Acoustic treatment in a modern open-plan office

Project Overview

In an open-plan office with a strong focus on design, DECIBEL was invited to improve the acoustic environment without compromising the aesthetics of the space. The objective was clear: to create individual work zones that supported concentration and reduced acoustic distractions, all while respecting the visual language of the interior.

Challenge

Open spaces often look beautiful—but they rarely sound that way. In this case, reverberation and voice overlap were making it difficult for employees to focus. The client needed an acoustic solution that would specifically target the human voice frequency range, integrate seamlessly into a modern office design, and elevate the overall work environment.

Scope of Work

DECIBEL delivered a dual-product solution, consulting on layout and product selection, and supplying and installing custom-coloured acoustic treatments. The approach targeted both the shared spatial dynamics above and the individual focus zones below, ensuring full-spectrum sound control in an active workplace.

Solution

Two acoustic systems were combined to optimise performance:

• Echo Cloud Baffles were suspended above workstations, absorbing sound from overhead sources. Made from open-cell polyurethane, they were tuned for peak performance between 400–650 Hz—the frequency band most associated with human speech. Their strategic positioning helped reduce ambient noise and soften voice reflections throughout the space.

• Acoustic Desk Screens were installed at each workstation to create “acoustic shadows”—zones of reduced sound energy that allow for greater focus. These screens also served as visual separators, subtly enhancing employee privacy. The screens were customised in colour and shape to complement the interior design, blending function with form.

Result

The reverberation time across the office significantly decreased, making speech clearer and reducing cognitive fatigue. Employees experienced a marked improvement in their ability to concentrate. The combined use of overhead and desk-level acoustic treatments created a workspace that was both acoustically efficient and visually cohesive—an environment where productivity and aesthetics coexist.

Open spaces hide problems...

As more companies embrace open-space layouts, the need for intelligent, layered acoustic design is becoming essential. Echo and speech interference can quietly sabotage productivity. By targeting specific frequency ranges and integrating acoustic features into the visual design language of a space, DECIBEL delivers not just sound control—but an elevated workplace experience.