FORM AT WOOD integrates generational craftsmanship with sustainable practices and scientific innovation to create wooden panels that enhance the aesthetic and acoustic quality of interior spaces.
FORM AT WOOD, a family business rooted in Poland since 1966, has carved out a unique niche in the world of interior design with its innovative wooden panels. Known for seamlessly blending tradition with modernity, the company specializes in acoustic and lighting panels that elevate both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Building on their long-standing craftsmanship and sustainable practices, FORM AT WOOD sources high-quality, FSC-certified wood from Poland, Germany, Ukraine, and the United States, and remains dedicated to creating versatile and artistic solutions for interior spaces.
In a recent conversation with Michał Kluczka, Sales Manager at FORM AT WOOD, we explored the evolution of the company’s products, from the initial solid wood prototypes to the more durable plywood and solid wood combinations used today. Michał also shared insights into the challenges of working with wood, including moisture and maintenance, and how the company addresses these issues through careful material selection and innovative finishes.
READ our previous interview to learn more about the different aesthetics available.
Heritage, Craftsmanship, and Sustainability: The Legacy of FORM AT WOOD
FORM AT WOOD’s story is one of passion, craftsmanship, and a deep commitment to innovation. As the third generation continues to build on the company’s legacy, they bring a modern vision to traditional carpentry. The family’s hands-on approach has shaped both brands under their umbrella: FORM AT WOOD, known for its unique acoustic and lighting panels, and Own Studio, which creates bespoke wooden furniture.
“We are trying to combine traditional carpentry with the idea to bring unique products to the market in terms of design,” Michal Kluczka, sales manager, said in our interview with him.
The company’s sustainable practices are equally central to its mission, taking a proactive role in environmental stewardship through annual tree-planting initiatives. They source European oak and ash from Europe and American walnut from the United States. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in the thoughtful development of their products.
Early prototypes of solid wood panels faced durability challenges, prompting the team to innovate by combining plywood with solid wood, resulting in a stable and long-lasting solution. These advancements ensure that the beauty of natural wood can be enjoyed without sacrificing functionality.
Turning Challenges into Craft: Practical Solutions and Artistic Impact
Working with wood presents unique challenges, from moisture sensitivity to maintenance demands, but FORM AT WOOD has embraced these obstacles as opportunities for innovation. One of the primary issues with wooden panels is the risk of warping, especially when exposed to fluctuating humidity. To address this, the company has developed a hybrid construction method that combines a plywood base with a solid wood top layer. This combination not only enhances durability but also prevents the panels from bending or distorting over time.
“The first prototypes we created were fully solid wood, and after a few months, they completely warped. We realized we needed a solution that would make the panels stable and long-lasting.”
Applying hard wax oil as a finish further protects the panels from moisture and ensures easy maintenance, allowing users to refresh the surface without replacing the entire piece.
In addition to practical improvements, FORM AT WOOD’s panels offer significant acoustic and aesthetic advantages. The natural properties of wood contribute to noise absorption, making the panels ideal for interiors where sound control is essential, such as studios or spas. Additionally, the brand’s lighting panels enhance ambiance, blending aesthetic appeal with well-being. This combination of function and beauty has made the brand’s products increasingly popular among designers.
“We are doing our best to create products that not only have unique aesthetic aspects but also enhance the well-being of interior spaces.”
Whether used in residential or commercial environments, the panels offer a dynamic blend of texture, warmth, and acoustic comfort.
READ the company’s article on pros and cons for details on which type of wood fits in spaces for specific reasons.
Smart Choices: Tips for Selecting and Maintaining Wooden Panels
Choosing the right wooden panels for your space requires careful consideration of both installation and maintenance. To ensure long-lasting beauty and durability, here are a few essential questions to ask:
- What are the environmental conditions of your space?
- How will you maintain the panels?
- What is your budget and design vision?
Wood is sensitive to humidity and temperature changes, so make sure your interior conditions are stable. FORM AT WOOD’s panels are designed to withstand normal indoor environments, but they are not recommended for areas prone to direct water exposure, such as kitchen backsplashes.
“Even the best coating can’t fully protect wood from direct water contact, so it’s better to place panels in spaces where moisture is not a constant concern.”
The brand’s hard wax oil finish ensures durability and ease of care. Dusting regularly with a microfiber cloth helps maintain the surface, while occasional re-oiling can keep the panels looking fresh for years. The process is straightforward: lightly sand the surface, reapply the recommended oil, and allow it to dry.
Wooden panels can vary in cost, with options ranging from affordable ash to the more luxurious American walnut. Combining 2D and 3D elements can also help manage costs while achieving a visually dynamic effect.
“Our modular approach allows designers to create unique compositions while keeping the project budget under control,” said Kluczka.
By carefully evaluating these aspects before purchasing, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your design goals and maintenance capabilities. Choosing quality panels and following simple upkeep practices will ensure that your investment stands the test of time.
Sound Well-Being: Enhancing Interiors with Acoustic Panels
Acoustic comfort is essential for well-being, especially in spaces prone to noise pollution from the exterior or where sound clarity is crucial. Studies have shown that poor acoustics can negatively impact mood, productivity, and overall health. To address these concerns, FORM AT WOOD developed the HEXAGO acoustic panels in collaboration with specialists from the AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow. These panels are specifically designed to reduce reverberation, improve sound transmission, and create a balanced auditory environment.
“We wanted to develop a product that not only looked beautiful but also made a tangible difference in the acoustic quality of a space.”
Among the various options available, the HEXAGO P-A and HEXAGO CM-A panels stand out as the top performers, achieving the highest sound absorption class A (EN ISO 11654) with a Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) of 1.00. This makes them ideal for rooms where acoustics are essential, including recording studios, conference rooms, and private listening spaces.
The company also offers a practical solution for determining the optimal number of panels required: the PPTF calculator. This tool, based on research and real-world testing, helps clients select the right amount of panels for their specific room dimensions and acoustic needs.
“Even a single panel can make a difference, but to achieve significant acoustic improvement, it’s crucial to choose the correct number based on the room size.”
By integrating sound-absorbing and diffusive functions, these panels not only enhance acoustic performance but also add aesthetic value to interiors. The ability to combine different shapes and configurations allows designers to create customized, sound-optimized environments that elevate both comfort and style.
Illuminating Innovation: The Rise of LED Panels
FORM AT WOOD’s innovative approach to interior design continues with their latest product line: LED panels. Introduced last year, these lighting solutions have quickly gained popularity among interior designers and architects for their ability to seamlessly integrate aesthetic appeal with functional illumination. Treated as a complementary feature to the brand’s decorative and acoustic panels, these LED panels are designed to enhance ambient lighting while maintaining the brand’s signature wood-crafted aesthetic.
“We see lighting as a natural extension of our panel systems,” explained Michał Kluczka. “By combining our acoustic and decorative solutions with LED technology, we offer clients the flexibility to create cohesive and dynamic interiors.”
One of the key reasons behind the success of these panels is their ease of installation and maintenance. Each package includes all necessary accessories, from wiring diagrams to mounting materials. The panels are designed to be mounted with strong double tape, and the cables are arranged according to a detailed drawing. Should an LED panel fail, the company provides a replacement, ensuring minimal disruption. This practical and client-oriented approach has made LED panels a favorite among professionals seeking reliable, stylish lighting options.
With new releases planned for this year, FORM AT WOOD continues to push the boundaries of combining wood craftsmanship with modern lighting technology.
