Office Noise Reduction: Acoustic Panels for Open Workspaces

Open offices are loud because of hard surfaces. Here is where to add acoustic panels for real noise reduction.

Why Open Offices Sound Bad

Glass, concrete, and open ceilings reflect sound, so speech travels far and concentration drops. The fix is coverage, not one magic tile. Target 30-50% of ceiling and upper wall area with PET acoustic panels.

Ceiling Clouds

Hanging panels above desks catches the longest path of reverberation. Use 600x600mm or 1200x600mm clouds in a grid. They also look modern in a printed finish.

Desk and Meeting Pods

Freestanding screens around focus desks and small meeting rooms cut direct speech path. Pair with wall panels behind seats.

Wall Strategy

Opposite walls: full-height absorbers
Behind screens / VC rooms: dense panels
Breakout areas: slat panels for warmth

Measure the Win

Before and after, walk the floor at busy hour. If you still hear distant conversations clearly, add ceiling coverage before more walls.

Specifying a fit-out? Our factory supplies project pricing and fire-rated panels for commercial tenders.