Why fine-tuning acoustic health is key to the productivity drive

Commercial workspace has seen its most significant shift in decades, starting with the rise of remote working and rapidly evolving into hybrid and flexible arrangements.

While hybrid work has become the standard for millions, an increasing number of UK businesses are now advocating for employees to spend more time in the office.

In a recent JLL report into workplace wellbeing, three-quarters of firms say collaboration is the main reason for calling staff back, with 41% believing it will improve productivity. However, the productivity benefits of this remain unclear, as many companies continue to overlook employees’ changing needs and expectations of their working environments.

And the root of the issue? Excessive, unchecked noise.

Architects must address the root of the issue when designing and specifying hybrid workspaces. Their clients must entice staff to return and replicate the comfort they experience at home. While acoustic design is often an afterthought in commercial spaces, it plays a vital role in supporting staff comfort and wellbeing.

Our 2025 research, which polled 2,000 UK office workers, revealed that unbearable noise levels are still a major factor in deterring staff from the office and eroding productivity. More than a quarter (26%) highlighted excessive noise as the reason for delivering ‘poor quality work’ and a drop in job performance. Going further, some have had to work outside of contracted hours to make up for the time lost due to a lack of concentration.

The good news is that it doesn’t need to be this way, and architects have the tools to root out this longstanding issue. One of the most effective methods is the use of premium acoustics sprays, which can be applied to walls and ceilings and nearly all substrates, making them suitable for a wide range of office workspaces and designs. They have become a popular choice for architects because they can ‘soak up’ sound energy rather than allowing it to reverberate freely.

Acoustic sprays can also be installed without impacting design schemes. Their seamless and decorative finish follows the lines of whatever is underneath, so noise will never be an issue, no matter the configuration of a space. They can also be applied at speed, making them the ideal solution for both Cat A and Cat B refurbishments. This allows for dividing structures, such as office pods, to be brought in without disrupting the acoustic spray finish on the ceiling above.

Notably, a premium acoustic spray will contribute to many sustainable design and health certification systems and add up to 17 points towards a project’s LEED rating. However, before investing in a spray, it’s essential to establish if it is Greenguard Gold certified for indoor air quality, as this will mean it meets the highest welfare standards.

Like many products, acoustic sprays also vary in quality and performance. For architects committed to fire safety, selecting an acoustic spray that surpasses the standard requirements of Approved Document B (achieving classifications such as Class 0 to BS476 and B-s1, d0) is vital. Choosing an acoustic spray that emits minimal to no smoke and produces no flaming droplets will help with the safe escape of building occupants.

Although acoustics sprays are a crucial component in solving the productivity challenge in the workplace, other strategies can help when designing for success. Rooms for focus areas and distraction-free phone calls, along with hybrid meeting zones that allow staff to interact freely and collaborate, must be made available.

What’s clear is that if businesses are serious about improving productivity levels and attracting staff back into the office, improving workplace acoustics will be key to fostering a healthy and motivated office culture. Without it, staff will continue to resist office attendance.

As the commercial sector turns yet another corner, the industry can remain one step ahead by placing acoustic design centre stage. Businesses nationwide can ensure their offices stay the company’s hub by delivering premium workspaces where employees can thrive.

The dream? Workspaces that architects are proud of, employers reap the benefits of, and employees are drawn to.