Acoustics

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June 8, 2026

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Minutes Reading

Do Noise Cancelling Curtains Work? Guide & Tips

Noise cancelling curtains can reduce noise but do not fully block sound. Learn how they work, what they can and cannot do, and when to combine them with other acoustic solutions.

Zygi Krupskis

Co-Founder

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Persy Booths

Reviewed by

John Bottom

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Independent Journalist

Author Bio

About Persy

Knowledge Base

“We set the modern standard for what to expect from office work booths – high-quality soundproofing and ventilation solutions, sustainable materials, and an optimized set of features.”

Noise cancelling curtains installed in an office space

Do noise cancelling curtains work? In short – yes, they can reduce noise, but they will not completely block sound in the way true soundproofing does. Noise cancelling curtains work by absorbing and dampening sound waves, helping to reduce noise from outside and improve the acoustic comfort of a room. They are a cost-effective solution for people dealing with traffic noise, noisy neighbours, or general ambient noise, or anyone facing a persistent noise problem in their living or working space in a world filled with distractions.

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At Persy Booths, we work closely with companies trying to solve everyday noise problems in offices and homes. While products like office pods offer a more controlled acoustic environment, many people first look to simpler solutions like curtains – so it’s worth understanding exactly how well they perform.

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If you are considering noise reducing curtains, this guide will explain how they work, what they can and cannot do, and when they are the right choice.

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How Noise Cancelling Curtains Reduce Sound

Noise canceling curtains separating a quiet workspace in an open office

Noise cancelling curtains reduce noise by absorbing sound waves before they travel into a room. Instead of reflecting sound energy, dense fabric and multiple layers trap and dissipate it.

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This process is known as sound absorption. When sound waves hit thick, tightly woven materials, part of the sound energy is absorbed rather than passing through or bouncing around the space. In fact, when sound waves encounter the dense materials of soundproof curtains, they convert sound energy into heat energy, thereby diminishing the overall sound level. This helps reduce echoes and lower overall noise levels. Reducing the transmission and reflection of sound is a key part of managing noise – which is exactly what acoustic curtains aim to do.

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Unlike soundproof windows or structural sound insulation, curtains do not block sound entirely. Instead, they reduce noise by limiting how much sound enters and how much internal noise reflects within the room.

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Materials Used in Noise Cancelling Curtains

The materials used in noise cancelling curtains are critical to how well they work. Most high-performing curtains are made from dense fabric, often layered with heavy material such as polyester blends or even mass loaded vinyl. Soundproof curtains are often made from heavy, thick materials like polyester, velvet, or suede.

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Common features include:

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Multiple layers – thicker construction improves sound absorption
Tightly woven fabrics – reduce the amount of sound passing through
Heavy material – helps block sound more effectively than light materials
Thermal insulation properties – also help regulate room temperature
An effective soundproof curtain should be heavy, tightly woven, and run from ceiling to floor.

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Heavier curtains provide better sound insulation because they add mass to the window area.

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These curtains are made to balance sound reduction, thermal insulation, and energy efficiency, making them a practical addition to many spaces. The most effective options, often referred to as sound blocking curtains, use multi-layered construction and technical fabrics to maximise noise reduction.

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Benefits of Sound Absorption

Sound absorption is a key factor in creating a quieter environment, and sound absorbing curtains play a vital role in this process. By absorbing sound waves rather than allowing them to bounce around a room, these curtains help minimise echoes and reduce overall noise levels. This is especially important in spaces where traffic noise, voices, or even the rumble of heavy machinery can disrupt daily life or sleep quality.

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Sound absorbing curtains are particularly effective at tackling high frequency sounds, such as conversations or street noise, which are more easily absorbed by dense materials. However, with the use of advanced fabrics and materials like mass loaded vinyl, these curtains can also help reduce low frequency sounds, such as the deep vibrations from heavy machinery or distant thunder. The result is a significant reduction in both sharp and rumbling noises, making your space noticeably quieter.

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The benefits of sound absorption extend beyond just noise reduction. By dampening sound, these curtains can improve sleep quality, boost productivity, and create a more peaceful atmosphere at home or in the office. Whether you’re trying to block out the sounds of a busy street or reduce internal noise, sound absorbing curtains made from dense materials offer a practical and effective solution for managing unwanted sound.

