An innovative acoustic design project for a modern hotel experience
In contemporary hospitality, every space must deliver an immersive experience, combining aesthetics, comfort and functionality. Among the elements that are often underestimated, noise nevertheless plays a key role in how guests perceive well-being.
Aware of this challenge, the Sogepar Group decided to rethink key areas of the Aiden by Best Western – Le Magnetic Hotel in Clermont-Ferrand. The objective was clear: improve acoustic comfort while reinforcing a strong visual identity. To achieve this, the group called on architect Julie Gauthron (Exquise Esquisse) and the acoustic ceiling solutions offered by Eurocoustic.
In hotels, dining and social areas are high-traffic spaces. The restaurant and bar go beyond their primary function: they are the vibrant heart of the establishment, used daily by guests, staff and visitors.
One of the major challenges was to ensure optimal acoustic comfort in these heavily used areas. For example, the restaurant also serves as a transitional space leading to guest rooms and regularly hosts occasional events such as pop-up stores. This versatility required a high-performance acoustic solution capable of adapting to different uses.
”Acoustics are a crucial dimension for us, especially in noisy environments like hotel restaurants”, emphasizes Anaïs Polosse, Marketing and Communication Director – Sogepar Hôtel.
Julie Gauthron therefore sought a solution that could effectively reduce sound reverberation while creating a warm, contemporary and original atmosphere, consistent with the hotel’s name and identity: Le Magnetic.
The choice of acoustic ceiling tiles proved to be far more than a technical decision. Inspired by the volcanic energy of the Clermont-Ferrand region, Julie Gauthron saw this material as an opportunity to express a bold artistic vision:
”I wanted to materialize magnetic energy, this elusive color, and create a link between the power of natural elements and volcanoes.”
The EuroColors collection, combined with Tonga® A acoustic tiles by Eurocoustic, rated Class A for sound absorption (αw = 1), made it possible to bring this vision to life.
“I love color—that’s why I chose Eurocoustic acoustic ceiling tiles. The richness of the color range allowed me complete creative freedom,”
explains the architect.
The Rosée and Cuivre shades, chosen for the restaurant and bar areas, create a warm and bold atmosphere, perfectly in harmony with the lighting fixtures and LED neon lights, which are key design elements of these living spaces.
Julie Gauthron also worked on the ceiling layout, positioning the tiles at a 45° angle to create a subtle diamond pattern:
“The idea was to break away from traditional codes and add an extra design dimension to the ceiling, turning it into a fully-fledged architectural element.”
Two additional shades enhance the project on the hotel’s upper floors:
- Crépuscule, a creamy tone, used to elegantly highlight certain areas
- Météorite, a deep blue-grey shade that covers larger surfaces and reinforces a strong visual identity
The combination of standard and large-format tiles (600 × 600 mm and 1,800 × 600 mm) further strengthens the originality of the project. This approach makes it possible to play with volumes and perspectives while emphasizing the unique character of each space.
Installation was carried out with great precision by Mazet Bâtiment, ensuring a result in line with the project’s high ambitions.
A high-performance acoustic ceiling solution for hotels
Initial feedback has been unanimous: the acoustic solution implemented significantly improves guest comfort. The hotel, which is regularly fully booked, also features a spa area, further reinforcing its well-being positioning.
The ceilings play a central role in creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere, while also providing a strong aesthetic signature. The combination of colors, formats and layout is praised for its originality and perfect consistency with the hotel’s overall concept.
Project overview: acoustic ceiling Installation at Le Magnetic Hotel
- Project: Aiden Best Western Clermont-Ferrand – Le Magnetic Hotel & Spa
- Segment: Hotel
- Country / City: France, Clermont-Ferrand
- Product: Tonga® A 22
- Architect: Julie Gauthron
- Photographer: Shoootin
- Installation company: Mazet Bâtiment
- Year of completion: 2023
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