When we think of a well-designed workplace, visual elements like sleek furniture, open layouts, and purposeful colour selections often come to mind. However, one of the most crucial elements of workplace design is something that is often invisible: acoustics.
Time and again, studies and employee feedback identify noise as a significant concern, ranking it among one of the least satisfactory aspects of the workplace. Yet, it continues to remain overlooked in many office design projects.
Spaceful’s workplace strategy studies have consistently identified noise as one of the most frequently cited issues in office environments, a finding that aligns with recent research highlighting a strong correlation between workplace noise levels and reported productivity – Source. It’s clear: a well-designed workplace environment that thoughtfully considers acoustics is not just nice to have – it is essential to optimise productivity and employee engagement.
Why are acoustics overlooked?
Acoustics often fall through the cracks during the design and construction phases of new workplaces. Even when workplace strategy indicates the importance of noise management, it tends to be one of the first elements to be reduced in budget cuts. The reasoning is simple: unlike visible elements, such as furniture or a colorful wall, acoustics are not immediately visible. However, the absence of something can potentially harm your business even more! Poor acoustics can lead to distractions, increased stress levels, and decreased productivity, making it a tangible issue for workers once the space is occupied.
Visualising the invisible
How does Spaceful address this challenge? We make it a priority to visualise the invisible. By incorporating acoustic considerations early in the design process, we ensure that sound management is integrated into the visual elements of the design from the beginning, so that no compromises need to be made and there are no budget blowouts. Spaceful’s integrated project delivery method supports this commitment.
We continuously explore various acoustic solutions and sound experiences and tailor our approach to different types of noise. Within a workplace, we strategically section it into zones based on noise levels and activities. By visualising how each area will function acoustically, we can present clear, tangible options to clients, allowing them to understand the impact of different acoustic solutions on the overall workplace experience.
The latest acoustic innovation: Biophilic soundscaping
Creating a more acoustically balanced workplace involves more than merely adding in a few sound-absorbing panels. It requires innovative solutions tailored to the unique needs of the space and its users. One of the latest and most innovative trends in acoustic solutions for the workplace is biophilic soundscaping.
This approach uses natural sounds—like running water, rustling leaves, or birdsong—to create a soothing auditory environment, blending nature’s rhythms into the workspace. The goal of biophilic soundscaping is to reduce stress and improve focus by mimicking the calming effects of being in nature, which helps mask disruptive noises while enhancing well-being.
In addition to sound, biophilic soundscaping often integrates visual and sensory elements, like plants and water features, creating a more immersive experience that aligns with the growing interest in holistic, human-centric office designs. This innovation taps into the human connection to nature, offering a more engaging way to manage acoustics while simultaneously supporting mental health and productivity.
This technique is particularly appealing in open-plan offices where it can subtly create a balanced sound environment without adding artificial noise, blending aesthetics with functionality.
A thoughtfully designed acoustic plan can transform a good workplace into a great one, making it a place where employees feel comfortable, focused, and motivated. This approach underscores our motto: before designing the ‘what’ it is crucial to understand ‘how’ you work best as an organisation. By aligning acoustic solutions with the specific work activities that are important to your business, Spaceful ensures that your workplace not only looks good but also functions optimally for your team.
