Ronel Jordaan’s Wall Panels

WORDS Mary Garner

Textile designer Ronel Jordaan’s sound-proofing wall panels dampen noise while beautifying the space they’re in.

The sound-proofing panels designed by Ronel and made by women she has trained emulate the curves, lines and colours she experiences on walks in Table Mountain National Park. We found out more about the raw material that moves her, her policy on training and hiring women, and where she believes her wall panels would work best.

What is it about working with wool that resonates with you?

I am fortunate to have found a medium that has so many possibilities. I have fun working with wool, and I like the challenges that come with translating my ideas into a product that can be made by the women I’ve trained.

Where do you think the panels would work best in the home?

They‘re designed for commercial and residential use, and they work to best effect in double-volume rooms in homes and in very large areas with concrete or other hard surfaces by changing the acoustic qualities of such spaces. They can also be used in playrooms or chill areas where there might be higher than normal noise levels.

What have you learnt from upskilling and employing women?

Women have a way of pooling their strengths, talking about problems and then finding solutions. It makes working with them a pleasure. They support one another, and that filters down to our business.

Why use only merino wool?

The fibre length, diameter, crimp and density of the wool enable the felt to absorb a wide range of sound frequencies. Felt is durable and stable in the presence of moisture and chemicals. And it can be moulded into three-dimensional forms that are perfect for acoustic use.

For more information, visit roneljordaan.com.