We highlighted recently how glass partitioning can improve the flow and use of natural light in your office – but what about the effect of sound and acoustics?
An acoustically sound workspace isn’t a given – it depends on multiple factors such as layout, building materials, workforce numbers and movement of staff.
But there are ways to ensure certain spaces in your office perform well acoustically, including the simple steps outlined below.
Don’t abandon open plan
Whether noise in an office is due to staff talking, electrical equipment or external sources, lessening its impact needn’t mean building walls.
Even in an open-plan environment, where workers are moving and talking freely throughout, the smart use of screening or glass partitions can make a big difference.
By applying this rather than looking to build walls, you can retain the collaborative atmosphere while still increasing privacy and reducing noise.
And by designating certain areas as low noise or silent working, the need for specifically separated spaces will be lessened.
Soak up the sound
To further absorb ambient sound rather than reflect it, affordable multi-purpose solutions can be specified, such as softer furnishings in breakout areas.
Carpeting, wall coverings and even window blinds or curtains can contribute too, offering dampening qualities alongside their aesthetic appeal.
Even plants and greenery selection can have an impact on acoustics, beyond the oxygenation benefits they bring to the office.
When separate makes sense
Although we highlighted that separate offices may not be the best solution for collaboration or inclusion – standalone rooms may be necessary in some cases.
For example, at break times when people may be eating, drinking, talking, using phones and so on – a dedicated area away from the main office could help.
If budget or space doesn’t allow for a permanent meeting room to accommodate multiple people, folding screens can at least reduce noise and increase privacy.
And for noisy office equipment, such as high-volume printers, a separate room that reduces impact on the general working space is advisable where possible.
Interested in improving your office acoustics?
By helping businesses in Sheffield and throughout Yorkshire improve their office acoustics, we’ve helped boost productivity and worker wellbeing in the region.
From glass partitioning wall systems to folding wall systems, affordable measures can be applied in any office to improve the balance of noise.
If you’ve any questions about how we could enhance the acoustic performance of your workplace, please speak to a member of our helpful team.