Should Acoustic Pods Be Soundproof? Why AgileAcoustics Says: Not Always

Date 08.08.2025 Author: Stuart Jones

When it comes to designing quiet spaces within busy, open-plan offices, the word “soundproof” often comes up as the ultimate goal. But at AgileAcoustics, we believe that when it comes to acoustic pods and meeting booths, fully soundproof is not always better.

Here’s why.

Safety Comes First

A completely soundproof pod may offer total auditory isolation — but that comes with serious risks. Most notably, users inside these sealed environments may not hear essential building alerts such as a fire alarm. In safety-critical situations, this can be a dangerous oversight.

Our AgilePods are designed with acoustic performance in mind, but not at the expense of occupant safety. They significantly reduce distractions and external noise without fully sealing users off from important ambient sounds that matter.

Fresh Air Matters

Soundproof pods are typically built as tightly enclosed boxes. While that helps reduce noise, it can compromise airflow. Without adequate ventilation, these sealed environments often lead to a rapid build-up of CO₂ levels — particularly during longer meetings or periods of use.

At AgileAcoustics, we prioritise health and wellbeing. That’s why our pods are built to encourage natural air circulation, and can be fitted with optional ventilation and CO₂ monitoring systems. These additions help maintain comfort, alertness, and cognitive performance — all of which are vital in any work environment.

It’s About the Right Kind of Quiet

We absolutely understand the importance of privacy, focus, and confidentiality — especially in corporate, public sector, and educational settings. But acoustic comfort doesn’t have to mean complete silence. Our pods use advanced wall structures with built-in air gaps to absorb and reduce noise to a level that supports private conversations while still allowing critical sounds to pass through when needed.

This balanced approach helps avoid the discomfort and risk that often comes with sealed, soundproof booths.

What Matters Most

When choosing an acoustic pod or meeting booth, consider the full picture:

  • Acoustic performance that supports privacy

  • Airflow and ventilation for user wellbeing

  • Safety through ambient sound awareness

  • A calm, comfortable environment that boosts focus — without cutting off the outside world entirely

At AgileAcoustics, we design our pods with people in mind. That means going beyond just “soundproof” — and instead creating acoustic solutions that are safer, healthier, and smarter.

See Our Work in Action

Want to see how our approach performs in real environments? Explore our client case studies to discover how organisations across the UK are using AgileAcoustics solutions to reduce noise, improve focus, and support wellbeing. Or reach out to our sales team to start a conversation — we’d love to help you create a quieter, safer, and more agile workspace.

We offer a wide range of acoustic furniture, including meeting booths, office pods, and privacy screens — all designed with adaptability, accessibility, and real-world performance in mind.