Office environments have a significant impact on the volume of speech among workers, according to a recent study conducted by researchers at Concordia University. Published in the journal Science and Technology for the Built Environment on November 5, 2025, the research highlights how factors such as office layout and the type of communication can influence how loudly employees speak during their workday.
The study examined two active office locations in Montreal and Quebec City, with observations made on over 70 employees conversing in both English and French. Researchers utilized high-precision sound meters to measure speech levels across various settings, including open-plan offices, private offices, and meeting rooms. This hands-on approach provided insights into real-world speaking patterns, contrasting previous findings based on controlled laboratory conditions.
Key Findings on Speech Levels
One of the most notable discoveries was that workers in open-plan offices with partitions tend to speak significantly louder than expected. According to Joonhee Lee, an associate professor in the Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering and the study’s lead author, “When the participants sat at a desk with partitions, they naturally increased their speech level.” This phenomenon suggests that while partitions may help reduce overall noise, they can also lead individuals to feel more comfortable speaking at higher volumes.
In contrast, the study found consistent speech levels in meeting rooms, regardless of their size. Interestingly, teleconferences resulted in slightly louder speaking volumes compared to face-to-face conversations. The researchers also noted that language did not significantly affect speech levels, indicating that the environmental context plays a more critical role.
Implications for Office Design
Perhaps the most striking finding was that actual speech levels in these office environments were lower than those reflected in existing industry standards. Many of these standards are based on tests conducted in anechoic chambers—spaces designed to eliminate sound reflections, making it difficult for speakers to gauge their volume accurately. This disconnect suggests that current guidelines for speech privacy and noise control may need reevaluation to better reflect the realities of workplace communication.
Lee emphasizes the importance of background noise in office settings. “A decrease in background noise only amplifies the perception of other kinds of noise,” he explains. “Some degree of background noise actually helps people perform better.” This insight challenges the notion that silence is always preferable in workspaces.
The findings from this study prompt a reevaluation of how office spaces are designed. By understanding the relationship between environmental factors and speech levels, organizations can create more effective work environments that enhance communication while minimizing distractions. As workplaces continue to evolve, these insights may play a crucial role in shaping future office designs, ultimately benefiting both employees and employers alike.
For more detailed information, the study can be accessed through Science and Technology for the Built Environment, with the DOI reference 10.1080/23744731.2025.2551480.
