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When open floor plans and hard surfaces dominate modern interior design, managing sound becomes more challenging than ever. One of the most effective and attractive solutions are acoustic ceiling clouds. Acoustic clouds, also known as acoustic ceiling clouds or acoustic cloud panels, are suspended, sound-absorbing panels that reduce echo and reverberation in open or high-ceilinged spaces. They offer a unique combination of performance and aesthetic flexibility—ideal for architects, designers, and facility managers aiming for both quiet and style. In this article, we'll walk through how ceiling acoustic panels work, where they're best used, the different types available, and what to consider when selecting the right product.
Acoustic clouds are suspended horizontally from the ceiling to absorb sound waves from multiple directions. Unlike traditional wall panels, they help reduce noise in areas where wall space is limited or when overhead absorption is more effective.
They are especially helpful in large or open environments, such as:
Typically, in a wall-mounted application, you are only utilizing one facing of the acoustical panel. This is fine, however, if you can utilize both facings, why not? By suspending the acoustic panels and decoupling them from the ceiling, sound is absorbed on the face side first.
Any sound that “flanks” around the edges of the panel and bounces off the ceiling can be absorbed by the back of the panel as well. Acoustic panels in the cloud configuration also work better at absorbing low frequencies. So, in a room that has a lot of low frequency build-up, cloud acoustic panels do a great job at capturing those low frequencies and putting a stop to their reflection.
Finally, they can also offer the ability to hide unsightly ceiling obstructions like ductwork, conduit and piping. This allows you to create a more inviting, acoustically comfortable space.
Ceiling clouds don’t just look great—they also offer a wide range of acoustic and aesthetic advantages that make them a smart investment for both commercial and residential spaces.
By hanging above reflective surfaces, ceiling clouds absorb sound from both above and below—significantly reducing echo and reverberation across the space.
Cloud-mounted panels are more effective at absorbing low-frequency sounds, which often accumulate in large, open areas.
Unlike wall-mounted panels, both sides of ceiling clouds are exposed. This maximizes the surface area available for sound absorption and increases overall effectiveness.
Available in a wide range of shapes, colors, and finishes, ceiling clouds bring visual depth and sophistication while improving acoustic comfort.
Install them in clusters, rows, or unique patterns to match your space’s design requirements while enhancing coverage and performance.
By reducing background noise and reverb, ceiling clouds help ensure spoken communication is clearer—especially important in classrooms, offices, and conference rooms.
Ceiling clouds can also help hide unsightly ceiling elements like HVAC ducts or electrical conduits, creating a more seamless and finished appearance.
Ceiling clouds can come in a variety of configurations, materials, and shapes. These are a few of the most common types of acoustic ceiling clouds to help align your vision with reality.
For a durable and refined acoustic solution, we suggest AlphaSorb® Fabric Wrapped Acoustic Ceiling Clouds. Available in a range of sizes up to 4' x 10', these suspended clouds are available in the full Guilford of Maine FR701 fabric line. Add extra style by choosing a beveled edge detail. You may also choose several different fabric styles and colors from the Guilford of Maine Anchorage, Guilford of Maine Studio 54, Guilford of Maine Whisper, and SoundSuede™ fabric lines.
If lead time is important to you, consider the AlphaSorb® Quick Ship Acoustic Ceiling Cloud. Available in select colors, you can mix and match sizes and colors to achieve any look. Easy to install, these acoustic ceiling clouds are the perfect DIY solution for your space. This quick solution is great for a variety of areas including offices, conference rooms, and recording studios.
If you are looking for an Eco-friendly solution, we recommend our Sustainable Series Cloud Mount Panel. The Ecose Fiberglass panel is wrapped in a white sustainable Eco-Fabric. If your project calls for a product that will meet green building standards, this is a fantastic choice. Each formaldehyde-free panel contains a minimum of 30% post-consumer recycled bottle glass. By using an organic bonding agent, the product is 70% less energy intensive than traditional petroleum-based bonding agents. The Sustainable Series Cloud Mount Panel can earn your project LEED points.
Make a bold statement with AcoustiCloud Ceiling Clouds. With a wide variety of colors of Guilford of Maine Fabric to choose from and with up to 23 different shapes available, these clouds make a statement. Virtually indestructible, AcoustiCloud Ceiling Clouds do not require special care during installation. These colorful, bold styles inspire whimsical acoustical creations.
AlphaSorb® Fabric Wrapped Acoustic Ceiling Cloud 48"x48"x2" in FR701 Eggshell
AlphaSorb® Fabric Wrapped Acoustic Ceiling Cloud 48"x48"x2" in Anchorage Waterfall
AlphaSorb® Fabric Wrapped Acoustic Ceiling Cloud 48"x48"x2" in Studio 54 Shimmer
AlphaSorb® Fabric Wrapped Acoustic Ceiling Cloud 48"x48"x2" in Whisper Peep
AlphaSorb® Fabric Wrapped Acoustic Ceiling Cloud 48"x48"x2" in SoundSuede™ Cobalt
AlphaSorb® Quick Ship Acoustic Ceiling Cloud in Medium Grey size 24" x 48" x 2"
A sound solution option with a unique appearance is Whisperwave® Ceiling Clouds. These popular acoustic ceiling clouds have a curved accent which gives reducing noise and reverberation a chic look. Available in numerous colors and made from fire-rated melamine foam, Whisperwave® Ceiling Clouds add dimension and style to every room. Suspend a single cloud or group them in creative bunches. Mount the clouds either flush to the ceiling or float them for drama, either way these clouds make a statement.
For a metal finish that blends in more with the ceiling, try the AlphaPerf® Metal Cloud. Available in 10 vibrant colors, a flat or v-groove pattern, and different thicknesses and sizes, you will be sure to find a metal cloud for every room. These elegant clouds reduce reverberation and echo and improve speech intelligibility.
Pasture Restaurant – SoundSuede™ Ceiling Clouds
Liberty University Band Rehearsal Room
Amazement Square Children’s Museum – Whisperwave® Ceiling Clouds
Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church
Verisk Health – Whisperwave® Ceiling Clouds
Agati Furniture – Whisperwave® Clouds
AcoustiCloud Ceiling Clouds
Grand Horizons Community Center – Whisperwave® Ceiling Clouds
Diamond Credit Union — AlphaSorb® Ceiling Clouds
Here are just a few examples of the cloud acoustic panels in action!
Selecting the best acoustic cloud ceiling depends on your unique needs. Here are a few factors to consider:
For a durable and refined acoustic solution, we suggest AlphaSorb® Fabric Wrapped Acoustic Ceiling Clouds. Available in a range of sizes up to 4' x 10', these suspended clouds are available in the full Guilford of Maine FR701 fabric line. Add extra style by choosing a beveled or mitered edge detail.
You may also choose from several different fabric styles and colors in the Anchorage, Studio 54, Whisper, and SoundSuede™ lines.
If lead time is important to you, consider the AlphaSorb® Quick Ship Acoustic Ceiling Cloud. Available in select colors, you can mix and match sizes and colors to achieve any look. Easy to install, these acoustic ceiling clouds are the perfect DIY solution for your space.
This quick solution is great for a variety of areas including offices, conference rooms, and recording studios.
Contact us to speak with an acoustic expert about your project, or browse our full collection of cloud panels to get started.
To learn more about how Acoustical Solutions can solve your noise control problems, use our contact form, call one of our Acoustical Sales Consultants at (800) 782-5742, or visit us on the web at acousticalsolutions.com.
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