How to create more privacy at the office

Open offices seem to be the biggest trend for workspaces at the moment. Cubicles seem to fade out, and nowadays, it’s all about sharing a small desk or table with everyone.

This is an interior that was mostly used for startups as they tried to cut corners, but now even some of the biggest corporations in the world are going at this too. Sure, they’re aesthetically pleasing compared to the ugly cubicle.

Supposedly these wide open spaces are even better for employee wellbeing. But there is one thing that you must keep in mind is the fact that privacy is a good thing.

In fact, in some cases, there NEEDS to be privacy. When it comes to classified documents and certain meetings, there are some things that just need to be kept private, even in your own company.

Plus, to a degree, that lack of privacy (for anyone of any position) can eventually become anxiety inducing. So, here’s how you can create more privacy in the office.

Set specific hours for quiet work

One of the best ways to encourage workers to get their work done without distraction is by giving them dedicated quiet time. In addition to helping them avoid burnout, this will allow them to focus more clearly and efficiently on important tasks that need to be finished.

This is especially important for office environments with open floor plans where it can be hard to escape from other people.

Offering a variety of quiet spaces is a good way to address this need. For instance, you can create a privacy booth in the corner of your open office space to give individuals a place to retreat to when needed. 

Silence helps create the illusion of privacy, especially when people have certain work they need to do.

Consider privacy spaces

While cubicles are ugly, and everyone having their own office is next to impossible nowadays, it’s important to find a middle ground.

For instance, for certain meeting rooms and certain offices, switchable glass might be a good idea. But for other parts of the office, you could consider small privacy booths or even privacy panels for small desks. 

Providing employees with an opportunity to choose a workspace that meets their needs and mood will boost productivity. It will also encourage communication and collaboration. Fully open offices lack the division and seclusion necessary for workers to focus and concentrate on their work.

As a result, workers in these environments take more sick days than those who work in private office spaces. So, in general, just remember that privacy spaces can do more good than harm, there can still be privacy spaces, and everyone will still be productive.

Consider the noise

It’s not just physical presence, but the noise in the office too. For the most part, it’s the frequent noise that causes people to be less productive.

One thing more open floor plan offices are considering is sound masking; it basically prevents noise from traveling throughout the office, which does technically create more privacy.