Responsive, landscaped floor plans integrate worker requirements for flexibility. This is generally achieved through zoning. Best practice interior design principles include the following recommendations:
Spaces need to be zoned in such way that do not clash in terms of tasks performed. The layout should be reconfigurable in at least some parts to allow zones to change to respond to different uses and appropriation of space. The spaces also ride the wave of sensing technology to harness the power of data to inform changes based on the evidence coming from actual use and performance of the layout over time.1
This means the acoustics of a space must be just as flexible; a requirement naturally suited to sound masking. Sound masking system design principles provide two key benefits to multiple zones. The first is the ability to tune the spectrum shapes and levels to account for different ceiling surfaces or purposes. The second is inbuilt adaptability and future proofing.
Alcoa case study
In this case study, zoning played a key role. The client, Alcoa’s, requirements necessitated tailored acoustic requirements where each zone was set to meet the needs of the space. To achieve this, the design layout divided the space into seven acoustic zones: the hallway and reception area, then six open plan office spaces. The sound levels were set between 39dBA to 41dBA (+/-1dBA) for the hallway transitional sections, 40dBA to 42dBA (+/-1dBA) reception area, and 41dBA to 43dBA (+/-1dBA) for the open plan areas to create a comfortable working environment for the end users. This met the requirements to enhance worker productivity and comfort by reducing the impact of distracting noise and ensuring speech privacy.
Flexible zoning
There was also an in-built flexibility in the zoning. This means that if the client changes their floor design in the future, or wants to adapt spaces for different uses, the sound masking system can be adjusted to fit the new requirements with negligible cost. This is because there will be no need to re-install a sound masking system. Instead, the system can be easily reconfigured. This can include changing the zones themselves or simply adjusting the sound levels to accommodate the new zone requirements. The responsive design gives the client peace of mind and full control of the acoustic environment.
This blog is an edited excerpt from The flexibility of sound masking: three case studies from Perth presented at Acoustics 2025. To read the full paper, please click here.
- Candido, Christhina, Iva Durakovic, and Samin Marzban (eds). 2024. Routledge Handbook of High-Performance Workplaces, 1st edition. ↩︎