INTERIORS & INTERIOR DESIGN
THE SOUND OF SUCCESS
WHY ACOUSTIC DESIGN PLAYS A VITAL PART IN THE OFFICE RETURN
By Ben Hancock, Managing Director of Oscar Acoustics
As the return to the office gathers momentum across the UK, many businesses are discovering their workspaces are still somewhat unprepared for this transition – especially when it comes to an oftenoverlooked culprit; office noise.
Recent research from Oscar Acoustics reveals the stark reality facing today’ s workforce. Over half( 56 %) of corporate workers in 2025 consider their office noisy, whilst nearly three-quarters( 71 %) feel their workspace neither supports their return nor enhances productivity. This isn’ t just a minor inconvenience, it’ s a productivity crisis that’ s been steadily worsening, with 81 % of employees in 2023 reporting noise negatively impacting their work, up dramatically from just 49 % in 2019.
SonaSpray acoustic ceiling spray throughout Oscar Acoustics’ HQ & product showroom – The Oscar Innovation Centre. Image © Antonia Stuart.
The Hidden Cost of Cacophony
The consequences of poor acoustic design extend far beyond simple annoyance. The data shows that office noise directly impacts performance, with 47 % of workers struggling to concentrate, 36 % experiencing irritation, and 30 % reporting increased stress levels. These impacts are driving concerning behavioural changes. Indeed, 41 % of employees now wear headphones( up from 23 % in 2022), while 36 % choose to work from home specifically to escape noise. Additionally, one in five colleagues has resorted to snapping at each other over noise levels.
For neurodiverse employees – who represent over 15 % of the UK population – the challenges are even more acute. Oscar Acoustics’ research shows that 42 % of employees with autism, 35 % with ADHD, and significant proportions with dyspraxia and dyslexia struggle specifically with office noise, impacting both their work quality and job satisfaction.
Perhaps most concerning is the health dimension. The World Health Organisation identifies noise pollution as the second biggest environmental health risk after air pollution, contributing to serious conditions including hearing loss, diabetes, strokes, heart disease, and heart attacks.
Creating Spaces That Invite
Forward-thinking businesses are recognising that the solution isn’ t mandating return-to-office policies, but creating environments that naturally draw people back. This requires a fundamental shift towards acoustic and strategic design.
SonaSpray acoustic decorative spray in dMFK’ s HQ- 76 Charlotte St. Image © Killian O’ Sullivan.
The path forward involves implementing acoustic zoning to balance quiet work areas with collaborative spaces, incorporating natural elements that support wellbeing, and investing in high-quality acoustic solutions that absorb rather than reflect sound energy.
As businesses navigate this transition, the message is clear: those who prioritise acoustic design won’ t just bring employees back – they’ ll create environments where both people and profits can truly flourish.
To download Oscar Acoustics whitepaper on this subject, titled Shaping Future-Ready Work Spaces for The Great Return to the Office, click here:
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