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Reducing noise in the workplace

But do soundproof curtains work in the office? Cutting out external noise by using soundproof windows or indeed a material covering can make a big difference to the success of a business and the welfare and wellbeing of the people employed. Typical office workers frequently experience reduced concentration levels, with up to up to 60% of employees in a recent survey saying they were distracted by office noise. In high-decibel level environments, such as manufacturing, there is also a danger of hearing loss.

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Do Noise Cancelling Curtains Work for Reducing Noise?

Grey noise canceling curtains covering an open space room

Do noise cancelling curtains work for reducing noise? Yes – but with realistic expectations. They can provide significant noise reduction, particularly for everyday sounds like traffic noise, voices, and general outside noise. However, they do not fully block sound.

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In most cases, you can expect a noticeable drop in decibel level, rather than complete silence. Soundproof curtains can block anywhere from 20% to 50% of incoming noise. This can still make a huge difference to workday focus, comfort and – ultimately – sleep quality.

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Noise canceling curtains work best when:

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The external noise source is present, such as a busy road or street activity
The sound is mid to high frequency
The curtains fully cover the window area and seal gaps

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They are less effective when dealing with low frequency noises or structural sound transmission through walls, floors, or ceilings.

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Types of Noise They Reduce Best

Noise reducing curtains are particularly effective at handling certain types of sound:

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Traffic noise from cars and pedestrians
Voices and conversations
Higher sounds such as televisions or music
General ambient noise from outside

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These sounds are easier to absorb because they operate at higher frequencies. Acoustic curtains can absorb sound waves in this range more efficiently.

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What Noise Cancelling Curtains Cannot Block

There is also a flip side. Noise cancelling curtains cannot fully block:

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Low frequency sounds such as bass or heavy machinery
Vibrations travelling through walls or floors
Internal noise from adjacent rooms: While curtains can help absorb some inside noise and reduce reverberation within a room, their ability to block internal or inside noise from adjacent rooms is limited.
Loud, sudden sounds with high energy

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Low frequency sounds pass through dense materials more easily. This is why soundproof curtains work only up to a point – they are not a complete soundproofing solution.

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Where Noise Cancelling Curtains Work Best

Glass-walled meeting rooms with orange acoustic curtains for privacy in an open office

Noise cancelling curtains work best in environments where the primary noise source comes through windows or open spaces. Placement and room layout play a major role in their effectiveness.

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You will see the most benefit in:

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Rooms facing a busy road
Spaces with single pane windows
Areas where outside noise is the main issue (especially high frequency sounds)
Rooms with hard surfaces that reflect sound

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While soundproof curtains are effective at reducing noise, their dense materials and multiple layers can make a room darker. It's important to consider the impact on natural light when choosing and placing them to maintain a brighter, more comfortable environment.

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In these situations, curtains can both reduce incoming noise and improve internal acoustics by reducing echoes.

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Using Noise Cancelling Curtains in Bedrooms and Apartments

In bedrooms and apartments, noise cancelling curtains can improve sleep quality by reducing noise coming from outside.

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They are particularly useful for:

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Blocking noise from a busy road
Reducing disturbances from noisy neighbors
Creating a quieter environment for rest

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When installed correctly over the entire window and window frame, they can bring peace and noticeably reduce noise levels.

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Noise Cancelling Curtains for Home Offices

For home offices, curtains can help create a more focused environment. They reduce outside noise and absorb internal noise, making it easier to concentrate.

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This is especially useful for:

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Remote workers dealing with background noise
Calls and meetings where clarity matters
Reducing distractions in shared living spaces

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However, they will not fully isolate sound – they simply reduce noise rather than eliminate it.

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Noise Cancelling Curtains in Office Environments

In office settings, noise cancelling curtains can help manage echo and moderate noise levels. They are often used in open-plan offices to soften sound and reduce reflections.

