You have your new office space designed and laid out beautifully. Clients love the airy feel as they step into your environment – the décor is picture-perfect, and the natural light is an added bonus – but you can hear everyone all the time! Is there a way to fix noise distraction without losing your design elements and the casual, yet efficient feeling of the office space? There is, and you don’t have to sacrifice anything. Let’s explore the benefits and options of implementing an open office white noise system.
“Cover-up” Noise with Sound Masking
Introducing background noise to the open office layout. Seems counterproductive right? I assure you, it’s not. With the introduction of white noise, less conversational noise is carried, making it become inaudible. Workers are less likely to be paying attention to conversations they can’t understand, in turn, getting more work done and staying on task. Sound masking works in the same way that adding fragrance covers up an odor.
Sound Absorbing Materials
When building and designing your office white noise system be sure to include sound-absorbing materials. These materials are designed to absorb sound waves instead of deflecting them. Products that you can incorporate into the construction of your office are acoustic fiberglass, acoustic foam, acoustic partitions, acoustic cotton, hanging baffles, and other specialty foams. You might have noticed a trend… acoustic products specifically designed for quiet areas. These materials won’t compromise design, just enhance productivity levels in the office.
Natural Sound Absorbers Are Great for Open Offices
If your company is wanting to embrace natural sound absorption options, consider plants. We all know highways lined with trees help to absorb sound for surrounding buildings and neighborhoods – the same concept will work indoors. Plants absorb sound and provide health benefits with cleaner, fresher air.
Consider a Quiet Zone in Your Open Office White Noise System
If your office space is an open concept layout, it may be difficult for individuals to concentrate and limit the distractions around them. Have the best of both worlds, a quiet space. An unused conference room can double as a quiet zone – this is ideal for one person or a small group working together to utilize, so there are fewer distractions. Open office spaces are often louder in general, causing more disruptions.
Reduce Distractions with Break Rooms
If your office allows for it with space, have a group meeting area. This can be a common place, far enough away from working individuals, as to not disturb them. A lunchroom, or break area for individuals to unwind, relax, and chat works flawlessly. You can also use the lunch/break room as a group project area where team members are able to freely bounce ideas off one another and play media.
With all these options, there is one, or a combination of them, to fit the needs of your company, and we are here to help build your dream open office white noise system. Call us today to get your free, no-obligation, custom evaluation.
