Roger Anderek
To create a truly good acoustic environment, we first need to understand what sound is, how it behaves, and how we as individuals perceive it.
Sound is a vibration that spreads through a medium and behaves differently depending on the conditions in the room. Sound is also deeply personal – what I may find pleasant, someone else might experience as intrusive or even disturbing.
I remember struggling with this as a teenager, when music became an important part of my life. It puzzled me that friends could enjoy artists and genres that left me unmoved. Why didn’t everyone hear what I heard?
This difference in perception remains true in the workplace. Some people thrive in a lively, bustling office, while others – as research shows – find their focus and productivity hampered by background noise. Personally, I belong to the group that needs a calmer environment when carrying out tasks that demand concentration. Which type are you?
Sound is deeply personal – what I may find pleasant, someone else might experience as disturbing. That’s why creating acoustic environments that support different needs is so important.
We spend a significant part of our lives at work, and the office is also an important space for social connection. A positive, engaging environment contributes to wellbeing and a sense of belonging. Over the years, office design has evolved – from cubicles to open-plan layouts, hybrid solutions and remote working. Each shift highlights the fact that people have different needs and that workplaces must adapt accordingly. Acoustics are a vital part of this equation.
In my role, I support architects, property owners, workplace strategists and organisations in developing acoustic concepts. When these solutions reach the individual – creating wellbeing, enhancing performance and enabling people to thrive – then I know I have succeeded.
This is our task and challenge:
A sound effect on people.