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They can:

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Reduce echoes and improve speech clarity
Lower ambient noise levels
Create more comfortable working conditions

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Employers and office managers are increasingly aware of the commercial benefits of maintaining acceptable noise levels in the workplace. They understand that, while useful, curtains alone are rarely enough for busy offices. In many cases, more advanced acoustic solutions are needed, which has led to a dramatic increase in other noise control measures, such as the installation of soundproof booths.

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Factors That Affect How Well Noise Cancelling Curtains Work

Several factors determine how effective noise cancelling curtains will be. Simply hanging curtains is not enough – performance depends on material, installation, and room conditions.

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The most important factors include:

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Curtain thickness and density
Proper installation and coverage
Room layout and sound paths

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Each of these plays a role in how much sound is absorbed or allowed to pass through.

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Curtain Thickness and Density

Thicker curtains made from dense materials absorb more sound. Heavier curtains with multiple layers (such as blackout curtains) provide better sound insulation than lightweight options. Key points include:

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Dense fabric improves sound absorption
Heavy material helps block sound more effectively
Thicker curtains deliver greater noise reduction

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Light materials, by contrast, allow sound waves to pass through more easily.

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Proper Installation and Coverage

Installation is just as important as the material. Curtains must cover the entire window and extend beyond the frame to prevent sound leakage. Best practices include:

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Covering the entire window area
Extending beyond the window frame
Creating a tight seal around edges
Sealing gaps where sound can enter

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Without proper coverage, even the best soundproof drapes will underperform.

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Room Layout and Sound Paths

Sound does not just travel through windows, but also moves through gaps, doors, and reflective surfaces. Factors that reduce effectiveness include:

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Gaps around doors and windows
Hard surfaces that reflect sound
Open layouts that allow sound to travel

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To maximise results, it is important to consider the full path of sound within the room.

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Energy Efficiency and Noise Reduction

Soundproof curtains do more than just reduce noise – they also enhance energy efficiency in your home or office. Thanks to their thermal insulation properties, these curtains help regulate room temperature by minimising heat transfer through windows. This means your space stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer, reducing the need for constant heating or air conditioning.

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By installing soundproof curtains, you not only block outside noise but also create a more comfortable and sustainable indoor environment. The thermal insulation provided by these curtains can lead to noticeable energy savings, making them a cost effective solution for anyone looking to lower utility bills while enjoying a quieter space. For example, using curtains with strong thermal insulation properties can help prevent heat loss during colder months and reduce heat gain when it’s hot outside, all while keeping unwanted noise at bay.

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Combining noise reduction with energy efficiency, soundproof curtains are a smart investment for homeowners and businesses alike. They offer a simple way to improve comfort, reduce noise, and save on energy costs – all with one practical upgrade.

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Alternatives to Noise Cancelling Curtains for Better Noise Control

Two people using soundproof office pods for focused work and private calls

While curtains are useful, they are not always enough. In many cases, combining them with other soundproofing materials leads to better results. Here are three effective alternatives, each offering different benefits:

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Acoustic panels for internal sound control
Acoustic booths for focused work
Dedicated enclosed spaces for maximum noise reduction

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Acoustic Panels and Soundproofing Materials

Acoustic panels are designed to absorb sound within a room. They are more effective than curtains at controlling internal noise and reducing echo. They work by:

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Absorbing sound waves across a wider frequency range
Reducing reflections from walls and ceilings
Improving overall sound quality

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If you want to explore this further, see our article on how to deaden sound in a room.

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Acoustic Booths for Offices and Workspaces

Acoustic booths offer a more complete solution than curtains. They create enclosed spaces designed specifically to block sound and reduce noise levels. For example, a work booth provides:

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Sound insulation for focused work
Privacy for calls and meetings
A consistent, controlled acoustic environment

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This is particularly useful in offices where ambient noise is constant.

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When Dedicated Acoustic Spaces Work Better Than Curtains

There are situations where curtains simply are not enough:

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Open-plan offices with high noise levels
Spaces with heavy machinery or constant noise
Rooms requiring privacy for calls or meetings

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In these cases, enclosed acoustic solutions outperform fabric-based options because they block sound rather than just absorb it.

