The Best Demountable Walls and Sound Proofing Ideas for Your Office

Open-plan office spaces have become increasingly popular among Houston businesses and can help increase collaboration, but they can also create many challenges.

It can be difficult for employees to remain productive and complete tasks in these spaces, especially when they can see and hear everything around them.

From background conversations to phone calls and the sound of constant typing, these seemingly harmless sounds can disrupt concentration and reduce the quality of work.

Fortunately, new office furniture Houston solutions such as demountable walls and various soundproofing ideas have made it possible to create quiet, flexible spaces tailored to work needs.

In this article, we will explore how using a few simple solutions, such as modular demountable walls and sound-absorbing materials, can provide a more balanced and productive environment for employees.

What are demountable walls?

Demountable walls are a type of interior space division system that, unlike traditional walls, are designed as prefabricated and modular.

These walls are made up of components that can be easily installed, moved, or redesigned.

Demountable walls are compatible with a variety of office, commercial, and educational spaces and also coordinate with a variety of interior decorations.

It is also possible to recycle and reuse in other places.

The design of this system is such that it consists of separate modules, so they can easily be increased or decreased, or ordered in different sizes.

The main difference between these types of modular walls and traditional walls is that they can be removed and reinstalled in a new location or combination without destruction.

This feature is very useful for companies that are growing or moving their offices.

Why Use Soundproof Demountable Walls and Partitions?

Using soundproofing solutions in offices has many benefits.

Make your workspace quiet, functional, and customizable with soundproof, removable walls and partitions, without the need for costly construction.

1. Acoustic and Visual Privacy in Open Offices

One of the biggest challenges of open offices is the constant noise and lack of privacy for employees.

Conversations between employees, phone calls, and the noise of office equipment create distractions and reduce productivity.

Demountable walls and partitions equipped with soundproofing materials help create a quieter environment by absorbing sound.

These walls also provide a safer space for private conversations or sensitive activities by creating a visual barrier.

2. Easy Reconfiguration Without Construction

Unlike fixed walls or traditional construction, soundproof demountable walls are modular, meaning they can be easily installed, moved, or redesigned.

You can create a flexible and peaceful environment for your employees without demolition or permanent construction costs.

These soundproofing walls and solutions can be moved and reinstalled in any part of your office, and can be customized as your work needs change and teams grow.

The top brands of removable walls available at COI offer systems that are installed in the shortest possible time and also have very good acoustic performance due to their strong insulation.

3. Creating Quiet Pods, Meeting Areas, Collaboration Zones

In environments with diverse functions, such as open offices, the need for zoning and creating specific spaces becomes more necessary than ever.

Quiet rooms for detailed work, private call booths for business calls, and collaboration spaces are among these divisions, which are easily created with soundproof demountable walls.

4. Cost-Effectiveness in The Long Run

At first glance, the price of these systems may seem a bit higher, but the reusability saves costs in the future.

Also, due to their non-permanent and movable nature, these walls include tax benefits.

5. Design Versatility

The variety in materials and designs of removable walls is very high.

These walls can be produced in different shapes.

Demountable walls include glass, wood, or metal models, and are insulated with coatings such as fabric, MDF, laminate, or a combination of them.

Types of Demountable Walls and Soundproofing Ideas

Several different types of room dividers and partitions can provide varying levels of soundproofing.

That being said, none will completely silence all sounds – even a structural wall allows some sound to pass through.

But in terms of the typical volume of office activities, which is usually low to moderate, soundproof walls and partitions can make a significant difference.

Depending on your products and set-up, you can generally expect dividers and partitions to dampen sounds noticeably in the office.

In addition, the visual privacy they provide also lends itself to improved productivity overall. 

In this section, we will learn about different types of soundproof and demountable walls and partitions, each of which has its own uses and features.

1. Solid Demountable Walls

These demountable walls have a completely closed and opaque structure and offer the best performance in reducing sound transmission.

These walls are made up of prefabricated, durable panels, usually made of materials such as steel, compressed wood, or a combination of these.

Unlike traditional fixed walls, these types of soundproofing ideas can be installed, moved, or rearranged without the need for demolition or construction work.

One of the most important advantages of solid demountable walls is their high performance in reducing sound transmission.

This feature makes solid demountable walls an excellent choice for spaces that require silence or acoustic privacy, such as management offices, human resources rooms, confidential meeting rooms, or focus zones.

These walls can also be designed in a variety of ways in terms of color, coating, texture, and integrated doors, which, in addition to acoustic performance, also contribute to the beauty and harmony of the office space.

2. Upholstered / Acoustical Felt Panels

These types of panels are made of acoustic fabric or felt and are specifically designed to absorb sound.

Upholstered panel is one of the popular soundproofing ideas that has the property of absorbing sound and reducing echoes in open and noisy environments.

Acoustic panels that can be mounted on walls or suspended from the ceiling are also used.

Acoustical felt panels can be used for back walls in workspaces, conference rooms, or noisy common spaces.

3. Glass Demountable Walls

Glass partitions are a popular choice in modern office design, providing a good balance between natural light, aesthetics, and soundproofing.

These modular walls are transparent and modern, but they have poorer sound insulation than solid demountable walls.

Frameless or very narrow frame glass partitions create a minimalist and transparent look.

Some models have double-glazed glass, which is used to reduce sound transmission and increase sound insulation.

Some brands also offer these types of demountable walls with customization capabilities.

Glass partitions are used for meeting rooms, management offices, or logic rooms that require sound control.

4. Movable Partitions

These systems are designed for spaces that require variable and temporary division.

Types of these partitions include the following.

•         Accordion Style
•         Sliding Panels
•         Top-Hung Folding

These partitions function like an accordion and are movable.

They are sometimes called “folding” or “movable” walls.

