Silence booths - in peace offices

04.04.2023.

The first acoustic pods appeared in 2010 in Finland, inside a company where around 100 employees worked together in one large open space. Constant conversations made it difficult for those nearby to focus on their work.

Acoustic pods have become an essential part of modern offices, offering employees a private and quiet environment to focus, collaborate, or simply recharge. They provide an effective solution for reducing noise levels in open-plan offices and boosting productivity.

Acoustic pods are versatile solutions that meet various workplace needs. They are suitable for individual focus work, small meetings, or brief breaks. If you haven't yet heard about this loud trend in office design, it’s high time to learn more—in this article, you will discover everything about acoustic pods and the latest models offered by Salons Arka.

What Are Acoustic Pods?
Acoustic pods are private, sound-insulated spaces or furniture units that can be easily moved around the office. In recent years, they have become an indispensable feature of modern open-plan offices, where noise is a constant problem that disrupts focus, reduces productivity, and increases stress. In these environments, acoustic pods provide a true oasis of peace, quiet, and productivity amid the daily hustle. How do they achieve this?

Acoustic pods are upholstered with high-quality sound-insulating and noise-dampening materials, ventilation systems, adjustable lighting, and, as needed, fully equipped workstations (standard or height-adjustable desks, lounge chairs, standing or balance stools, power outlets, etc.).

Acoustic pods come in various sizes and designs, ranging from compact single-person booths to larger team meeting spaces. Most often, they are small, glass-walled enclosures ideal for hosting online or face-to-face meetings, team catch-ups, and group work.

Benefits of Acoustic Pods
Acoustic pods offer a range of advantages you might not even realize. Here are the main benefits:

• Improved Focus: By providing a quiet, distraction-free space with adjustable ventilation and lighting, acoustic pods enhance employee concentration and boost productivity metrics.

• Reduced Noise Pollution: Acoustic pods significantly reduce noise levels and their impact in open-plan offices, creating a calmer, healthier work environment.

• Privacy: They offer a private space for work, meetings, or resting, allowing employees to handle sensitive conversations or take a break without interruption.

• Easy Installation: Acoustic pods are easy to assemble and relocate within any room, saving substantial money on office remodeling.

• Versatile Applications: Beyond offices, acoustic pods can be installed and utilized in libraries, schools, and other public spaces.

• Enhanced Audio Quality: A pod is an ideal environment for recording high-quality audio, such as podcasts, music, or voiceovers. Sound insulation suppresses background noise, resulting in a cleaner recording.

Functions of Acoustic Pods
Acoustic pods are versatile furniture items that serve multiple functions across various public spaces and offices:

• Individual workstations in traditional or open-plan offices and coworking spaces

• Private spaces for calls, meetings, or resting

• Compact rooms for small group meetings or collaborative work

Acoustic Pods at Salons Arka
If you would like to view and purchase acoustic pods to see their effectiveness firsthand, we have great news!
Salons Arka is the official representative of the Silen Space and Chatbox acoustic pod brands in Latvia. You can view these pods in person at our showroom in Riga, Valguma Street 10.

Silen Space Acoustic Pods
Silen Space acoustic pods act almost like a living organism—growing, shrinking, and moving. This describes the modular system developed by the brand, designed to continuously adapt to changing needs.

Silen Space pods prioritize top-tier noise reduction, soundproofing, and privacy. Every single-person booth and meeting room is outfitted with unique, soundproof materials.

Silen Space units feature built-in wheels for quick and easy mobility. They also utilize a unique, straightforward module connecting and disconnecting mechanism, allowing you to split or join units according to office demands. All Silen Space pods are available in various sizes, finishes, and configurations (for 1, 2, 4, or more people). Additionally, the pods feature:

• Antibacterial coatings

• Ventilation systems

• LED lighting

• Power outlets

• Built-in furniture (desks and seating adapted to the pod size)

• Sound-insulating upholstery

The interior and exterior of the Silen Space system come in 3 base colors (white, light gray, and black), but can be customized to match your office interior with 29 additional color choices.

Chatbox Acoustic Pods
If extravagant finishes and 100% soundproof isolation are not critical priorities, Chatbox acoustic pods are a great alternative. They focus on the essentials: privacy in its simplest and most accessible form.

Chatbox pods come in 3 sizes: Single (individual space), Duo (two-person pod), and Quattro (four-person pod). Regardless of size, each pod comes equipped with desks, various seating options, and power sockets for connecting and charging devices.

How to Choose the Right Acoustic Pod for Your Office
When choosing an acoustic pod for your office, consider the following factors:

• Size: Evaluate the dimensions of the pod and how it will fit your floor plan. Be sure to measure the intended location to guarantee a seamless fit.

• Shape: Acoustic pods are available in triangular or rectangular layouts. Choose based on intended use and the specific layout of your office.

• Noise Reduction Level: Select the sound absorption level required for your environment. Some pods offer full acoustic isolation, while others provide moderate noise reduction.

• Ventilation: Ensure the pod includes an efficient ventilation system for continuous air circulation.

• Equipment: Depending on the pod's primary use (individual work vs. small meetings), select appropriate furnishings, such as standard or height-adjustable desks, ergonomic seating, soft furniture, or other accessories.

• Design: Choose a design that complements your office aesthetic. Styles vary from modern, futuristic looks to classic, traditional enclosed office styles.

Acoustic Pods – The Best Investment in a Productive Work Environment
It is no coincidence that acoustic pods are one of the biggest office trends—they adapt to diverse workplace spaces, serving multiple purposes while delivering clear benefits: higher productivity, less noise pollution, and enhanced privacy.

To find the solution that best fits your needs, contact the specialists at Salons Arka today!