Noisy office environments are something we have all experienced at some point in time. Perhaps you are surrounded by noise regularly and find it close to impossible to focus on the task at hand.
You are not alone. This is a common complaint by employees. The popularity in open office plans do have their benefits yes, however, with so much open office space noise comes along with it.
The increased availability of collaboration provided by open office interiors means more talking with colleagues also. More talking means even less concentration on what you are working on. While some people can multitask, a lot of people can’t, especially not for a serious and pressing task.
We have compiled a list of tips to hopefully help you reduce and tackle noise in your workplace and be more productive as a result.
Dedicated Quiet Spaces
If the noise is becoming too much and you seriously need to get on top of your workload then having a dedicated quiet space you can depart to will make all the difference.
In fact, spaces designed for all out silence have become so popular that one such company is addressing just that. ROOM provides sound proofed office phone booths so employees can get their work done in peace and quiet.
Noise-Cancelling Headphones
If you don’t have the resources to invest in a dedicated quiet space then an alternative is always noise-cancelling headphones. Shut out all the noise with these craftily designed audio devices. Your colleagues may be chattering away but you won’t hear them.
The highest quality noise-cancelling headphones can even make the busiest of offices feel like a library on the quietest of days.
Plants, Glorious Plants
Using biophilic or natural design elements within an office environment is a trend which keeps growing in popularity. There are many benefits to taking a little portion of nature and placing it into your office.
One such benefit of including plants in your open office space is that it reduces noise. Yes, you heard that right, plants boast sound absorbing capabilities. On top of reducing noise, plants improve the aesthetics of your office and the indoor air quality.
Combat The Noise With White Noise
Who would have thought one of the best ways of combatting noise is with more noise. It’s true. White noise or ambient noise drowns out other noises by making you feel at ease and like you belong somewhere.
Other benefits of white noise include increasing creativity, providing a rhythm and combating tiredness. Proven forms of background noise are the sounds of rainfall and waves crashing on the beach.
And there you have it folks. Tune in next month where Axis Office Fit Out will explore 4 extra ways to reduce noise in your office.
For all your office interiors, office refurbishments, office fit outs and much much more choose Axis. For extra tips and tricks call us today on 01 524 0989.