Does your new workspace seem as though everything is louder? This could be as result of hard surfaces that reflect sound. When this happens, there’s more echoing, people can be easily distracted and can even result in poor communication. These noise issues can also be exasperated if your workspace is open plan or follows the larger studio design.
If you’re not keen on changing the overall design of your workspace by incorporating individual offices, you could consider using a temporary wall or two to break up the space. To break up the noise even further, you might want to opt for acoustic wall partitions or panels. What are these and how do they work? This post explores this concept.
What are Acoustic Wall Partitions?
Essentially, acoustic wall partitions (also called panels) are physical room dividers that are usually made with sound-absorbing materials. This can include laminated glass or polyester which have been designed to improve sound quality, and the same time reduce noise.
For the glass panels, a core of modern, sound-dampening laminate (PVB) is added to the glass and disrupts surrounding sound waves. Due to their sound reducing features, acoustic walls are commonly used in schools, healthcare facilities, open plan work spaces, and even homes.
In addition to offering acoustic control, these panels can also be used to create visual separation without the hassle and expenses associated with permanent construction. This means that you can easily turn an open plan studio space into a functional work space with induvial work cubicles or make shift offices. This is an ideal option if you’re renting a space, and you can’t make permanent changes to the building.
Many Advantages to Consider
There are many plus points to opting for acoustic wall partitions. Our experts have compiled a list of the most significant ones that will show you how these panels can benefit your work space.
1. Minimises Sound Reverberation and Echo
In wide, open rooms, even the most minor sounds can bounce off ceilings and walls. This, in turn, creates reverberation which can make it difficult to understand what people around you are trying to say. Fortunately, acoustic walls have been designed to absorb these sound reflections.
This may sound as though the echo in the space is being reduced. You and your staff will be able to hear each other and your guests or customers more clearly. This will instantly make your communication more professional.
2. Can Enhance Comfort in the Workspace
While you may be used to, and even comfortable, in your open plan workspace, your customers or guests that aren’t there all day may find the experience a little intimidating. This is especially the case if your customer is sitting in the middle of your noisy workspace with people everywhere.
Using the acoustic wall partitions to control the sound in your space helps to create a more relaxed and comfortable space. Since the panels can be used to create mini offices, your customers will also feel more private when doing business in your space. Keep in mind that echo-filled environments can be stressful which may not be conducive to your salespeople trying to finalise contracts.
3. Can Boost Staff Productivity
No matter what business you’re in, you will always be on the lookout for ways to boost staff productivity. If this is the case, you need to keep in mind that noise is one of the largest distractions in any work space. This can hamper productivity.
Opting for sound absorption via your acoustic partitions instantly helps to reduce the ambient sounds from conversations, phones, and HVAC systems. This will keep your staff less distracted and more focused on work.
4. Improves Your Workspace Aesthetic
A wide open work space can end up looking cluttered and unprofessional. Since modern acoustic partitions are available in an extensive range of fabrics, finishes, and colours you can easily find the best option for your workspace décor. Choosing stylish acoustic wall options can also double as design features. This helps to improve your overall office aesthetic. You can use the acoustic panels to reduce noise and make your space appear more professional and organised.
5. Can Make Your Building Complaint With Local Building Standards
Adding fixtures and panels to your open plan office space may need to meet certain building standards. This is especially the case for fire code compliance. Fortunately, superior-quality acoustic partitions are fire-rated and low in VOCs. Speak to your local supplier about the quality of the acoustic walls you want to invest in. Confirm that your panels can suit local compliances as well as your unique office needs.
Final Thoughts
There are several very good reasons why you should consider using acoustic walls to eliminate noise in your large or open plan workspace. In addition to absorbing excessive noise, these panels can also be used to break up the space. Creating individual and private work spaces may be better suited to your work flow, especially if customers or business guests are visiting you in the space. Speak to your local supplier for the best solutions for your specific space.
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