Solutions for Noise in a Crowded Office Space
Many businesses are searching for ways to improve efficiency, space management, and collaborative working styles. Because of this, office spaces with open floor plans have become increasingly popular. While this type of floor plan can be helpful in some ways, it increases the likelihood of office noise.
In some cases, the distracting noise from a crowded office space can offset the potential benefits. Below, we will examine several common solutions for decreasing noise in a crowded office space.
Removing CPU Hardware from Desks
Many offices still store CPU hardware on the desks of employees. This not only decreases employees’ available working space, but also increases office noise.
CPU boxes may contain hardware that makes sounds, as well as fans to keep the internal components cool. A simple solution to this problem is to store computer hardware below the desks of employees.
In fact, some modern office desks are designed to store computer hardware below the desk’s surface. This will increase the available desk space and make the office space quieter.
Install Plants
While most people do not realize it, plants can help to absorb the sounds from conversations and other office noises. Additionally, environments with plants and other natural features have been proven to positively affect people’s moods and support psychological health.
Encourage employees to decorate their desks with their favorite plants. Some offices even install a “living wall,” which is covered with vines and other plant life. Plants are a great option for decreasing unwanted office noise.
Install Panel Dividers
Installing panel dividers in an office can help to maintain the advantages of an open floor plan without allowing noise levels to get out of control. Panel dividers can be used to create different zones in an office. Some examples include:
- Quiet zones for work that requires concentration
- Meeting areas for lively discussions and problem solving
- Breakout areas for socializing or collaboration
- IT zones to house stand-alone units and noisy equipment
Installing partitions can help to contain necessary office noise to designated areas. This allows individual employees to maintain their focus.
High Quality Office Furniture and Accessories
Beyond absorbing and containing office sounds, another way to decrease office noise is to invest in high quality office furniture. For instance, old and cheaply made desk chairs may creak or pop when they move.
Investing in first-rate office chairs can help to decrease the ambient noise of a functioning office space. The same is true for a range of office furniture and accessories. Any accessory or piece of furniture with moving parts is a potential source of office noise.
When working in a crowded office space, decreasing unwanted office noise can improve productivity, collaboration, and efficiency.