Modern open-plan office spaces, such as Monster.com’s Maynard, Mass., workspace, often pose real problems for acoustical privacy. Monster.com wanted to keep the style of the 100-year old former mill building, but the exposed brick, wooden beams and large windows combined to create an acoustical challenge.
June 11, 2007 - Facilities Management
Modern open-plan office spaces, such as Monster.com’s Maynard, Mass., workspace, often pose real problems for acoustical privacy. Monster.com wanted to keep the style of the 100-year old former mill building, but the exposed brick, wooden beams and large windows combined to create an acoustical challenge.
To foster acoustical privacy for employees, the Oasis Qt sound masking system was installed. The system uses small speakers installed directly in the workspace as opposed to speakers located in the ceiling plenum. Because Monster.com’s modern office does not have a drop ceiling, a direct-field system was necessary.
The system is pre-programmed to emit an airflow-like “whoosh” that blends into the office environment. The sound’s frequency spectrum is the same as the human voice, reducing distractions and helping to ensure speech privacy.
Employees at Monster.com say they don't noticed the sound masking system until it's accidentally turned off and they can hear conversations from across the room.
