In the busy environment of open plan offices, noise is everywhere and can cause distraction. The constant buzz of conversations, phones ringing, noisy fans, AC units or even water coolers - it can sometimes feel like there’s no escape from noise.
A study into employee reactions to noise revealed that on average, employees fail to pay attention for about an hour and a half each day because of disruptive noises. That’s quite a substantial part of the working day and definitely impacts productivity.
The solution - office acoustics. These systems are a magical blend of scientific expertise and practical engineering to create better sound environments in workplaces. It can transform areas of chaotic workspaces into calm and efficient escapes.
When investing in office acoustics, the goal is not just to cut down the noise level. But it is also about creating an environment where team members can focus and perform without noise distractions.
So, how do you get started? Here are 5 ways to incorporate office acoustics into your workspace:
One of the most effective ways to manage noise in an office is by investing in sound-absorbing materials. Acoustic panels, carpets, ceiling tiles and even art - all can help reduce the amount of sound that bounces around an office. They can also look great in a modern office setting. These materials absorb sound waves hence create a quieter environment where employees can focus on work.
An office and no noise - impossible! But, the high noise levels can be adjusted. This is where acoustic zoning comes into play. Dividing the office into different zones based on noise levels allows everyone to have the space they need to work effectively.
An office can have strategically designed quiet zones for focused work or one-on-one conversations/meetings. And, the same office space can have other areas for collaboration, communication and brainstorming sessions. This way, noisy activities don’t interfere with those who need peace or quiet to get their work done.
Sometimes, the best way to deal with noise is to cover it up. Sound masking is a cool solution that adds soft background noise to a space to cover up distracting sounds.
These systems hide annoying noises and make spaces feel more private. It makes conversations and other noises less noticeable and creates a more peaceful atmosphere. Sound masking systems are an amazing solution for maintaining a professional office environment where there are no visual clues as to why noise isn’t a problem.
The furniture and layout of an office also influence acoustics. High-backed chairs, partitions and even strategically placed plants can be sound barriers. They can help reduce noise transmission, which is especially important in open-plan offices. Carefully positioned furniture can break up sound paths and create quieter zones. You can also consider phone booths or sound proof pods for calls and quiet spaces to work. This is one of many reasons that workplace strategy is so important. Finding out what your teams actually need versus what you think they want.
The final element to consider is your employees. Yes, educating a team about the impact of noise and encouraging good acoustic practices is also a strategic move. Simple actions, like using headphones for calls, not holding loud personal conversations close to team members making client calls and generally being mindful of noise levels in shared spaces, can contribute to an overall quieter office environment.
Creating quiet spaces is essential in a noisy working environment.
Every office is unique and the acoustic solution that fits in one office may not work for another. That’s why it’s important to consult with an experienced interior office fit-out contractor who understands the real impact of acoustics on a project.
At Contractors Direct, we connect businesses with office fit-out companies in the UAE.
We have a robust algorithm that suggests only prequalified fit-out contractors who can help you achieve the perfect acoustic balance for your office. If you are looking to transform your office into a productive space with the help of fit-out professionals who have experience in providing the appropriate interior office acoustics solutions in the UAE. Visit us today.
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