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Tips for Choosing the Right Curtains

Selecting the right soundproof curtains is essential for achieving significant noise reduction and creating a peaceful environment. Start by choosing curtains made from dense, heavy materials like velvet, suede, or those featuring multiple layers. Thicker curtains are more effective at absorbing sound waves and blocking noise than lighter, single-layer options.

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Size matters too. Make sure your curtains cover the entire window area and extend beyond the window frame to prevent sound from leaking in around the edges. For maximum effectiveness, seal any gaps around the window frame, as even small openings can let noise through. Look for acoustic curtains specifically designed for sound absorption, as these are engineered to deliver significant noise reduction.

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By focusing on dense materials, multiple layers, and proper installation, you can ensure your soundproof curtains provide the best possible results. Not only will this help block noise and absorb sound waves, but it will also improve sleep quality and create a more productive, quieter environment in your home or office.

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Key Takeaways

Noise cancelling curtains reduce noise through sound absorption, not full sound blocking
They work best on higher sounds like voices and traffic, but struggle with low frequency sounds
Proper installation – covering the entire window and sealing gaps – makes a huge difference
They are a cost effective solution but not a substitute for full sound proofing
Combining curtains with other soundproofing materials delivers better results

20–50%

Typical noise reduction from soundproof curtains

60%

Employees distracted by office noise (cited in the article)

Fact-checked finding

In architectural acoustics, absorptive materials work by converting sound energy into heat, reducing overall noise levels in a space.

Source:

Acentech, Acoustic Energy Harvesting

Fact-checked finding

Nearly 70% of global employees feel negatively impacted by office noise, with some choosing to work remotely to escape it.

Source:

Interface Inc. 2019 Workplace Acoustics Study

Conclusion

So – do noise cancelling curtains work? Yes, they do. They reduce noise, absorb sound waves, and create a quieter environment. For many people, they are a cost-effective solution to everyday noise problems.

However, they are not true soundproofing. They will not block sound completely, especially low frequency sounds or structural noise. Their effectiveness depends on material, installation, and the type of noise you are dealing with.

If you want the best results, combine curtains with other soundproofing materials such as acoustic panels or dedicated acoustic spaces. In more demanding environments, solutions like office pods can provide the level of control that curtains alone cannot achieve.

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What to look for

Noise cancelling curtains reduce noise through sound absorption, not full sound blocking
They work best on higher sounds like voices and traffic, but struggle with low frequency sounds
Proper installation – covering the entire window and sealing gaps – makes a huge difference
They are a cost effective solution but not a substitute for full sound proofing
Combining curtains with other soundproofing materials delivers better results

What to avoid

Noise cancelling curtains reduce noise through sound absorption, not full sound blocking
They work best on higher sounds like voices and traffic, but struggle with low frequency sounds
Proper installation – covering the entire window and sealing gaps – makes a huge difference
They are a cost effective solution but not a substitute for full sound proofing
Combining curtains with other soundproofing materials delivers better results

IN THIS ARTICLE

FROM PERSY BOOTHS

Acoustic solutions for open offices

Protect focus zones alongside your breakout areas, no construction needed.

FAQs (NBQs)

They’re a bit like FAQs, but we call them NBQs. No b*** questions. The questions you need to ask to make sure you aregetting value for money.

Do noise cancelling curtains work for blocking outside noise?

Noise cancelling curtains reduce outside noise such as traffic or voices by absorbing sound waves. They do not fully block sound, but they significantly reduce noise levels.

How much noise can noise cancelling curtains actually reduce?

They typically reduce noise by a noticeable margin rather than eliminating it. The exact reduction depends on curtain thickness, material, and installation.

Are noise cancelling curtains the same as soundproof curtains?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but neither provides complete soundproofing. Both absorb sound rather than fully blocking it.

Do noise cancelling curtains work for traffic and street noise?

Yes, they are effective at reducing traffic noise and general street sounds, especially higher frequency noise.

Where should noise cancelling curtains be installed for the best results?

They should cover the entire window, extend beyond the frame, and create a tight seal to minimise sound leakage.

Are noise cancelling curtains effective in offices and workspaces?

They help reduce echo and moderate noise, but in busy offices, additional solutions such as acoustic booths are often required.

