Creating a Quieter Workspace: How to Manage Noise in the Office
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Offices, especially those with an open plan layout, are an excellent centre for collaboration and socialisation with colleagues. However, despite the community they foster, excessive office noise can often cause distractions and reduce focus company-wide. Office designs have changed hugely over time; today’s offices look different compared to the offices of even ten years ago. As workplaces evolve, the need for quieter spaces becomes increasingly important. Read on for our top tips on managing noise in the workplace.
Soundproofing
An impactful way to control the noise in your office space is to install soundproofing to absorb and reduce sound. Soundproofing can take the form of installing soundproof carpets, soundproof wall panels, and acoustic ceiling tiles. If you are restricted financially, acoustic ceiling tiles should be your priority to receive the maximum return on your investment. Acoustic ceiling tiles are excellent at enhancing employee privacy and reducing noise build up in office spaces, creating a less distracting and more pleasant and comfortable atmosphere.
Office Layout
To control the noise levels for employees in the office environment, office layout will be key. Placing desks strategically away from high-traffic areas such as break rooms, kitchens, and water coolers will ensure the conversations and foot traffic from these areas of the office don’t cause a distraction to those working at their desk. Consider grouping employees collaborating on long-term projects in the same area of the office to cut down on noise projection across the office and allow for effective communication. Ultimately, creating distinct zones within the office for different activities, such as quiet work, collaboration, and relaxation will not only reduce noise but also enhance workflow and employee satisfaction, leading to a more harmonious work environment.
Windows and Curtains
Just as much as the inside of an office can be a noisy environment, so can the great outdoors. Especially if your offices are located in a busy industrial estate or city centre, investing in quality, insulated windows and thick curtains will do wonders for cutting out noise from passing cars, noisy pedestrians, works vehicles, and more. However, whilst keeping the windows closed and the curtains drawn will help to reduce noise in the office, this may lead to a dark and humid office environment. To get around this, it may be necessary to invest in quality lighting and air conditioning to ensure the office atmosphere remains comfortable and a productive space to work from.
Quiet Hours
One of the main benefits of working from the office is to encourage employees to socialise and collaborate; this creates stronger professional bonds between colleagues which directly improves productivity levels within teams. For this reason, putting formal requirements on employees’ talking habits is counterproductive. Instead, consider dedicating just an hour in the morning and an hour in the afternoon to quiet working whereby all employees are required to work independently, with headphones in if they prefer. This will create a work environment that encourages collaboration but that still makes designated time for quiet, focused work.
Hybrid Working
Hybrid working can significantly reduce noise in the office by allowing employees to split their time between home and the workplace. On days when team members work remotely, the overall foot traffic and activity in the office decrease, resulting in a quieter environment. Additionally, by enabling employees to select their days working in the office, they can choose to come in on days when fewer colleagues are present, further minimizing distractions and noise levels.
