Office Partitions Soundproofing for Focused Work

Noise in the office is one of the biggest distractions. It impairs concentration, increases stress levels, and reduces job satisfaction. Effective soundproofing through office partitions is therefore not an option but a necessity for a productive and healthy work atmosphere.

Why soundproofing in the office boosts productivity

Concentrating in a busy office is often difficult. Every phone call, every conversation, and every typing sound can pull you out of your workflow. Studies show that after an interruption by noise, it can take up to 23 minutes to fully return to your task.

This constant struggle for concentration not only costs time and productivity. It also creates a mental burden that promotes stress and reduces job satisfaction.

The problem of constant background noise

Open office concepts promote collaboration but can become a burden without proper soundproofing. The constant chatter forces your brain to continuously filter out unimportant acoustic stimuli. This is exhausting in the long run, causes fatigue, and leads to more errors.

Poor room acoustics is one of the most common reasons for dissatisfaction in the office. Constant noise exposure can trigger headaches and exhaustion and increase the release of stress hormones.

The negative consequences of office noise are clearly documented. Good acoustics is an important building block for a company's economic success and employee well-being. Learn more about the advantages of modern office forms in our article on Open Office Space.

Legal requirements and effective solutions

Protection against noise in the workplace is regulated by law. The Workplace Ordinance specifies clear guidelines. In open-plan offices, the noise level should not exceed 45 dB; in smaller offices, the value is 35 dB. The upper limit is 55 dB. If these values are exceeded, stress and health risks are imminent.

This is where acoustic partitions come into play. Mounted directly at the desk, they effectively absorb sound waves before they spread throughout the room. This helps to comply with the regulations.

Targeted use of soundproofing through office partitions is therefore also a sound business decision. It creates the necessary calm for concentrated work. The advantages are clear:

• Better concentration: Fewer distractions enable deeper and more efficient work.
• Less stress: A quieter environment lowers stress levels and prevents burnout.
• Clearer communication: Acoustically separated zones allow you to make calls or discuss without disturbing colleagues.
• Higher employee satisfaction: A pleasant working environment increases motivation and loyalty to the company.

Investing in a well-thought-out acoustic solution pays off in the long run through increased productivity and healthier employees.

Fundamentals of room acoustics explained simply

To understand how office partitions soundproofing works, you don't need to be an acoustics expert. It's enough to know some basic principles. Room acoustics deals with how sound behaves in a room. That is, how it is reflected, absorbed, or transmitted.

If you understand these basics, you can more effectively ensure quiet in the office. The two most important terms are sound insulation and sound absorption. Although often confused, they describe two different processes. Both are crucial for good acoustics.

Sound insulation versus sound absorption

Sound insulation blocks sound and prevents it from traveling from one room to the next. This requires heavy, dense materials such as concrete, brick, or special soundproof glass. The sound is stopped and reflected back.

Sound absorption converts sound energy into heat, thereby reducing noise. Soft, open-pored materials such as acoustic foam, felt, or special fabrics are suitable for this. The goal is to reduce reverberation and the general noise level within a room.

Imagine it like throwing a ball. A hard wall (insulation) makes the ball bounce off. It doesn't reach the other side. A soft net (absorption) catches the ball. It doesn't bounce back and doesn't cause further disturbance.

For office planning, you usually need a combination of both. Partitions create an acoustic barrier, while absorbers on walls or ceilings reduce the general noise level.

What do decibels and reverberation time mean?

To make noise and room sound measurable, there are two important metrics. They help you objectively evaluate the acoustics of your office.

Decibel (dB) The loudness of a sound is measured in decibels. The scale is logarithmic. This means that an increase of 10 dB sounds like a doubling of loudness to our ears. A normal conversation is about 60 dB. For concentrated work in the office, a maximum of 55 dB is recommended.

Reverberation time Reverberation time describes how long a sound lingers in a room after the sound source has stopped. It is measured in seconds. A long reverberation time makes a room echoey. Conversations become difficult to understand because sounds overlap.

To improve room acoustics, these two values are adjusted:

• Sound insulation lowers the decibel level entering from outside or from neighboring rooms.
• Sound absorption shortens the reverberation time within the room itself and makes it acoustically quieter.

In an open-plan office, a short reverberation time of a maximum of 0.6 seconds is ideal. This dampens the babble of voices. Conversations are only understandable at short distances without spreading throughout the room. With this knowledge, you can better assess the effect of acoustic elements.

