Lately, we’ve been working on something new at Zora Botanica: a modular felt wall panel system designed to bring more function, texture, and flexibility to everyday walls.
Like many parents, I’m constantly trying to manage an ever-growing collection of children’s artwork. There are drawings from school, weekend crafts, handwritten notes, and tiny creations that feel too special to throw away. They tend to accumulate on the refrigerator, across countertops, and inside drawers—waiting for a better way to be displayed.
I wanted to create a place where my children’s artwork could live visibly, without making the room feel visually cluttered.
Functional, but Still Elevated
Traditional bulletin boards are useful, but they often feel temporary or overly utilitarian. I wanted something that could work as a pinboard while still feeling like an intentional part of the room.
The goal was to create a wall system that feels elevated, versatile, and low commitment.
The individual felt tiles can be arranged in different configurations depending on the wall, the room, or how much display space is needed. They can hold artwork, photographs, reminders, and small collections, but they also add softness, texture, and subtle dimension when left partially uncovered.
Because the system is modular, it can grow and change over time. You can begin with a small grouping above a desk or dresser, then add more tiles as your needs evolve.
Inspired by Architectural Materials
The design process began with materials and details I’ve always been drawn to through my work in architecture and landscape design.
Some of the patterns were inspired by handmade clay tiles—the slight variation, repetition, and shadows that make a simple surface feel rich and tactile. Others reference classic wall paneling, reinterpreted in a softer and more contemporary material.
I wanted the tiles to sit somewhere between a functional household object and an architectural wall finish.
The felt brings warmth and acoustic softness, while the repeated patterns give the wall structure. Depending on the color and arrangement, the panels can feel playful in a child’s room, calm in a home office, or more refined in a living space.
From Sketches to Prototypes
The collection started, as many of our products do, with sketches.
I explored different proportions, raised details, patterns, and arrangements—thinking about how each individual tile would look on its own and how multiple tiles would connect across a larger wall.
From there, we moved into prototypes, testing the thickness, texture, colors, and installation process. There were many small adjustments along the way to make sure the tiles felt substantial but not heavy, decorative but still practical.
Recently, we photographed the first collection. Seeing the sketches, samples, and early ideas finally come together during the photoshoot was one of those rewarding behind-the-scenes moments that makes the long development process feel real.
Installing the Tiles in My Son’s Room
I also installed a set of the tiles in my son’s room, which felt like the most natural place to test them.
The installation was simple and didn’t require a major room transformation. Once the tiles were in place, we began adding some of his drawings and favorite creations.
What I loved most was that the wall immediately felt more organized, but it also felt more personal. His artwork became part of the room rather than something temporarily taped to a wall or stacked in a pile.
As new drawings come home, we can easily rotate what is displayed. Older pieces can be stored, new favorites can take their place, and the arrangement can continue changing with him.
That flexibility was one of the most important parts of the design.
A Wall That Can Evolve With Your Home
These felt wall panels were created for children’s artwork, but they are designed to do much more.
They can become a mood board in a creative workspace, a pinboard near an entryway, a soft decorative feature above a desk, or a flexible display wall for photographs and inspiration.
Most of all, they reflect what we continue to explore at Zora Botanica: practical solutions for real homes that don’t have to be hidden away.
We’re excited to share more of the patterns, colors, installation ideas, and behind-the-scenes details as we prepare to introduce the collection.
