The Sound of Space: Why Acoustics Matter in Interior Design
When we think about interior design, we often begin with what we can see - light, materials, form, layout. But there's a less visible dimension of design that has a profound impact on how we feel in a space: sound.
Brennan Michael Fraganes - ph: Mathilde Langevin
At Wellspace Designs, we understand that acoustics are not a luxury - they’re a foundation of wellbeing. They influence how we focus, how we connect, and how we feel over time in any environment. In workplace design especially, acoustics can either support or sabotage the experience of being present.
And yet, time and again, acoustic considerations are the first to be compromised when budgets tighten.
Designing for sound goes far beyond just reducing noise. It’s about creating balance - between connection and privacy, stimulation and stillness. In open-plan offices, poorly considered acoustics can lead to distraction, tension, and fatigue. What may appear calm and minimal to the eye can be harsh and overwhelming to the ear.
When sound is ignored, people feel it. Not always consciously, but through elevated stress, fragmented attention, and a sense that something isn’t quite right. And once the space is built, retrofitting better acoustics is often more expensive - not just financially, but in lost productivity, dissatisfaction, and employee wellbeing.
Sound is felt as much as it is heard.
It vibrates through materials, bounces off hard surfaces, or is absorbed by texture and softness. A textured wall, a well-placed acoustic panel, a felt-lined ceiling - these are not just aesthetic touches. They are tools for creating healthier, more comfortable environments.
And sound is personal. Some people thrive in buzz and energy; others need quiet to think and recharge. Inclusive design considers this full spectrum of sensitivity. For many people - especially introverts or neurodivergent individuals - the acoustic environment can determine whether a space feels welcoming or overwhelming.
We saw this shift more clearly after the pandemic. As people returned to offices from quieter home environments, many found the relentless noise of open spaces jarring. If we want our workspaces to feel supportive, we must design for the ears as well as the eyes.
At Wellspace Designs, we approach sound like any other material - with care, intention, and respect for its impact. We advocate for acoustics to be protected throughout every stage of a project, not stripped away in the name of “efficiency.” True value lies not in the cheapest outcome, but in the spaces that feel good, day after day.
Design should nourish all the senses - not just sight. When we listen deeply to how a space performs acoustically, we can design more consciously. We create environments that not only look beautiful but sound and feel balanced, calm, and human.
Because in the end, wellbeing isn’t just something we talk about. It’s something we build into the walls.