Soundproofing is the New Luxury: Materials + Design Strategies for Quieter Homes & Offices

By Andrea Erickson

“I really love how noisy my office gets during rush hour…” Said no one ever.

While clamorous interior environments have never been desirable, they have really become “public enemy #1” in recent years amid the rise in multi-use buildings and the demand for pristine technological connectivity.

Given this framework, keep reading as we explore how soundproofing is a new luxury standard in the design of home and office spaces.

Benefits of Quieter Spaces
Noisy spaces are a nuisance, no doubt about it.

However, a soundproof home office is more than just a “nice-to-have.” Tranquil home and work environments have diverse benefits such as:

• Improved focus - limiting distracting noise is especially crucial in the era of remote work, digital content creation, online schooling, and multi-generational living.
• Lessen anxiety - some people have stress reactions to exposure to loud noises.
• Physiological benefits - quiet spaces limit the threat of tinnitus or noise-related headaches.
• Better relationships - clear, quality communication is central to maintaining strong personal and work bonds.

Furthermore, quiet spaces are looked on very attractively in the real estate market. So don’t look at soundproofing as a “perk.” It’s a strategic interior design investment that will pay itself back in numerous ways.
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Tools and Techniques for Soundproofing a Home or Office

Interior soundproofing is decidedly more polished than stapling egg cartons to the walls (if you were into 90’s grunge, you already know). Fortunately. Let’s take a look at some of the most impactful items in the designer’s arsenal.

Acoustic Glazing

Windows are one of the keys to quiet spaces. Howling winds and bustling exteriors can potentially pollute your interior. Degradation in the window-to-wall transition can create a point of ingress for noise transfer.

Acoustic glazing uses laminated glass. It has specialized layers that dampen sound vibrations. This significantly limits the transmission of exterior noise into interior spaces. Multiple panes with varying thicknesses is another deft strategy. This disrupts the frequency of various sound waves, rather than just a single frequency.

Any conversation of how to soundproof windows would not be complete without fortifying the window-to-wall transition. Choose a quality silicone-based sealant to close off any gaps. Add trim for an additional layer of sound defense. Explore innovative window seal inserts that attach magnetically to the trim or directly in between the jambs.

Insulated Drapery

Any type of window treatment (drapes, blinds, etc.) will have some degree of soundproofing utility.

Thick fabrics. Thermal or mass-loaded backings. They help absorb and dampen sound vibrations. They reduce echo within the room. All while limiting transmission of street or neighborhood noise.

Wall Assemblies

Advanced wall assemblies can be refined while still keeping soundproofing in mind.

Staggered or double-stud framing. Resilient channels. “Quiet” insulation (recycled denim, mineral wool). Multiple layers of drywall.

The increased mass and decoupling techniques used in these innovative wall assemblies can significantly reduce sound transmission between spaces. They disrupt the path of airborne and impact noise to keep sound vibration from traveling between structural elements of the building.
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Acoustic Panels

Acoustic panels are as stylish as they are sleek.

They are commonly made of a fiberglass or acoustic foam core (1- or 2-inch thickness) wrapped in a decorative fabric for aesthetic appeal. They attach to the wall similar to a portrait. The best panels can achieve a NRC approaching 1 with as little as 15-25% wall coverage. The ultimate in low-profile soundproofing.

With the open concept going nowhere anytime soon in the world of interior design, acoustic panels are one of the best soundproofing tools for keeping interior noise local to its origin.

Natural Textiles

Natural textiles soften hard surfaces. They make it difficult for sound waves to bounce off of walls and floors.

Wool. Cotton. Linen. These are a few textiles with dense fibers that are highly effective at trapping sound waves.

Rugs, curtains, upholstery, and wall hangings maximize the acoustic benefits of these textiles while yielding a warm, luxurious aesthetic to elevate the home or office.
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Soundproofing as Part of Human-Centered Design

Human-centered design is an emerging framework in the interior design world.
At every stage of the process, the designer asks:

1. How will this space be used and experienced by people as part of their daily routines?
2. How will it contribute positively to their physical and psychological needs?

Many pieces exploring human-centered design focus on concepts such as biophilia and healthy material sourcing. While these are undoubtedly important, acoustics match them step-for-step. Calm, quiet environments are essential for human well-being in the built environment.
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A New Standard of Luxury: Curate Quiet Interiors Today
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Quiet interiors are more than convenient. An added bonus. A perk. They are a new standard of luxury in an increasingly connected and multi-use world. For more of the latest trends in high-end interiors, explore the content at Jill Seidner Interior Design for ideas and inspiration today!

Author Bio

Andrea Erickson is a freelance writer who loves sharing her knowledge and expertise in renovation and Interior Design. She lives in her hometown of Austin, Texas where she enjoys spending time with her husband and decorating with her children. Andrea’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.