The role of acoustics in creating attractive workplaces

The office and our working conditions have changed significantly in recent years, shaped by economic cycles, technological developments, global events, and new ways of working. What remains unchanged, however, is our need for an environment that supports the task at hand. In this context, acoustics plays a crucial role.

Despite the growing body of evidence linking acoustics to wellbeing and performance, the sound environment is still frequently overlooked when offices are designed or renovated. It is not uncommon to hear arguments that sound absorbers are unnecessary, that a lively environment is part of the workplace culture, that employees are not particularly sensitive to noise, or that acoustic improvements can be addressed later.

Yet many people experience the opposite: frustration with an overly noisy environment that makes it difficult to concentrate, perform, and feel well at work.

Noise is one of the biggest workplace challenges

Sound is a constant part of everyday life and influences us in ways that are not always immediately noticeable. Occupational health research consistently identifies noise as one of the most common sources of dissatisfaction in the workplace, particularly in open-plan offices where conversations and background sounds can spread freely¹.

Most people are familiar with distractions such as colleagues’ conversations, ringing phones, printers, and footsteps. These sound sources can interrupt concentration and reduce productivity. However, less obvious forms of noise can also affect our ability to work effectively.

The impact of low-frequency noise

Low-frequency noise is commonly generated by sources such as ventilation systems, building services, and road traffic. It is generally defined as sound within the frequency range of approximately 20–200 Hz.

Although traffic and office noise contain a mix of frequencies, low-frequency components can be particularly challenging because they are difficult to ignore and may remain noticeable even at relatively low sound levels. Research from Chalmers University of Technology² has shown that traffic noise at levels as low as 40 dB can negatively affect performance in concentration-based tasks.

Acoustics, stress, and wellbeing

Research has also demonstrated a clear relationship between unwanted sound and stress. Studies conducted in simulated office environments have shown that noise exposure can increase physiological stress responses, including elevated heart rate and skin conductance, while reducing overall wellbeing³.

Numerous studies have found that noise in open-plan offices can contribute to higher levels of fatigue, reduced memory performance, and lower productivity. In other words, the acoustic environment influences not only how people work, but also how they feel at work.

Acoustics as part of a socially sustainable workplace

A well-designed sound environment is an important aspect of workplace quality and social sustainability. It helps create inclusive environments that support people with different needs, tasks, and working styles.

Extensive research highlights the negative consequences of poor acoustics, but it also demonstrates the benefits of well-designed acoustic environments. While productivity is often discussed in terms of output, quality of work is equally important. Providing employees with acoustic conditions that support concentration, communication, and recovery is therefore essential for long-term workplace performance.

Creating a better sound environment

There is no single solution for achieving good acoustics. Effective workplace design typically combines several complementary measures.

Sound-absorbing materials form a fundamental part of this approach. Ceiling absorbers should be complemented by wall absorbers to reduce reflected sound and improve overall acoustic comfort. At the same time, organisations need to understand how different activities take place within the workspace and design environments that support those needs.

Providing quiet areas for focused work, creating dedicated zones for collaboration and conversation, and limiting the spread of sound are all important considerations, particularly in open-plan offices.

Studies show that a combination of sound-absorbing materials, well-planned zoning, and reduced sound propagation contributes significantly to workplace effectiveness, enabling focused work and collaboration to coexist successfully⁴.

Designing offices around people’s needs

Whether planning a new office, a tenant adaptation, or a renovation project, acoustic performance should be considered from the outset. By understanding organisational needs and making informed choices regarding materials, layout, and workplace design, organisations can create environments that support performance, efficiency, and wellbeing.

A good sound environment helps create the conditions for employees to focus, collaborate, and thrive. Ultimately, workplaces that support people’s needs are more likely to attract employees and encourage them to spend time in the office. The right sound environment therefore plays an important role in creating an attractive workplace.

References:
1. Jahncke, H., Hygge, S., Halin, N., Green, A. M., & Dimberg, K. (2011). Open-plan office noise: Cognitive performance and restoration. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 31(4), 373-382.
2. Chalmers University of Technology. (2023, May 22). Even weak traffic noise has a negative impact on work performance
3. Sander, E. J., Marques, C., Birt, J., Stead, M., & Baumann, O. (2021). Open-plan office noise is stressful: Multimodal stress detection in a simulated work environment. Journal of Management & Organization,
4. Seddigh, A., Berntson, E., Jönsson, F., Bodin Danielson, C., & Westerlund, H. (2015). Effect of variation in noise absorption in open-plan office: A field study with a cross-over design. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 44, 34-44.