As building owners, operators, and developers adapt to a hybrid work model, creating a welcoming office space is more important than ever. In an article for Propmodo’s Perspectives series, ESD now Stantec Senior Acoustics Project Manager Scott Hamilton shares his views on the evolution of the open office and why acoustics play such a critical role to the health, comfort, and productivity of returning workers. (Learn more about open office design.)
As building owners, operators, and developers adapt to a hybrid work model, creating a welcoming office space is more important than ever. In an article for Propmodo’s Perspectives series, ESD now Stantec Senior Acoustics Project Manager Scott Hamilton shares his views on the evolution of the open office and why acoustics play such a critical role to the health, comfort, and productivity of returning workers.
In “Sound Opinion: The Impact of Acoustics on Employee Success,” Hamilton recaps the history of the open office floor plan. He says early designs were focused on maximizing efficiency and minimizing costs. While those goals continue to top the list of many employers today, creating environments to attract remote workers back to the office part-time is also crucial.
In creating healthier and more inviting office spaces, Hamilton says don’t ignore sound. He writes, “Consulting with a qualified acoustics expert can be a great first step in solving problems before they happen. In addition to sound masking, a careful study of office space layout and the location of individuals can help address perceived sound issues and other problems cited in open office environments.”
Hamilton argues the next evolution of the open office plan needs to support the many things missed during the pandemic lockdown, including face-to-face interactions, team bonding, mentoring, and spontaneous collaboration. He says great ideas can be sparked by unplanned conversations. But that only happens when people are comfortable returning to the office.
Scott Hamilton has extensive experience working with acoustics and has successfully managed numerous projects, including data centers, concert halls, universities, healthcare facilities, and more. He freely shares his knowledge to further ESD now Stantec’s mission to build communities and improve society through the built environment.
Contact us to learn more about how ESD now Stantec can help solve your acoustic and other built environment challenges.
