, Range took a similar path. I can’t always describe the way my brain works as a designer, but the first thing I thought of when I got to work on Artform was having two opposing peaks and stretching Xorel across it to see what it would do. I knew the light play would be dynamic but I wasn’t sure how the team would feel. Funny enough, it turned out to be a favorite for multiple people on the product team. If I had to choose personal favorites, it would be Contour and Range for these reasons.
Contour Tile and Range 3D
The Hyper Sonic collection was created to revolutionize the way designers specify acoustics. From biobased textiles made from sugarcane to PET products made with post consumer recycled plastics, we wanted to deliver iconic and innovative acoustic solutions that center sustainability and make your design process easier.
We’re here to support you from inspiration to installation. Whether you want to save billable hours with custom acoustic design layouts, or need a professional acoustician analysis, Carnegie Acoustic Solutions Design Services offers 360 degree support.
Start your project here.
Find inspiration and ideas with Xorel Artform Idea Starters.
Explore Carnegie's Hyper Stretch Collection
Explore the Hyper Rhythm Collection from Kirei by Carnegie
About the author
Alexis Wagman is the Content Marketing Specialist at Carnegie. Passionate about what connects all of us, she seeks to leverage creative Marketing and design to communicate real stories.