Choosing the right partitions and materials

There is no perfect partition for every office. But there is the right solution for your office. Whether you need flexibility, want to reduce noise levels, or optically divide the space, choosing the right partition is crucial.

It's about finding a solution that works acoustically and integrates into everyday work. Before you decide, take a look at the different types.

What types of office partitions are there?

Basically, you have three main types to choose from. Each has its own advantages for different office situations.

• Freestanding partition walls: These all-rounders stand on their own and can be set up flexibly. They are ideal for dividing larger areas or creating a temporary meeting corner. Their effectiveness depends on their height. The higher, the better the sound insulation.

• Mobile partitions on casters: If requirements often change, these walls are ideal. You can effortlessly roll them where they are needed. This is perfect for agile teams or project work.

• Desk-mounted partitions (desk toppers): These helpers are attached directly to the desk surface. They create a personal, shielded workspace. They are very effective in blocking direct sound between two colleagues sitting next to each other.

Desk-mounted solutions are often a good first step, as they address the problem directly at the source. In our guide to soundproofing for desks, we go into more detail.

Which material absorbs which noise?

The heart of every acoustic partition is its material. It determines how well sound waves are absorbed.

A simple principle from acoustics helps here. Soft, porous surfaces absorb sound, while hard, smooth surfaces reflect it. That's why special acoustic partitions are superior to normal room dividers.

Here are the common materials and their properties:

• Acoustic foam: The classic among absorbers. Due to its porous structure, it converts sound energy into heat. It is particularly effective at medium to high frequencies, i.e., against ringing telephones or loud voices.

• Felt and textile coverings: Materials such as thick felt or heavy fabrics are not only acoustically effective but also look good. They primarily absorb frequencies in the speech range and significantly reduce reverberation.

• Glass (as special soundproof glass): Normal glass strongly reflects sound. This is different with soundproof glass. Several layers with a sound-absorbing film in between block sound transmission (sound insulation). However, they hardly absorb sound within a room.

• Wood-based materials with perforation: Perforated or slotted wooden panels with an acoustic fleece behind them are an aesthetic solution. They effectively absorb sound, especially in the medium frequency range, and bring a natural look to the office.

For typical office noise, which mainly consists of conversations, porous materials such as felt, textiles, and acoustic foam are the best choice. They ensure that voices do not spread too far and the general hum of voices is dampened.

Comparison of partition materials for soundproofing

This table compares common materials for acoustic partitions. It shows their sound-absorbing properties and typical applications.

Material	Sound Absorption (NRC Value)	Effective at Frequencies	Ideal for
Acoustic Foam	High (e.g., 0.75 - 0.95)	Medium to high (voices, ringing)	Targeted absorption, e.g., in call centers
Felt & Textile	Medium to high (e.g., 0.50 - 0.80)	Medium (especially speech)	Reducing reverberation, visual enhancement, separation of work areas
Perforated Wood	Medium (e.g., 0.45 - 0.75)	Medium	Aesthetic room design with good sound absorption, e.g., in hallways or lounges
Soundproof Glass	Very low (approx. <0.10)	All (blocks rather than absorbs)	Soundproof separation of entire rooms (insulation), not for reducing reverberation

The choice of material depends on which acoustic problem you want to solve. If you want to reduce reverberation in the room, you need absorbers. If you want to completely shield a room from noise, you need insulating materials such as soundproof glass.

A combination of different partition types and materials is often the key to success. This allows you to respond specifically to different noise sources.

Understanding legal norms and key parameters

Planning an acoustically optimized office is not just about a pleasant feeling. It's also about meeting legal requirements and professional standards. To objectively evaluate office partitions for soundproofing, you need to know the most important parameters and regulations.

These figures are not dry theory. They are your tools to check product promises. This way, you make informed decisions for a quiet, productive work atmosphere.

The two decisive parameters for partitions

To assess the acoustic performance of a partition, two values are central. They describe how well a component blocks or absorbs sound.

1. The sound reduction index (Rw): This value indicates how well a partition prevents sound from traveling from one room to the next. It is measured in decibels (dB). The higher the value, the better the insulation.

