All around the world, designers and architects are using the BAUX acoustic tiles and panels in exiting projects for exciting brands. In a series of newsletters, we aim to introduce you to a selection of projects and the mind masters behind designs of these acoustic artworks. We simply will call these newsletters Interviews #.

This week BAUX has been in conversation with Lexi Goddard
, interior designer at Siren Betty Design about the long-awaited renovation of Motel Bar in Chicago, USA. 

Lexi, what were your initial thoughts about the Motel Bar project?
When designing the space I thought a lot of about modularity (as seen with the custom shelves) and about creating furniture vignettes so that each space felt a bit different and could cater to a daytime lunch crowd, happy hour or late-night bar crowd. I wanted it to feel like a living room and reminiscent of mid-century Googie-style road-side motels but elevate it through custom pieces and quality materials.

What made you choose BAUX products for the space?
We knew this would be a high traffic bar with louder music for the night crowd so acoustical applications were necessary. The space is a modern concrete/steel space so we needed to create warmth with materials and also warmth by dampening the sound. I chose BAUX because it was both highly functional and available in a great variety of styles and shapes so it could work well with the concept/aesthetic of the space.

Which influences did you draw on to create the motel-themed space?
60s/70s style kitchens and residential living spaces, Googie architecture, mid-century Danish furniture design, roadside motels/road trips through the south of the U.S.

How did you use colour to transform the venue?
With colour we were able to transform a concrete and steel interior box to something more exciting and reminiscent of the 60s/70s where colour was used in most everyday spaces as opposed to the neutrals of today. We power-clashed loud prints by Knoll and used avocado greens, light blues, and burnt orange/tans to make the space come alive.

What is the importance of a well-designed acoustic environment?
This is a place where a lot of people come for small business meetings and to decompress after work, so as a team we felt like we needed people to be able to easily converse and not feel like they were competing with any added noise like music or crowds. We created small vignettes with the furniture and wanted it to feel intimate but also inviting for groups. Having a well-designed acoustic environment was essential.

What is your favourite aspect of the Motel Bar?
My favourite aspects of the Motel Bar are the custom-designed modular shelving behind the booths that we layered with found vintage and antique pieces from around Chicago. I also love the random tile pattern on the back bar and curved gold-tinted mirror! The BAUX acoustical material really adds texture to the lounge spaces as well and keeps that space feeling intimate.

What would the dream BAUX project look like?
My dream BAUX project would be creating an installation with custom patterns and multiple saturated coloured panels! Acoustic panelling does not have to be something that just “goes away” – with BAUX we’ve been able to make it a focal piece.

Visit the case Motel Bar to learn more about the project created by Lexi Goddard at Siren Betty design. Or visit the inspiration page for other BAUX acoustic interior design projects.