Sometimes you just have to get away from the pressure. That's what breakout areas are for – and with the increasing noise and pressure of the modern workplace, it's no wonder they're so popular.

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To give it a formal definition, a breakout area is a dedicated part of the office designed for informal, flexible use. Unlike rows of desks or enclosed meeting rooms, a breakout space offers employees somewhere to step away from their main workspace, relax, talk, and think differently.

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In many offices, especially in the modern workplace, the traditional layout of desks and formal meeting rooms no longer suits the full range of tasks people perform during the working day. At Persy Booths, we see the importance of this every time we visit our customers. Employees need places to focus, collaborate, reset, and share ideas. That is why office breakout areas have become such an important feature of contemporary office space.

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A well designed breakout area supports productivity, employee wellbeing and creativity. It helps teams feel comfortable, stress free and engaged. When planned properly, it can transform the overall workplace environment and reflect the style and culture of the business.

Key Takeaways

A breakout area is a flexible space within the office designed for relaxation, informal meetings and collaboration, separate from desks and formal meeting rooms.
In the modern workplace, breakout spaces help employees move between focused work, teamwork and short breaks more naturally during the working day.
Well planned office breakout areas support employee wellbeing, mental health and productivity by offering comfortable seating, natural light and a change of scene.
Flexible breakout spaces encourage creativity, informal learning and stronger team relationships without the need to book meeting rooms.
Good design matters: layout, soft seating, modular furniture, lighting and acoustics all play a key role in creating a well designed breakout area.
In open plan offices, breakout areas should be supported by acoustic solutions such as office pods and office noise reduction solutions to protect focused work.
When thoughtfully integrated into the wider office space, breakout areas help create a more inviting, productive and balanced work environment.

Breakout Area Meaning and Purpose in the Office

The term “office breakout area” simply refers to a shared space where employees can take a break from desks and spend time in a more relaxed setting. A "breakout room" is similar in meaning, although it can also refer to a semi-enclosed room used for small, informal meetings or quick catch-ups.

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In everyday language, a breakout space is somewhere you can sit, speak freely, and work in a different way. It is usually easily accessible from the main workspace and does not require booking. The purpose is flexibility. People can use it for relaxation, short meetings, collaboration or quiet thinking.

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In open plan offices, where large teams share the same office space, breakout areas provide much-needed variety. They give employees choice about where and how they work during the day, which is key to maintaining focus and motivation.

Open plan office breakout space with sofas and informal seating used for relaxed work and conversation

What Is a Breakout Area or Breakout Room?

So what is a breakout area or breakout room in practical terms?

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It is a space designed with comfort and informality in mind. Unlike traditional meeting rooms, which often feature a boardroom table, screens and structured seating, breakout areas tend to include soft seating, sofas, chairs and sometimes high tables or benches.

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The atmosphere is more inviting and flexible. Comfortable seating, relaxed rules and varied office furniture allow people to sit, rest, unwind or have quick informal meetings without the pressure of a formal setting. A breakout space may include bold colours, wood finishes, good quality lighting and even food or drink facilities.

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The key difference is intent. Meeting rooms are structured and often booked in advance. A breakout area is suitable for spontaneous use, encouraging creativity and conversation without formality.

Team having an informal meeting in a breakout area with sofas and relaxed seating arrangement

Key Uses: Relaxation, Informal Meetings and Idea Generation

Office breakout areas serve multiple practical functions during the working day.

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First, they support relaxation. A short break away from desks helps employees reset, protect mental health and return to focused work feeling refreshed. Even ten minutes in a lounge-style space can make a difference.

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Second, they are ideal for informal meetings. Instead of booking meeting rooms for every quick discussion, team members can gather in a breakout space to speak openly and share updates. This flexible breakout spaces approach saves time and helps maintain productivity.

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Third, breakout areas encourage idea generation. When employees move away from the main workspace and sit in a more relaxed setting, creativity often improves. The change of scene, natural light and inviting breakout furniture create a setting that suits brainstorming and collaboration.