2. The sound absorption coefficient (alpha or NRC): This value describes how much sound a surface absorbs instead of reflecting it. The scale ranges from 0 (complete reflection) to 1.0 (complete absorption). The NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) is an average value that refers to the frequency range of human speech. A high NRC value effectively reduces reverberation in the room.

An example: A solid glass wall can have a high Rw value and block noise from outside. At the same time, its NRC value is very low. It reflects sound in the room and creates reverberation. An acoustic partition, however, has a high NRC value and absorbs sound.

German standards and guidelines for offices

In Germany, there are clear regulations that define what good sound insulation in the office means. They serve to protect health and performance.

• Workplace Ordinance (ArbStättV): It requires keeping the noise level at the workplace as low as possible to protect the health of employees.

• DIN 4109 (Sound insulation in building construction): This standard is the technical basis for structural sound insulation. It specifies minimum requirements for sound insulation.

• VDI 2569 (Sound insulation and acoustic design in the office): This guideline provides concrete recommendations for good room acoustics. It provides target values for sound insulation and sound absorption.

While DIN 4109 regulates minimum requirements, VDI 2569 provides practical guidelines for offices. Sound reduction values of Rw 42–47 dB are recommended for fixed partitions. In open areas, acoustic partitions provide local insulation of 25–35 dB. Analyses by the VDI show that excessive noise can reduce productivity by up to 66%. More about the exact requirements can be found in the article on sound insulation in the office on novum-objekteinrichtung.de.

What do the parameters mean in practice?

With this knowledge, you can now correctly interpret product data sheets for office partitions soundproofing.

A manufacturer specifies an NRC value of 0.85 for a mobile partition. This is a very good value. The wall absorbs 85% of the incident sound in the speech-relevant frequency range. It is ideal for dampening conversations in an open-plan office.

For a fixed system partition, a sound reduction index of Rw = 42 dB is specified. This wall is suitable for acoustically separating two offices. A normal conversation at 60 dB will only arrive at a quiet 18 dB on the other side.

When choosing, always pay attention to both values. To improve the acoustics within a room, a high NRC value is crucial. To shield a room, you need a high Rw value.

Strategically placing partitions for maximum effect

Buying a high-quality partition is only the first step. Even the best acoustic element does little if it is in the wrong place. Proper placement in the room is crucial for a noticeably quieter work atmosphere.

The first step is an inventory: Where does the noise come from? Is it loud phone calls, the printer, or the hustle and bustle in the hallway area? Once you know the main sources of disturbance, you can take targeted countermeasures.

Identify sound sources and block sound paths

The most effective way is to absorb the noise as close as possible to its origin. Therefore, position office partitions for soundproofing directly between the noise source and the workstations you want to protect.

Think in terms of sound paths. Sounds not only spread directly but are also reflected by walls, ceilings, and floors. A single partition interrupts the direct sound path, but detours must also be considered.

A basic acoustic principle states: To block direct sound between two workstations, the partition must completely break visual contact. The higher and wider the barrier, the better the shielding.

DGUV Information 215-443 provides clear recommendations here. Acoustic screens should be at least 1.50 m high and flush with the floor and walls. This leaves no gap for sound waves. Well-planned systems can reduce the noise level by 10–20 dB. This makes a big difference, especially in small offices or open-plan offices. More about the guidelines can also be found on raumweltenheiss.de.

Creating acoustic zones for different activities

A modern office has different areas. Different tasks require a different environment. With a clever arrangement of partitions, you can define clear zones:

• Focus zones: Concentration is required here. Place high, highly absorbent partitions around individual workstations to create an acoustic oasis.
• Communication zones: In areas for teamwork or meetings, exchange is desired. Lower partitions that optically divide the area are often sufficient here.
• Quiet zones: An area separated by acoustic panels can serve as a retreat for breaks or informal conversations without disturbing others.

Planning such zones not only improves acoustics. It also gives the office a clear structure. In our article on coworking space design, you will find more ideas for functional room design.

Integration with height-adjustable desks

The combination of partitions with flexible furniture such as Deskspace's height-adjustable desks is very effective. The soundproofing must also work when someone moves their desk to the standing position.

You should pay attention to the following:

• Height of the partition: It must be high enough to reach above head height even for a standing person. A height between 1.60 m and 1.80 m is a good choice.
• Type of fastening: Desk-mounted partitions are most effective. They move up and down with the desk. This ensures that soundproofing is maintained in any position.
• Positioning: Freestanding walls should be placed as close as possible to the desk. This prevents sound from reflecting off the tabletop.

