Are you wondering how to create a calm office space? Creating a calm, relaxed work environment is a great way to boost employee wellbeing and productivity. With the rise of open-plan offices and collaborative spaces, managing noise levels and creating a calming environment at work can be challenging. The good news is that forward-thinking solutions like acoustic panels, thoughtful signage and intelligent design can help you transform any commercial environment into a calm and peaceful space.
Innovation with acoustic panels
Acoustic panels are an exciting innovation in modern workplace design. They combine aesthetics with functionality, so signs go beyond just the visuals. By absorbing excess noise and reducing echoes, acoustic panels help transform busy spaces into more peaceful environments, making them ideal for offices, commercial spaces and schools.
"We're currently testing acoustic panelling in our showroom," said Vinny, Lead Designer at FASTSIGNS Leeds, when talking about upcoming signage trends earlier this year. "We have used this for Leeds University at a couple of sites, and we predict a rise in its popularity and adoption across the signage industry."
Read the case study: The Coach House at The University of Leeds
What are acoustic panels?
When it comes to creating a calming environment at work, innovative solutions like acoustic panels are a great option. Acoustic panels are like sound-absorbing artwork for your walls. These versatile panels:
Soak up excess noise instead of letting it carry throughout a room
Can be customised with your choice of graphics, branding or wayfinding information
Come in various shapes and sizes to suit a wide range of different spaces
Work alongside traditional signage to enhance your overall design
How acoustic panels work
Modern acoustic panels use advanced materials to:
Absorb and diffuse sound, reducing echoes
Lower overall noise in busy spaces
Create clearer sound in conference rooms or meeting areas
Minimise sound transferring between different spaces
Reduce stress caused by constant background noise
Where acoustic panels make an impact
Acoustic panels don't just absorb excess noise. They can be customised to complement your brand, creating a visually smart finish. They're particularly effective in:
Open-plan offices where sound travels
Meeting areas and conference rooms
Busy corridors and communal spaces
Reception areas and lobbies
Schools and educational spaces
Acoustic panels are a new way of thinking about designing functional spaces where every element serves a purpose. They combine noise reduction with visual appeal, improving both the look and functionality of your space. When combined with other thoughtful design elements, they can be a great investment in creating spaces that work better for everyone.
Creating comprehensive calm spaces
While acoustic panels are a great first step towards creating a more tranquil environment, they're just one piece of a larger puzzle. Here's how other design elements can contribute to a calmer work or office space:
Strategic signage
Well-designed, clear signage helps direct people easily – reducing stress and creating order. Options for signage that can contribute towards a calmer environment include:
Minimalist wayfinding signage that guides guests without being overwhelming.
Clear identification signs for different departments to improve navigation.
Digital displays that look visually sleek while providing a steady flow of relevant information.
Learn more: Your guide to directional signage
Biophilic design elements
Biophilic design is all about bringing the outdoors in. Understanding how to make an office space calming often starts with incorporating natural elements, which can significantly reduce stress levels. Biophilic design often includes lots of natural light and greenery, which can lead to better mood, boosted productivity and lower stress levels. Consider:
Living walls to bring greenery to a space. They can also improve air quality, regulate temperatures indoors and reduce noise.
Natural materials in signage and design elements, like reclaimed wood or stone.
Strategic use of natural light to enhance the connection between indoor spaces and nature.
Greenery like desk plants and potted plants to help create a welcoming atmosphere.
Find out more: Biophilic Design for Offices – Ideas and Inspiration
Thoughtful colour schemes
Colour psychology is an important tool in creating calm environments. When considering how to make your office space calming, the colours you choose for a space can impact mood, creativity, productivity and stress levels. Choosing the right colour scheme can transform a space from overwhelming to tranquil, without having to compromise on your brand identity or professionalism. Think about:
Soft blues and greens to promote calmness and focus – research shows that these are the most calming colours for an office.
Light neutral tones to create a sense of spaciousness, like warm greys and gentle whites.
Strategic pops of colour in signs to draw attention without being overwhelming.
Find out more: The power of colour in branding and signs
Well-designed lighting
Poor lighting can cause eye strain and fatigue, which isn’t ideal for a work environment. Well-designed lighting, however, can enhance the mood and encourage productivity. The right lighting combines natural lighting and artificial light to create a welcoming environment:
Use layered lighting that combines general room lighting with focused lighting for specific work areas.
Large windows are great for maximising natural light throughout a space.
Adjustable lighting can adapt to different times of day and activities.
Think about indirect lighting which reduces harsh shadows and creates a softer atmosphere.
Creating your ideal space
Every workspace is unique, and learning how to create a calming office space means finding the right balance of elements that work for you. From acoustic panels to smart lighting, there are so many ways you can transform busy commercial spaces into environments that are more peaceful and productive.
At FASTSIGNS Leeds, we know how important it is to create spaces that work well for the people that use them. Whether you’d like to explore acoustic panels or you’re looking for a complete workplace signage transformation, we can help you make your statement.
Get in touch today to find out more about how we can help create a calmer environment for your business.