Benefits of Office Breakout Areas for Employees and Teams

The importance of office breakout areas goes beyond aesthetics. They contribute directly to a healthier and more productive workplace.

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A well designed breakout area supports employee wellbeing, strengthens team relationships and improves overall engagement. In many offices, the presence of flexible breakout spaces signals a shift in how business leaders think about work. It shows recognition that employees are not machines tied to desks, but people who need variety and comfort.

Wellbeing, Healthy Work and Reduced Stress

Breakout areas provide a valuable change of scene. Stepping away from screens and the main workspace gives employees permission to take a break and relax.

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This small shift can have a positive impact on mental health. When people feel comfortable in their office environment, they are more likely to feel stress free and supported. Soft, comfortable seating and access to natural light both contribute to a healthier workspace. Relaxation does not mean losing productivity. On the contrary, short breaks in a breakout area can improve focus and make the working day more sustainable. Employees who can unwind and reset are more likely to return to their desks feeling productive and engaged. Recent research from the World Green Building Council shows that thoughtfully designed office environments that prioritise wellbeing can measurably improve productivity and employee health.

Employee taking a short break in a breakout area with plants and natural light in an open office

Collaboration, Informal Learning and Employee Engagement

Breakout spaces are also powerful tools for collaboration.

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In open office layouts, employees may hesitate to speak freely at desks due to office distractions or concerns about disturbing others. A breakout area offers a more suitable space to talk, share ideas and build relationships.

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Informal learning often happens in these settings. Team members exchange insights, solve problems together and develop new ideas in a relaxed environment. Research from CBRE’s 2026 Workplace & Occupancy Benchmarking Program shows that a majority of employees cite collaboration and connection with colleagues as primary reasons they come into the office, underscoring the value of spaces that support spontaneous interactions.

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This strengthens workplace culture and improves communication across the business. When employees have access to a perfect breakout space that feels inviting and practical, they are more likely to spend time together, strengthening bonds within the team. Over time, this contributes to higher engagement and a more positive workplace.

Designing Effective Breakout Spaces in Offices

Creating an effective breakout area requires careful planning. It is not simply about adding sofas to an office. The layout, furniture, lighting and acoustics must all suit how people actually use the space.

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The goal is to create a versatile and flexible area that complements the main workspace without disrupting focused work nearby.

Layout, Soft Seating and Modular Furniture

Position the breakout space so it is easily accessible but clearly separated from desks. This visual and physical distinction helps employees switch modes from focused work to relaxation or collaboration.

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Soft seating is essential. Sofas, chairs and comfortable seating options encourage people to sit back and unwind. Modular furniture is particularly useful, as it allows teams to reconfigure the space depending on the task. Modular solutions can be moved to accommodate small meetings, solo work or larger group discussions.

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Incorporate high tables, benches and a range of seating types to suit different preferences. Some employees may prefer to sit upright at high tables, while others choose lounge-style sofas. Good quality lighting and access to natural light will make the breakout area more inviting.

Zoning for Quiet Time, Social Space and Games Rooms

In larger offices, it is helpful to create distinct zones within office breakout areas.

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For example, one zone may be designed for quiet time, with comfortable seating and minimal distractions. Another may act as a social space with high tables and bold colours to encourage conversation. A third might function as a games room for team bonding and relaxation.

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In open plan settings, breakout areas often sit alongside those focused work zones. This is often known as the concept of a collaborative workspace, with businesses exploring the shift from traditional layouts to a more adaptable model. These focused work zones allow teams to move easily between open collaboration and enclosed concentration as needed. However, to ensure that ambient noise from more "social" breakout spaces doesn't distract others, companies often turn to solutions such as a work booth, private office pods and portable meeting rooms to protect focus while maintaining a flexible office space. These private booths vary mainly by size and function:

soundproof phone booth – for solo work or private calls
two person phone booth – for confidential, two-person discussions
team meeting booth – ideal for smaller groups to collaborate in

Open office layout showing breakout seating, collaborative zones, and quiet work areas

Breakout Areas, Office Acoustics and Noise Management

In open plan offices, breakout areas must be carefully integrated into the wider environment. Without proper planning, conversations and games can raise the overall office noise level and disrupt focused work.