This combination creates a workplace that is not only ergonomic but also acoustically optimal.

Weighing costs and benefits of soundproofing measures

An investment in office partitions and soundproofing is a business decision. The costs must be carefully considered. However, the benefits go far beyond simple noise reduction and often pay off quickly.

A quieter work environment increases concentration, lowers stress levels, and improves team satisfaction. These factors directly affect productivity and absenteeism. Consider the costs as an investment in your team's performance.

Overview of cost factors

Prices for soundproofing measures can vary greatly. It depends on the chosen solution and its scope. To plan your budget, it helps to know the options.

• Desk-mounted partitions are often the most cost-effective entry. They shield individual workstations and are available in the low three-digit range per workstation.
• Freestanding partition walls offer more flexibility but are more expensive. Expect costs between 300 EUR and over 1,000 EUR per element, depending on size and material.
• Fixed system partitions or glass walls are the largest investment. Prices start at around 100 EUR per square meter for simple systems. For high-quality soundproof glass solutions, they can rise to several hundred euros.

Flexible solutions, such as Deskspace partitions, can often make expensive construction measures unnecessary. They adapt to your needs and grow with your company.

The measurable benefits of better acoustics

The benefits of optimized acoustics are measurable. They directly impact key business metrics. High-quality office partitions soundproofing is the key to this.

The DIN 18041 standard recommends a reverberation time of T <= 0.8 s for offices. Effective sound absorbers that absorb up to 100% of sound waves help you meet this requirement. In an open-plan office with a noise level of 55 dB, such measures can create a noticeable calm. The result is a productivity increase of up to 20%. More about the effect of partition systems can also be found in this overview from bos-buero.de.

Calculating Return on Investment (ROI)

To see how quickly the investment pays off, you can calculate the Return on Investment (ROI). Here's a simple example calculation.

Assume an employee's productivity with an annual salary of 60,000 EUR increases by 5% due to better acoustics. This corresponds to an annual added value of 3,000 EUR per employee.

For a team of 10 employees, this results in a productivity gain of 30,000 EUR per year. A one-time investment of 5,000 EUR in mobile partitions would have paid for itself in this scenario after just two months.

This calculation does not take into account positive effects such as lower healthcare costs or higher employee retention. A well-thought-out acoustic solution is therefore an investment that pays off quickly and sustainably.

Frequently asked questions about office partitions

The same questions always arise regarding soundproofing in the office. We have collected the most important ones for you and answer them here.

How high should a sound-absorbing partition be?

For a partition to effectively interrupt sound, it should reach at least head height for a seated person. A height of 1.50 m or more is ideal.

This prevents conversations from spreading from one desk to the next. A higher partition creates a better acoustic barrier and ensures more quiet and concentration at the workplace.

What is the difference between sound absorption and sound insulation?

The two terms are often confused but describe two different acoustic principles. Knowing the difference is crucial for choosing the right product.

• Sound absorption: This is about reducing reverberation within a room. Porous materials like felt or acoustic foam "swallow" the sound. They convert the energy into heat.

• Sound insulation: The goal is to block sound transmission between two rooms. This requires heavy, dense materials such as concrete or special soundproof glass.

For acoustics in an open-plan office, absorbent partitions are particularly important. To shield a meeting room, insulating walls are the right choice.

Most office partitions soundproofing are designed for absorption. They improve acoustics in the room by lowering the general noise level and limiting speech intelligibility at short distances.

Are partitions alone sufficient for good soundproofing?

Acoustic partitions are an effective component for reducing noise pollution in the office. However, they only unleash their full effect as part of an overall concept.

To achieve optimal results, you should combine partitions with other sound-absorbing elements. These include, for example:

• Acoustic ceiling panels or ceiling baffles: They absorb sound before it is reflected from the ceiling.
• Carpets: They reduce impact sound and dampen the general noise level.
• Wall absorbers or acoustic pictures: These elements prevent sound reflections from hard walls.

If you cleverly combine these elements, you create an all-around pleasant and productive work atmosphere.

---

Are you ready to improve the acoustics in your office and ensure more concentration? Deskspace solutions can be ideally combined with our ergonomic workstations. Discover the right products for your office now at https://deskspace.de.