Managing Workplace Acoustics

Open plan offices can increase collaboration and reduce real estate costs, but they also pose acoustic challenges. Workplace noise is more than just a nuisance–it can affect the health, happiness and productivity of employees which, in turn, can have a significant impact on a company’s performance.

To create a comfortable acoustic environment, experts recommend the ABC strategy: Absorb, Block and Cover. Incorporate sound-muffling materials such as ceiling baffles, drapery and screen dividers into a space; prevent noise from entering quiet work areas by physically separating them from sources such as copy machines
and reception desks. Finally, use pink noise (white noise’s smoother cousin) to mask unwanted sound.

Knoll offers sound-absorbing products that can help. FilzFelt, a high-quality, eco-friendly product made of 100% wool felt used extensively at Vitaeris, can be used for wallcoverings, hanging panels and more. Other options include acoustic Spinneybeck leather floor tiles, cork wall surfaces and flexible wood wall tiles and panels as well as KnollTextiles acoustic drapery fabrics.