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Understanding the impact of an open office layout is crucial when designing breakout areas that suit different team needs.

Keeping Breakout Areas Comfortable Without Disturbing Others

To maintain balance, consider the location of the breakout area relative to desks and quiet zones. Position it away from the most focus-intensive parts of the office.

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Use materials that absorb sound, such as upholstered furniture, wood finishes and soft surfaces. These practical choices help manage the office noise level and reduce distractions.

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Employers should also explore office noise reduction solutions to ensure that breakout spaces do not negatively impact the wider workspace. In some cases, installing a white noise machine can help mask background conversations and maintain a productive environment.

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Being aware of common office distractions allows businesses to create zones that suit different working styles.

Using Booths, Pods and Sound Solutions Around Breakout Spaces

To support both collaboration and focus, combine breakout areas with enclosed solutions.

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A nearby soundproof phone booth or two person phone booth can give employees a private space for calls, while private office pods provide a suitable setting for deep, focused work. A work booth positioned close to the breakout area can offer quick transitions between relaxation and concentration.

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Monitoring usage with a room occupancy sensor helps businesses understand how breakout spaces and booths are used throughout the working day. This practical data supports better space planning over time.

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When designed thoughtfully, breakout spaces and acoustic solutions work together to create a balanced open office that supports both collaboration and productivity.

Person taking a call inside a soundproof office booth near an open workspace

Real-world Office Breakout Area Examples and Ideas

Breakout areas can reflect company culture and business priorities. The design should suit the style, team structure and values of the organisation.

Relaxed Lounge-style Breakout Areas

A lounge-style breakout area might include sofas, soft seating, low tables and plants. Warm lighting, wood finishes and comfortable chairs create a calm, inviting feel.

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This type of space is ideal for relaxation, informal chats and solo breaks. Employees can sit, rest and unwind in a calm environment that supports mental health and wellbeing.

Activity and Games-focused Breakout Spaces

Some businesses choose a more energetic approach. A games room style breakout space might feature high tables, benches and activity zones.

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This example works well for creative teams that benefit from movement and social interaction. The key is to maintain a respectful environment where fun supports, rather than undermines, productivity.

Multi-purpose Breakout Corners Next to Collaborative Workspaces

In smaller offices, a compact breakout corner placed next to a collaborative workspace can act as an overflow area before or after meetings.

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These flexible breakout spaces may include modular furniture, screens for quick presentations and comfortable seating for small groups – all useful elements when planning coworking ideas. Positioned near meeting rooms but distinct from desks, they provide a versatile solution for quick huddles.

Are you ready to break out?

Given all the advantages, it's little wonder that breakout areas are found in most modern offices. But, if they are not already in place, companies still have to find the budget to do it.

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The good news is that it does not need to be expensive. We're proud of the fact that Persy Booths, for example, provide high-quality soundproof booths without a hefty price tag (especially since we sell direct and cut out the reseller markup). Also bear in mind that many of the other elements that go into making these zones both desirable and effective are inexpensive.

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The truth is that employees appreciate them and most companies can easily justify them and benefit from them – break out areas do not have to break the bank.

FAQs

What Is the Difference Between a Breakout Area and a Meeting Room?

A breakout area is informal, flexible and usually unbooked. It features comfortable seating and supports spontaneous conversations. Meeting rooms are structured, often enclosed and typically booked in advance. They are designed for productive, scheduled discussions and formal presentations.

How Much Space Should Be Given to Breakout Areas?

There is no fixed rule. In many offices, breakout areas account for a meaningful proportion of total office space, especially in flexible office space environments.

The right amount depends on team size, working style and culture. The goal is to create enough zones to accommodate collaboration and relaxation without compromising focused work.

Do Breakout Spaces Really Improve Productivity?

Yes, when they are well planned. A well designed breakout area gives employees choice. It allows them to take a break, share ideas and reset before returning to focused tasks. This balance between collaboration, relaxation and concentration supports long-term productivity and a more engaged workforce.

In today’s modern workplace, breakout areas are no longer optional extras. They are a practical, human-centred solution that helps create a more flexible, inviting and productive office environment.