Office acoustic panels
Once the foundation and framing are in place, the only way to truly soundproof a space is by adding an insulative mass in which sound waves are absorbed, canceled/blocked, and unable to travel further. However, most practices for adding insulative mass are considered unattractive.
For example, decoupling walls is a strong option for adding soundproofing mass. This involves separating walls into two sections, and the sound waves are lost in the chasm between them. In most applications, this involves adding an extra layer of drywall or some other type of “false front.” Not only does this cut into interior square footage, but it is not practical for open interiors with many windows. In addition, many types of sound-absorbing foam are bulky, unsightly, and inconvenient, leaving building managers with few interior design options.
To help add soundproofing mass without undermining style, decorative acoustic panels are increasing in popularity in modern commercial buildings.1 Fabricated from a fiberglass core sheathed in decorative fabric, office acoustic panels feature a noise reduction coefficient (NRC) of 0.95, just short of the industry standard (an NRC of one) for complete soundproofing.
In most scenarios, office acoustic panels adhere to the wall and are as subtle as a picture frame, with their decorative quality giving the impression of interior decor and not sound mitigation.
Acoustic ceiling clouds
Modern commercial buildings are notably more open than their cubicle-centric predecessors. This can lead to some challenges regarding echo and unwanted noise transfer in sprawling interiors.
