Workplace Acoustics FAQs
We hope these FAQs have answered most of your questions about workplace acoustics. If you’ve still got something on your mind, don’t hesitate to get in touch — we’re happy to chat over the phone, on a video call, or even in person over a cuppa!
1. Why is acoustics important in the workplace?
Good workplace acoustics reduce noise distractions, improve concentration, support privacy, and enhance employee wellbeing — especially in open-plan environments.
2. What are the main sources of noise in offices?
Common sources of workplace noise include conversations, phone calls, office equipment like printers, HVAC systems, and outside traffic. In open-plan offices, these sounds can become even more disruptive — especially when hard surfaces cause sound to bounce and linger, increasing reverberation and overall noise levels.
3. What’s the difference between soundproofing and sound absorption?
Soundproofing blocks sound from entering or leaving a space. Sound absorption reduces echo and reverberation within a space to improve acoustic comfort. AgileAcoustics specialise in sound absorption products such as acoustic pods, acoustic wall panels and office privacy screens.
4. How can I reduce noise in an open-plan office?
Use a combination of acoustic solutions:
Wall panels and ceiling baffles to absorb sound, see AgileWALLPANEL
Acoustic furniture and screens to create quiet zones, see Modulise or hilo.work
Soundproof pods or booths for calls and meetings, see AgilePOD
5. Are acoustic panels and furniture effective?
Yes — when designed properly, they make a big difference. High-quality acoustic products (like those from AgileAcoustics) are tested to absorb sound and reduce reverberation. Our wall panels use Class A absorber materials and feature built-in air gaps — a key design detail that enhances performance and sets our products apart in the market.
6. Can acoustic solutions improve employee wellbeing?
Absolutely. Lower noise levels help reduce stress, improve focus, and make the workspace more inclusive — particularly for neurodiverse employees or those with sensory sensitivities. See our blog article about employee wellbeing.
7. Do we need planning permission to install acoustic pods or partitions?
No — most acoustic pods and freestanding partitions are classed as furniture, not fixed structures. They’re ideal for leased offices as they avoid dilapidation costs.
8. Are there acoustic solutions for video calls and hybrid meetings?
Yes. Acoustic pods and screen systems like AgilePOD and hilo.work are designed for modern hybrid work — reducing background noise and improving speech clarity.
9. Can acoustic solutions be customised to our office style?
Absolutely. At AgileAcoustics, every product is made to order, which means we tailor it to your space — not the other way around. Choose from a wide range of finishes, fabrics, and colours to match your brand, interior design, or unique project requirements. No off-the-shelf compromises here.
10. How do I know what acoustic products I need?
We offer acoustic consultations to assess your space and recommend the right mix of solutions based on your layout, team size, and specific noise challenges. And don’t worry — we believe in using just the right amount of treatment. Too many panels or soundproof pods can make a space feel unnaturally quiet, so we always take a balanced, minimal approach.
11. Are acoustic solutions compliant with accessibility standards?
Yes. We design inclusive products like height-adjustable screens and accessible pods that comply with PAS 6463 and the Equality Act 2010.
12. Can acoustic screens or pods be moved if we reconfigure our space?
Yes — our solutions are designed with flexibility in mind. Products like Modulise and AgilePOD are freestanding and modular, making them easy to move, reconfigure, or take with you when you relocate. Plus, our in-house installation team ensures any moves or adjustments are handled with care and precision.
13. How much do acoustic solutions cost?
Costs vary depending on the type, size, and specification of the product. We’ll work with your budget and provide a detailed quote after consultation.
14. Do acoustic products require maintenance?
Minimal maintenance is needed. Our products are built with high-quality materials and easy-to-clean fabrics, with options for antimicrobial finishes.
15. What sectors do you work in?
AgileAcoustics works across the corporate, education, and public sectors — helping clients improve the acoustics of offices, workplaces, teaching environments, and study spaces. Wherever noise is a problem, we offer tailored solutions that enhance focus, privacy, and wellbeing.
16. Is there a difference between soundproof pods, acoustic pods, and meeting booths?
Not really — these terms are often used interchangeably in the industry. Whether they're called soundproof pods, acoustic pods, or meeting booths, they all serve the same purpose: creating quiet, focused spaces for video calls, meetings, collaboration, and individual work — all while supporting productivity and wellbeing.
17. Why should I choose AgileAcoustics over other suppliers?
Great question. At AgileAcoustics, we’re more than just a supplier — we design, manufacture, and install bespoke acoustic solutions that deliver market-leading performance. Our products are built with sustainability and fire safety in mind, and we’ve earned the trust of hundreds of organisations across the UK. If you’re after a partner who can combine technical expertise with creative thinking, we’d love to chat about how we can help boost wellbeing and productivity in your space.
18. Which client projects are you most proud of?
Very good question! We’re proud to work with a wide range of clients across sectors. We do a lot of work with the Met Office in Exeter, installing acoustic pods. Iain at the BBC loves our freestanding acoustic screens. We’ve installed plenty of Pods for both University of Sheffield and University of Leeds. Islington Council now has around ten of our fully automated accessible AgilePOD#10s. We also collaborate closely with several leading furniture dealers to design and make bespoke acoustic products for their clients.
If we had to pick one standout project, it would be a current Modulise installation for a Government Department Police client in London — helping them create flexible, subdivided zones across three large floorplates. Watch this space!