Invest Soundproof Office Booths for Maximum Focus at Work
Workplace Inspiration

Invest Soundproof Office Booths for Maximum Focus at Work

|Apr 26, 2024
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Not every individual in a workplace possesses a similar mindset and comfort level. If some people work better in open, collaborative spaces, then some prefer a more private and enclosed work setup. An open office plan is the biggest hindrance to productivity for such types of individuals. It is also impractical to provide separate spaces to every employee as it might hinder those who prefer a chattier workspace; thus, a mid-way must be achieved.

Thanks to innovations in the work environment, the advent of soundproof office pods delivers the right level of mental peace and physical privacy right in the middle of an open office space. This quiet pod for the office can separate the work chatter from a soundproof workspace with just a door and four walls. Purchasing a quiet pod for the office is a much better decision than spending hundreds of dollars on modifying infrastructure. In this article, we will enlist some of the best indoor office pods.

What Is a Soundproof Office Booth?

Soundproof office booths or soundproof meeting pods are enclosed spaces that offer privacy and noise elimination. They can be used as dedicated work or office spaces for a working from home office setup. These spaces can be handy for taking phone or conference calls and provide a stress-free zone where you can focus on your work. 

Work booths or pods are no new concept and have been around for some time, but with the traditional work model, they have only been used by a small group of people like music composers who need to work at home. Some have even used these handy spaces as soundproof sleeping pods. 

They have proven to improve concentration and employee performance, as with greater focus comes greater productivity. It also gives workers the freedom to be themselves when dealing with clients without fearing the judgment of others. 

The Benefits of a Soundproof Work Pod

While an office-based work model is quickly becoming outdated, you have to admit that it does have its advantages. When you work from home, several distractions can prevent you from working productively. 

This is where the soundproof pod comes in handy. Here are a few benefits of soundproof meeting pods:

1. They Make It Easier to Take Phone Calls

Having a soundproof workspace like a soundproof meeting pod is ideal for confidential discussions, particularly those involving a project or venture subject to a non-disclosure agreement. 

If you are in sales, you can gain great confidence from having privacy because you know that no one is listening in on your conversation, so it gives you the freedom to put your best foot forward. A more relaxed atmosphere may also encourage customers to have the type of discussion necessary to place that large order. 

It isn't easy to focus on a telephone conversation when other people are talking nearby. Hearing several voices or sounds simultaneously can be disorienting, and it can become very easy to lose track of what your client is saying, which can cost you your client's business. 

This can be considerably more problematic with video and conference calls, as there are often several people present at the conference at the same time, so concentrating on who is saying what while still having background noise distract can leave you anxious and confused. 

Video conferencing can be played on speaker in a private soundproof office booth without sound interference and without distracting others. It also creates a more professional experience for people on the other end of the line, which is vital. 

2. Benefits to Your Mental Health

You may not realize this, but constant background noise distraction severely impacts your mental health. The sound of that car horn or the television playing in the background can cause you to become anxious and stressed subconsciously.

Additionally, feeling like there’s nothing you can do to change your situation causes further stress and anxiety, causing you to feel trapped, even if you have a dedicated work area. High stress levels have been linked to several health disorders and can even lower immunity, putting you at risk of infection and illness.

However, entering the privacy of a soundproof booth is like a breath of fresh air for your brain, as you can compose your thoughts and focus, reducing anxiety and stress, and allowing you to focus on the task at hand.

Benefits to Your Mental Health

3. Boost Your Creativity

If your job description involves creativity, you can benefit significantly from a soundproof booth. Many soundproof pods have a modern design that lets you take in the beauty of your surroundings and enjoy the natural lighting, which all positively affect the human body. 

Its futuristic, often minimalist, design serves as a blank canvas for the mind, leaving it free to develop new ideas. 

4. Improve Your Health

According to several studies, working in a non-soundproof workspace in the comfort of your home puts you at greater risk of illness. This is because bacteria and viruses can be transmitted more readily when you work in close proximity to other people. 

Additionally, the stress caused by noise pollution that is often uncontrollable in work-from-home situations reduces your immunity, making you more susceptible to disease and illness. 

Knowing how to soundproof your home office can make a world of difference to your health and give you more time to do what you love without having to take time off for bed rest after becoming ill.

Improve Your Health

Where Can You Use a Soundproof Office Booth?

