The change to working from home (WFH) and hybrid work has had a huge impact on businesses. Many have had a big struggle trying to get people to return to the office. In fact, stats say 80% of employers have actually lost employees. The situation shines a light on serious issues with many offices; they are too noisy and people would rather work at home. So, how can a business overcome the issue? We want to have a closer look here to explore tactics for noise reduction. Then, if you want to work with an architect in London, you can trust us.
A serious issue
One of the big things about WFH is people have been able to choose the ideal atmosphere to do their work. They can ensure there are no distracting noises, improving focus and productivity. Sadly, in an office there can be big problems with noises. Whether it is other people working, infrastructure like HVAC systems or lifts, exterior noise like traffic, or simple conversations, there can be plenty of distractions. In fact, a survey by Oscar Acoustics found 71% of people think their office is too loud.
We know more today about the impact of noise than ever before. Too much exposure can cause serious health problems such as stress, hearing loss, and anxiety. It can disrupt concentration and harm productivity. In the worst cases, it can lead to health conditions that cause work absences.
Noise is an even bigger problem for anyone who is sensitive to sound, including neurodiverse people or dyspraxia sufferers. It can have a serious impact on health and wellbeing. It can actually lead to recruiting trouble and employee retention for businesses. They may miss out on fantastic talent simply because the offices are too noisy.
What to do?
The solution is to ensure offices have better acoustics. This should be a central focus, just as important as lighting and heating. It’s best to discuss it with experts, including acoustic engineers or architects. You can rely on us if you want an architect in London to help you.
Generally, the best thing to do is ensure you have a suitable acoustic strategy for the office. Look at how you can ensure clarity, give people control over noise, and provide zones for different types of work.
Most importantly, you need to ensure each office supports different types of work. Make sure there are quieter spots where people can work free from noise distractions. Then, have other spaces for collaboration and meetings where it can be noisier. Just make sure sound from the latter can’t break-out and influence other areas.
Exploring different solutions is important too. There are a surprising number of acoustic products available today, from panels to sprays. The right materials can have a massive impact. Ideally, choose those that will absorb sound instead of hard substances that will reflect it.
Tackle the acoustics with help from a leading architect in London
Good acoustic design is essential today in every kind of property. It can make the difference between happy inhabitants and uncomfortable people who would rather be somewhere else. It’s a wise idea to think about it early rather than making it an after-thought. Crucially though, always keep in mind you can make properties better acoustically without harming the aesthetics.
If you want to create a fantastic office that employees will love spending time in, or have any other kind of project in mind, you can rely on us. We can design offices to ensure productivity and wellbeing. Even better, we can ensure they say the right things about your business and how you focus on employees. Ultimately, you can enjoy an office that will be future-proof.
So, get in touch today and work with a top architect in London. Our passion and creativity speaks for itself.