Acoustics in Open-Plan Offices: Better Connecting Concentration and Communication

Open-plan offices can facilitate collaboration, but often lead to acoustic disturbances. Conversations, phone calls, foot traffic, and video calls quickly overlap. Good acoustic planning helps better connect concentration and communication.

Typical Problems in Open-Plan Offices

• too many conversations in one area
• lack of retreat areas for phone calls
• insufficient zoning
• hard surfaces and reverberation
• workstations directly in walkways

Suitable Measures

A combination of acoustic panels, partitions, carpet, furniture, retreat areas, and clear usage zones is usually effective. Not every area needs the same solution.

Plan for Retreat Areas

Phone booths or small meeting areas relieve open spaces. Employees get places for conversations without constantly disturbing others.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common cause of noise in open-plan offices?

Mostly overlapping conversations and phone calls in the same area, often amplified by hard, sound-reflecting surfaces.

Is zoning sufficient without additional acoustic measures?

Rarely, for noticeable improvement, additional absorption surfaces such as acoustic panels or carpet are usually needed.

How many retreat areas does an open-plan office need?

That depends on the team size and the number of calls; a brief observation of how often alternative solutions are currently sought can serve as a guide.

Further Wiepa Guides

Phone Booths in the Office: When are they worth it?
Partitions in the Office: More Peace and Structure in Open Work Areas

Conclusion

Open-plan offices require conscious acoustics and spatial structure. Wiepa supports companies with acoustic solutions, office furnishings, and workspace planning.