A soundproof booth is versatile and can be used in various settings, whether at work, at home, or in a shared space. Here are some of the best places to use a soundproof booth for office or home office:

1. Open-Plan Offices

Open-plan offices are notorious for being noisy and distracting. While they encourage collaboration, they can also hinder focus and productivity. A soundproof office booth is the perfect solution for people in open offices who need a quiet space to focus, make phone calls, or attend video conferences. These booths provide the privacy you need without the isolation that traditional cubicles often create.

2. Home Offices

For those working from home, creating a quiet and distraction-free environment is crucial. A soundproof booth for home office allows you to separate yourself from household noise and create a dedicated workspace. Whether it’s for video calls, focused work, or brainstorming, a soundproof booth ensures you have a professional space where you can concentrate fully. You can place it in your home backyard.

3. Libraries and Co-working Spaces

Libraries and co-working spaces are often designed to foster collaboration and idea-sharing, but they can also be filled with noise, which can disrupt work. A soundproof booth for offices within these spaces can provide a private, quiet area for focused work. These booths are perfect for freelancers, remote workers, or students who need to concentrate in a shared environment.

4. Educational Institutions

Soundproof booths can be highly beneficial in educational institutions, especially for students who need a quiet space for exams, private tutoring, or focused study time. They can also be used by staff or faculty for administrative tasks or virtual meetings without being interrupted by the noise of the campus environment.

Where Can You Use a Soundproof Office Booth?

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soundproof Office Booth

When shopping for a soundproof office booth, it's important to think beyond just the noise-blocking features. While soundproofing is crucial, several other elements can impact the booth’s functionality, comfort, and overall value. Let’s break down the key factors to consider:

1. Size and Capacity

Before you settle on a soundproof booth for the office, think about how much space you need. Are you looking for a booth to comfortably fit just one person, or do you need something that can accommodate multiple people or a larger setup for meetings?

  • Small booths: Ideal for individual work, phone calls, or video meetings.
  • Larger booths: Suitable for group discussions, collaborative work, or even as a small meeting room. These booths often come with features like multiple office chairs, desks, and larger dimensions for extra comfort.

It's essential to choose a booth that fits your specific needs. Too small, and it may feel cramped; too large, and it could be an inefficient use of space. Measure the area where you plan to place the booth to ensure it fits without overcrowding the room.

2. Soundproofing Rating (STC)

The Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating is a key factor when evaluating the effectiveness of soundproofing in a booth. STC measures how well a structure blocks sound; the higher the rating, the better it is at reducing external noise. For optimal performance, look for a soundproof booth for the office with an STC rating of 30 or higher.

  • STC 30-35: Can block out most speech and typical office noise.
  • STC 40+: Offers superior soundproofing, blocking out all but the loudest noises.

If you’re in a particularly noisy environment, it’s worth investing in a booth with a higher STC rating for maximum peace and quiet.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soundproof Office Booth

3. Ventilation and Airflow

One common complaint about soundproof booths is that they can feel stuffy or lack proper airflow. This is especially important if you’re planning to use the booth for long periods.

Look for a soundproof office booth with built-in ventilation systems that ensure you stay comfortable while working. Features like passive ventilation, quiet fans, or air circulation systems are essential for maintaining a comfortable atmosphere. Some booths also include air filtration systems, which can improve the air quality and reduce odors.

4. Lighting and Power Outlets

Your booth should be well-lit to create an inviting and functional space. Many modern soundproof office booths come with LED lighting that’s adjustable to suit your preferences. Adjustable lighting can help reduce eye strain, especially during long working hours.

Additionally, make sure the booth is equipped with adequate power outlets. This will allow you to plug in your laptop, phone charger, and other essential devices without leaving the booth. Built-in USB ports or wireless charging can also be convenient additions to consider.

Lighting and Power Outlets

5. Materials and Build Quality

The materials used to construct the booth will determine its durability, soundproofing efficiency, and overall comfort. Look for booths made from high-quality, sound-absorbing materials like acoustic panels, foam insulation, or soundproof glass.

The frame should be sturdy yet easy to assemble and move if needed. Additionally, check the finish and aesthetic appeal of the booth. You’ll want something that not only performs well but also looks good in your office space.

6. Aesthetics and Design

Incorporating a soundproof booth for the office into your workspace means considering its appearance and how it blends with your overall office design. Modern booths come in various styles, from minimalist and sleek to more bold and stylish designs. Choose a booth that complements your existing office decor, whether it’s contemporary, industrial, or something else.

