Open plan offices are a great way to improve collaboration and communication between staff, but they can have one drawback – noise. While a bustling office can signify a vibrant and high energy work environment, too much noise distracts, reduces productivity, and can even stress the workforce.
For business owners of growing companies, balancing the vibrancy of a lively workspace while maintaining an environment conducive to focus is crucial.
Here are five effective strategies to help you manage noise in your office:
1 Create dedicated spaces for calls and Teams meetings
Noise often peaks during phone calls or teams meetings. By establishing dedicated areas for these activities, you not only reduce the noise pollution in your main workspace but also preserve the confidentiality of discussions. Options include:
- Independent acoustics pods
- High back chairs
- Dedicated ‘Teams’ rooms
Speak to our team if you’d like to discuss acoustic pod or small individual meeting rooms – we can help build the right solution for you.
2 Use plants to dampen noise
Incorporating plants in your office doesn’t just enhance the aesthetics and calm the mood; plants can also be effective in sound absorption. They disrupt sound pathways and help reduce overall noise levels, making your office space quieter.
3 Invest in acoustic materials
Soft, porous materials can significantly absorb sound waves. Integrating acoustic panels or baffles into your office design can dramatically reduce reverberation and keep noise levels in check.
4 Strategic space planning
A thoughtful layout that considers the acoustics can greatly impact the staff experience. Keep noisy areas such as copiers, communal areas, and meeting rooms away from concentrated workstations. A well-planned office layout not only minimises noise but enhances overall operational flow.
5 Consult the experts
Every office is unique, and sometimes the standard solutions might not be enough. Accolade Workspace specialises in custom solutions tailored to your specific needs. Consider booking a site visit; our consultants are adept at identifying problematic areas and recommending precise, effective solutions to enhance your workspace’s functionality and comfort.
Noise in the workplace shouldn’t be the norm. With the right strategies, you can create a balance where productivity thrives, and the environment remains energetic yet peaceful.
At Accolade Workspace, we’re here to help you achieve just that.
Tel: +44(0)1785 228877
Email: sales@accoladeci.com
