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How acoustic panels work – and how they improve office acoustics

Modern offices, especially open-plan workspaces, often fail to provide the conditions necessary for focus and productivity. It all comes down to noise.
Phone calls, team conversations, the hum of computers and office equipment, the clatter of keyboards, pulling the chairs, drawers opening and closing, even the air-conditioning system – all combine into a background noise that leads to fatigue. Noise can also come from external sources, such as street traffic, nearby construction, or other parts of the building.
Fortunately, there’s a solution – acoustic panels.

How do acoustic panels work?

Acoustic panels work by absorbing sound waves. When a sound wave hits the cladding surface, part of its energy dissipates, part is reflected, and part is absorbed – and it is the last part that makes the biggest difference.
Acoustic panels improve speech clarity, increase acoustic comfort, and reduce mental fatigue for employees by reducing reverberation and eliminating the echo.

Types of acoustic panels

When it comes to MDF wall cladding, several acoustic panel types are available, each with different properties and purpose:

  • Solid panels – smooth, minimalist wall cladding that’s practical and cost-effective but offers the least improvement in terms of acoustics.
  • Perforated panels – with small holes that significantly reduce reverberation and absorb noise.
  • Micro-perforated panels – working like perforated panels, but with almost invisible holes, delivering excellent acoustic performance without altering the visual design.
  • Milled panels – panels with interesting patterns that combine acoustic benefits with decorative design.
  • Grooved (fluted) panels – with distinctive textures that look impressive while effectively scattering and absorbing the sound.

Naturally, various types of acoustic panels can be finished in a variety of options, offering a broad selection of colours, texture, hardness and other properties.
The surface finishing options include:

  • Melamine – an economical, easy-to-clean coating.
  • CPL – a durable laminate resistant to wear and mechanical damage.
  • HPL – a high-pressure laminate with increased resistance to impact, moisture, chemicals, and UV light.
  • Natural veneer – using natural wood with unique growth rings and premium look.
  • Reconstituted veneer – using natural, but modified wood offering consistent appearance and colour across large installations.

Installation of acoustic panels

Panels are usually mounted using dedicated fixing systems, allowing for fast, secure installation of panels on walls or ceilings. The installation process does not require messy, noisy and time-consuming preparatory work. They can also discreetly conceal uneven surfaces, wiring, and other elements best kept out of sight.

Acoustic panels are perfect for both new office spaces and refurbishment works, where a quick, low-disruption upgrade is needed to improve working conditions.

Acoustic panels – pricing

The price of acoustic panels depends on their finishing and their type. While acoustic panels cost more than paint, textured plaster, or wallpaper, they offer exceptional longevity and minimal maintenance. Depending on the finish, some panels come with warranties of up to 15 years – during which they require no repainting, refinishing, or special upkeep.
Their impact resistance and durability make them a virtually maintenance-free solution with a long service life – translating into convenience and significant cost savings over time.

Office acoustics – the silent ally in service of productivity

Good office acoustics are not just about comfort – they have a direct impact on the mental and physical well-being of employees. Prolonged exposure to even moderate noise levels can lead to chronic stress, poor concentration, irritability, sleep issues and reduced motivation.
Employees in noisy environments tire more quickly, make more mistakes, and take longer to complete tasks.
What is more, research indicated that noise affects blood circulatory system, increases blood pressure and even leads to cardiovascular problems.
Acoustic panels help minimise these risks, creating a calmer, more focused workspace.

Better acoustics also improves phone and video call quality, eliminates background noise and enhances the professional image of the company in the eyes of clients and business partners.
Modern day offices are increasingly designed with user comfort in mind. Proper acoustics are no longer a luxury – they are a standard that directly impacts productivity and work efficiency. Acoustic panels help maintain optimal working conditions while offering exceptional aesthetic qualities. This is why interest in such solutions is growing, and awareness of their benefits is no longer limited to large corporations.

Do acoustic panels work outside offices?

Though often associated with offices, acoustic panels are ideal for many other environments:
conference halls, auditoriums, exhibition spaces, hotel lobbies, large restaurants, libraries, malls, warehouses, production halls, and more.
Where there’s constant movement, there’s constant noise – and that’s where acoustic panels truly shine, offering both outstanding acoustic performance and a refined, modern aesthetic.

Acoustic panels for offices

Acoustic panels are an effective and aesthetic solution to noise problems in modern office spaces – especially in open-plan layouts, where everyday sounds like conversations, office equipment, and outside noise blend into a constant hum that disrupts focus and lowers productivity. Their effectiveness lies in sound absorption and echo reduction, which significantly improves work comfort.

Compared to other soundproofing methods, acoustic panels have one clear advantage – they work perfectly in spaces where carpets, curtains, or upholstered furniture cannot be used. In many minimalist and modern offices such elements are absent, making panel installation essential for achieving optimal acoustics.

With a wide range of styles and finishes – from perforated designs to decorative grooved patterns – acoustic panels can be tailored to meet both acoustic and visual needs. They’re also quick to install, durable, easy to maintain, and can discreetly hide wall imperfections or wiring. All of this makes them a long-term investment that not only enhances workplace comfort but also elevates the prestige and visual appeal of the interior.