Aesthetics and Design

Customizable options for colors, finishes, and interior design are also available. Whether you prefer neutral tones or a splash of color, there’s likely a booth that suits your personal taste.

The Best Office Soundproof Booths for Workplace and Home Backyard

A soundproof office booth is a portable office pod with all the work amenities available within a tiny, confined space. Emerging from the idea of a private work shed amidst the pandemic, office privacy pods provide a variety of work styles, understanding that some people need or want a quieter environment to function optimally. This inclusiveness encourages a more varied and flexible work environment for all. Knowing these benefits, here is a list of some unique, modern studio shed styles from Autonomous which I found suitable for your needs.

1. Autonomous WorkPod

Being number one when it comes to ergonomic workplace solutions, Autonomous has the best selection of backyard pods, too. I find the WorkPod highly suitable as a backyard office but when it comes to pods for an open office plan, it works well too. The best thing I felt about the WorkPod is that it is fully customizable where you can select the window placement, the dimensions, and the option of with or without furniture for a change in price. And if you prefer to control the acoustics as well, the Autonomous WorkPod does the job of a soundproof office room well.

Another great thing is that it is ready for action as it comes installed with all the connections you might need for your work or gaming room thus I really loved the idea of saving myself some time off tedious wiring and setup. Thanks to the transparent design it is both perfect for a busy office and as a backyard prefab office shed. A prefab home office offers a versatile, quick-to-assemble option, combining quality with efficiency.

WorkPod

WorkPod

Next-level WFH.
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon97 reviews

Overall size8.5’W x 12’L x 11’H
Floorspace102 square feet
Ceiling height6.8’ to 9.3’
Weight capacity2.9 tons
Door & Window dimensions, material (include glass)Main door: 7.5’W x 6.8'H
3 windows: 1.1’W x 7.9’H
Window material: Wooden frame, 5/16” tempered glass, composite wood cover
Door material: Anodized aluminum frame, 5/16” tempered glass
Siding, roof, floor & balcony materialSiding: Plywood 1/2”, wooden frame, honeycomb paper, plywood 3/8”, bitume, housewrap, vinyl siding
Roof: Roof shingles
Floor: Plywood
Balcony: Composite wood
Electrical devices1 RCB (Residual current breaker)
3 Wall outlet (Universal wall sockets)
1 Ceiling light switch
1 Ceiling light
1 Ventilator switch
1 Ventilator
66ft power cable with 2 connectors
Power inputMaximum voltage: 110V AC (US standard)
Maximum current: 25A
Maximum power dissipation: 2750W
Interior furnitureUnfurnished option: 1 Bookshelf, 1 Electrical Cabinet
Furnished option: 1 SmartDesk Connect, 1 Autonomous Chair Ultra, 1 Monitor Arm, 1 Cable Tray, 1 Filing Cabinet, 1 Anti-Fatigue Mat, 1 Bookshelf, 1 Electrical Cabinet
Compatible withPortable air conditioner: A/C units with dimensions smaller than 22” L x 20” W x 88” H and a 5.9” vent hole diameter will fit well.
Heater: A small personal heater is more than sufficient.

The WorkPod sets itself apart from other brands by providing all necessary setup components, including a foundation and quick assembly in just 2-3 days. The price of the WorkPod includes essential features such as windows, a door, and lifestyle-friendly interiors. The table below presents a detailed cost comparison between the WorkPod and other brands, emphasizing the WorkPod’s superior value and convenience.

2. Autonomous WorkPod Versatile

Next to the WorkPod is the WorkPod Versatile which delivers a retro classic vibe. If you are a person of taste like me, then WorkPod Versatile serves both looks and purpose. Giving full flash vibes of a studio, the WorkPod Versatile is portable, versatile, easier to move around (as compared to other pods), and is very compact too. It has a built-in insulation feature, windows, a door, and a space that can host a full single workstation to even a four-person meeting room setup. This insulation saves you the effort of installing any extra ventilation system as well.

The acoustic ability blocks unnecessary sounds and minimizes disturbances. For someone like me who likes to work in solitude but also feels like a part of the team, the transparent design helps.  So, if you are worried about purchasing a studio shed that makes it harder to keep an eye on the employees inside, this pod solves the dilemma easily. A studio office shed provides a flexible, stylish workspace that can be adapted for various uses.

