Autex Acoustics has revolutionized Manchester's Bar Shrimp by integrating sophisticated sound-enhancing panels, establishing a truly immersive and energetic environment tailored for exceptional music appreciation. This innovative project highlights the critical interplay between advanced acoustic solutions and interior aesthetics in defining a venue's character and functionality.

Acoustic Innovation at Bar Shrimp: Merging Sound with Style

In the vibrant heart of Manchester, a unique establishment known as Bar Shrimp has redefined the sensory experience of a music-centric venue. Collaborating with the renowned acoustic brand Autex Acoustics, the bar has unveiled an interior masterfully designed to elevate sound quality while creating an intimate and adaptable atmosphere. The project, completed by October 2026, showcases Autex Acoustics' cutting-edge products, specifically the Mirage finish and Frontier Axis system.

The interior of Bar Shrimp is a symphony of design elements, where luxury acoustic panels blend seamlessly with layered textures, deep red tones, and ambient lighting. This thoughtful combination allows the space to effortlessly transition from a relaxed dining setting during the day to a pulsating late-night music destination. Richard Cossins, co-founder of Bar Shrimp, emphasized the foundational role of sound in the venue's conception, stating their mission was to place acoustics at the core of the experience to deliver a detailed and balanced sonic identity.

A pivotal component of this acoustic transformation is Autex Acoustics' Mirage finish. These lightweight PET acoustic panels, precisely customized with a laser etching technique, introduce a distinctive textured aesthetic to the bar's walls. Beyond their visual appeal, these panels effectively mitigate reverberation from the concrete floors, significantly enhancing the audio clarity. The Mirage finish also plays a crucial role in controlling ambient chatter, ensuring music remains the focal point without being overwhelmed by background noise. Additionally, above the main bar area, the Frontier Axis system was installed. This system not only provides further sound absorption but also contributes a striking grid-like visual element to the bar's overall design.

Notably, Autex Acoustics products are manufactured in the UK, utilizing a minimum of 80 percent recycled content, underscoring a commitment to sustainable practices. This aligns perfectly with Bar Shrimp's values, as Cossins highlighted the shared understanding between the collaborators regarding the impact of sound and acoustics on the human experience, coupled with a mutual dedication to environmental responsibility. Daniel Senior, director at Autex Acoustics UK and EU, pointed out that acoustic considerations are often an afterthought in hospitality design. However, this collaboration with Bar Shrimp proves that acoustics can, in fact, be an integral and enhancing aspect of a venue's design narrative.

The success of this acoustic integration has not gone unnoticed. Grace Dent, the esteemed Guardian food critic, lauded Bar Shrimp as "Manchester's new best thing ever," a testament to the comprehensive and thoughtful design. This project marks the third successful collaboration between Richard Cossins and Autex Acoustics, building on a history of innovative design solutions.

Autex Acoustics continues to push the boundaries of acoustic design, combining extensive expertise with forward-thinking solutions that enrich both the visual and auditory experiences of interior spaces. Their recent launch of 'Raft,' an addition to the Frontier range, exemplifies this commitment, offering sculptural acoustic design with reduced embodied carbon and material usage.

This innovative partnership between Autex Acoustics and Bar Shrimp offers a profound lesson for the hospitality industry. It demonstrates that by prioritizing acoustics and integrating them thoughtfully into the initial design phase, venues can create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also profoundly enhance the guest experience. The commitment to sustainability further elevates this project, showcasing a model for future design endeavors where environmental consciousness and superior sensory design go hand in hand. Investing in sound design can transform an ordinary space into an extraordinary destination, proving that the silent power of acoustics is a key ingredient in crafting truly memorable environments.