FilzFelt was founded in 2008 by two felt-loving designers, Kelly Harris Smith and Traci Roloff. While working in architecture and interiors, Kelly and Traci saw an opportunity to bring the natural warmth and acoustic elements of felt to the world of interior design. Rooted in sustainability, the brand collaborates with designers around the world to produce wall panels, floor coverings, and even hanging applications, like their latest offering: Nest Baffle. Nest turns the sound down from overhead in playfully rounded panels that can be installed in endless orientations to fit any space.
Kelly joins us this week to discuss the design process.
Raymond Paul Schneider: When did you first start developing this new collection?
Kelly Harris Smith: We began developing the Nest baffle collection in 2022, with the goal of addressing acoustical challenges in modern spaces while enhancing the tactile experience. My goal was to expand upon FilzFelt’s existing baffle line, pushing the boundaries of both design and functionality.
RPS: What was the overall timeline from conception to final design?
KHS: The process took about two years, allowing time for design refinement, material selection, and testing to ensure both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
RPS: What was your initial inspiration, and where did the idea(s) come from?
KHS: Nest Baffle is a celebration of modularity and simplicity. I aimed to design a system that is not only visually striking but also versatile. By utilizing repeated shapes and incorporating shifts in color and height, this acoustic baffle system can be installed in a way that feels both intentional and organic. The ability to group and nest them allows for creative installation around challenging ceiling moments or structural obstacles, making them adaptable to various spaces.
RPS: Describe your overall creative and design process.
KHS: In every project, my focus centers on functionality and the end user. The brief for Nest was refreshingly broad, pushing me to explore new possibilities beyond FilzFelt’s offerings. With FilzFelt’s newer manufacturing capabilities, we could experiment with new forms. As a fun proof of concept for the Nest baffles, I rolled up my sleeves and created a series of quick (and crude/imperfect) block prints using three shapes: quarter round, half round, and straight. This hands-on exercise not only sparked my creativity but also revealed the vast possibilities this modular acoustic baffle system can offer.
RPS: What methods, tools, and materials did you use to develop and prototype this design?
KHS: In addition to my block print sketches, we combined digital tools with hands-on prototyping throughout the design process. The primary materials are wool felt and a recyclable substrate — both known for their excellent acoustic properties and tactile warmth.
RPS: Did you have a specific audience or theme in mind?
KHS: While not targeting a single audience, we focused on spaces like modern offices and public areas, where acoustic solutions blend seamlessly with design. The goal was to combine nature-inspired forms with functional design.
RPS: Describe your brand’s overall DNA and ethos.
KHS: Both FilzFelt and [I, personally] focus on creating purposeful, sustainable designs that evoke an emotional connection. We value craftsmanship, innovation, and tactile experiences, aiming to offer timeless, functional products.
Photography by Somerby Jones.
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