WorkPod Versatile

WorkPod Versatile

For work and play.
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon54 reviews

Overall size8’4”W x 12’6”L x 9’10”H
Floorspace105 square feet
Ceiling height7’3”
Weight capacity2.9 tons
Pedestal18”W x 43”L x 7”H
Door & Window dimensions, material (include glass)Main door: 39”W x 89”H
Large window: 59”W x 81”H
Small window: 39”W x 39”H
Window & door material: Powder coated aluminum, 5/16” tempered glass
Siding, roof, floor & balcony materialSiding: Plywood 1/2”, steel frame, honeycomb paper, plywood 3/8”, bitume, housewrap, vinyl siding
Roof: Roof shingles
Floor: Plywood
Pedestal: Steel frame & wood plastic composite
Electrical devices

1 RCB (Residual current breaker)
5 Wall outlet (Universal wall sockets)
1 Ceiling light switch
4 Ceiling light
1 Ventilator switch
1 Ventilator
2 Ethernet wall port
66ft power cable with 2 connectors

Power inputMaximum voltage: 110V AC (US standard)
Maximum current: 25A
Maximum power dissipation: 2750W
Furniture (optional)Cabinet, Desk, Small & Big Bookshelf, TV Shelf, Foldable Sofa Table & Electrical Cabinet*
(*Electrical Cabinet always included)

3. Autonomous WorkPod mini

The WorkPod mini has a lavish vibe and luxury feel but it will suit your professional office setup too. Firstly, it is one of the most affordable work pods you will find in the market. It has a modern, sleek design and top-class engineering involved in its make and build. The WorkPod mini is also very well-built and  can be moved around several times without the risk of breaking up or losing its durability. It comes with the option of with or without pre-installed amenities so that you can use it for gaming, a backyard gym, or other needs too.

I feel the design and look of the pod will complement a modern gaming setup. It also has pre-wired and has several outlets so that you can add your own finishing touches. Once you've connected it to a power source, you can move in and start making it your own. Though it might spike up your electricity bill, but with lots of benefits thats a little price we have to pay!

WorkPod mini

WorkPod mini

For small yards and budgets.
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon8 reviews

DimensionOverall size: 8’7"W x 9’L x 9’3"H
Floorspace: 80 square feet
Ceiling height: 7’3"
Weight capacity: 2.3 tons (including Pod body)
Pedestal: 24"W x 103"L x 9"H
Door & Window dimensions, material (include glass)Main door: 37"W x 89"H (open side) & 33"W x 89"H (fixed side)
Window: 43"W x 20"H
Window & door material: Powder coated aluminum, 5/16" tempered glass
Siding, roof, floor & balcony materialSiding: Plywood 1/2" , steel frame, honeycomb paper, plywood 3/8", bitume, housewrap, vinyl siding
Roof: Metal roofing
Floor: Plywood
Balcony & Pedestal: Steel frame & wood plastic composite
Electrical devices1 RCB (Residual current breaker)
2 Wall outlet (Universal wall sockets)
1 Ceiling light switch
1 Ceiling light
1 Wall light
1 Ethernet wall port
66ft power cable with 2 connectors
Power inputMaximum voltage: 110V AC (US standard)
Maximum current: 25A
Maximum power dissipation: 2750W

If you’re interested in home office pods, you might also want to explore these related options:

  • A garden office pod creates a tranquil, nature-inspired workspace right in your backyard, combining functionality with beautiful surroundings.
  • An outdoor office shed allows you to work amidst nature, enjoying fresh air and a serene environment.
  • A home office pod is a smart choice for modern professionals seeking to enhance their productivity and work-life balance.
  • Consider a soundproof office pod for home if you need an ultra-quiet workspace to ensure complete concentration and focus.

Conclusion

Soundproof office pods offer great utility and I have become an absolute fan as I started using them. Get one for yourself now and experience the new work life! The soundproof office pod is a must-have for those who are easily distracted by noises. It can provide you the privacy you need to perform at your best, improve productivity at work, creativity, and even positively impact your mental and physical health. 

We recommend the Autonomous Word Pod, as it is the most innovative and all-inclusive option on this list. Additionally, it is designed to be set up outside, which further reduces distractions, helping you enjoy the calming effects of nature without the distractions of noise.

Autonomous SmartDesk 5

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