Noise is one of the biggest productivity killers in the workplace. It can be anything from street traffic to phone calls and talking across an open plan office. Constant noise can make it harder for employees to stay focus and get work done efficiently.
The good news is that there are many ways to soundproof an office. Small changes to the way you set up your space, along with a few smart design choices, can drastically reduce noise levels. Here are some practical ways to soundproof your office environment and improve productivity at the same time.
Seal gaps and entry points
You’d be surprised how much noise sneaks in through the smallest openings in an office.
Standard hollow-core doors do very little to block sound. Solid-core doors make a big difference by adding density and stopping sound from travelling through. To make them even more effective, acoustic seals can be installed around the frame. Additionally, a door sweep at the bottom helps prevent noise from slipping underneath.
Windows are another common culprit when it comes to outside noise. Double-glazed or laminated windows will reduce external sounds significantly.
Improve wall insulation
Once gaps are taken care of, it’s time to think about the walls themselves. Acoustic panels are one of the simplest and most effective soundproofing solutions. These fabric-covered panels don’t just reduce echo; they also add a stylish and modern finish to the office.
In meeting rooms, they help keep discussions private and make video calls clearer. In open areas they soften overall noise levels.
Materials and sound absorption
Hard surfaces like glass or polished concrete reflect sound, which leads to an echo, making conversations seem louder. Adding carpets, rugs and curtains can absorb sound waves.
Noise also tends to travel across ceilings, especially in open layouts. A suspended ceiling with acoustic tiles is an excellent way to reduce this while keeping overall sound levels balanced throughout the space.
For even greater impact, high-quality acoustic partitions or cubicles provide employees with extra privacy.
The materials you choose for walls and ceilings make a huge difference to the way sound behaves in an office. Acoustic baffles or “clouds” suspended from the ceiling don’t just look great, they also absorb sound from multiple angles, making them ideal for offices with higher ceilings.
On the walls, options like felt panels, cork boards, or fabric coverings can reduce sound reflections.
Make smart furniture and layout choices
The way you organise your office can also influence soundproofing. Placing storage units or bookshelves along shared walls adds an extra layer of sound buffering.
Keeping desks away from high-traffic areas like kitchens, printers, and hallways helps reduce interruptions, and avoiding direct face-to-face setups prevents noise from carrying across the room.
If you have an open office, adding a break space can make a big difference. These dedicated spaces allow for collaboration and casual conversations away from quieter working areas. Upholstered couches or booth-style seating not only give employees a comfortable place to meet but also absorb excess sound, keeping the rest of the office calm and focused.
How WA Prestige business fit outs can help
At WA Prestige, we understand the impact noise can have on office productivity and staff wellbeing. That’s why our custom cabinetry and office fit outs are designed with both style and function in mind.
From acoustic wall features to smart storage solutions that double as sound buffers, we’ll help you create a quieter, more productive workspace.
Find out more about our business fit out services by contacting us here 08 9498 1880.