Features of Top-Hung Folding include a folding structure with the ability to move on a ceiling rail.

Since they can be fully opened or closed when needed, they are suitable for multi-part spaces.

5. Portable Canvas and Desktop Partitions

These types of demountable walls are simpler and lighter and are mostly used to create temporary and limited privacy.

These panels are one of the best soundproofing ideas that can be easily installed on the floor or tables.

These partitions are very effective for separating desks in busy spaces.

Considerations and Criteria for Shopping Soundproof Demountable Walls

Before we look at specific products that excel in this category, let’s review some key features and characteristics you’ll want to be aware of during your search.

1. Acoustic Performance

One of the most important criteria is choosing a demountable wall with an appropriate STC (Sound Transmission Class) rating.

If your goal is to create a completely private space, such as a management office or consulting room, you should look for walls with a higher STC (45 to 55+).

But for public or collaborative spaces, a lower STC (30–40) may be sufficient.

Using special materials such as felt, mass-loaded vinyl, or partitions with internal sealants can have a significant impact on reducing transmitted sound.

2. Materials

You’ll find a wide range of materials to choose from, each one with its own pros and cons. 

Soundproofing demountable walls come in a variety of materials, such as glass, metal, compressed wood, fabric, or a combination of these.

Your choice should be based on your existing interior design, natural light, level of privacy, and appearance preferences.

For example, glass walls are suitable for modern, open spaces, while solid walls create a warmer, quieter feel.

Acrylic is a popular option and is often given a frosted appearance to allow for both privacy and ample light.

Typically, acrylic provides a lower level of soundproofing than other materials.

But if durability and easy cleaning are a major focus, it could be ideal.

If reducing sound is one of your top priorities, look for woven surrounds made with acoustic felt (polyester).

This soft material effectively absorbs and dampens sound and may be available in various colors to suit your aesthetic design.

Many brands also offer a choice of colors, textures, and even sustainable and eco-friendly materials.

3. Portability and Reconfiguration

One of the main advantages of these walls is the ability to move and change the layout without construction.

If your work environment is constantly changing or your company is growing, choosing demountable walls with a modular structure and easy installation can be very useful.

Portable, soundproof room dividers can be easily relocated, so you can reconfigure your office space without repurchasing new products.

Sliding soundproof room dividers often come equipped with a wheeled base so that changes can be made at a moment’s notice.

4. Easy Installation

One of the main advantages of these systems is quick installation without disruption to daily work.

Also, unlike traditional walls, they do not require demolition or building materials.

This feature allows companies to redesign or separate their spaces quickly and with minimal time and implementation costs, without interrupting work activities.

5. Height and Coverage

Demountable walls come in various sizes.

From short panels that sit on the floor or table to full-length partitions that extend to the ceiling and are used to completely separate a space.

The choice of height depends on the level of privacy and acoustics required.

Most free-standing partitions are not completely designed to cover the open space between the floor and ceiling.

On average, partitions are four to six feet tall and five to six feet wide.

Depending on your selected provider, there may be options for customization.

But in general, you’ll want to factor partition size into the planning process.

6. Integration

Before installing the walls and soundproofing ideas, it is important to check whether the chosen system is compatible with existing infrastructure such as HVAC, electrical wiring, lighting, or sensors.

Some more advanced systems also allow for the passage of cables or the installation of electrical and network outlets.

7. Budget and Return on Investment

The initial cost of demountable walls may be higher than traditional walls, but in the long run, they can result in significant savings due to their reusability, reduced installation time, and tax exemptions.

The ability to move these walls to a new office also prevents wastage of capital.

8. Aesthetics and Design

A partition or portable wall design can be one of the most important factors in your decision-making process.

Not only are demountable walls designed to divide space and improve acoustics, they can also play an important role in branding, creating a sense of professionalism, and increasing user comfort.

You want a well-constructed solution designed for durability to make the most of your investment.

However, the aesthetic of a partition is also important. 

Ideally, your selected partitions will be attractive and professional-looking, seamlessly integrating into your overall office design.

Taking advantage of design options such as color makes it easy to tailor the look of your partitions.

There are also acoustic panels and space dividers that put a contemporary spin on a traditional design, so you can create a modern workspace that appeals to employees and clients alike.

The Best Soundproof Partitions and Demountable Walls for Office Spaces

Now that you have a clear idea of what to look for in soundproofing solutions, let’s browse some of the top products currently on the market.

dB Acoustic Partition Walls

The dB series of workstation paneling is a lightweight, sound-absorbing solution that can be configured in nearly limitless ways. Because each panel is equipped with a base rather than standard legs, it can be easily angled to create customized spaces. This flexibility makes the dB partitions especially beneficial in open-concept offices, including those with unique floorplans and limited space.

Another unique characteristic of the dB partitions is the option to select from various materials and styles, including upholstered panels, whiteboard-faced screens, and corkboard-faced screens. Various fabric colors and a diverse range of sizes make this a highly versatile solution.

Bower Acoustic Privacy Paneling

With a modular design that allows for no-hassle assembly and easy customization, the Bower series of privacy paneling and partitions is practical and stylish. The panels’ distinct curves absorb unwanted noise, while the pod-style shape provides added privacy. 

Inspired by the nests of Australia’s bowerbird, the Bower series makes for an eye-catching addition to the office. You can use the privacy paneling to devise individual desktop workspaces or incorporate it with matching armchairs for a more collaborative area. 

Airbloom Acoustic Panels

The Airbloom acoustic panels are designed for suspended installation, hanging from the ceiling or on walls. Multiple panels can be combined with plastic clips and an aluminum rail, producing a sturdy solution that can be easily changed. Perhaps the most notable feature of these soundproofing panels is the molded design, which resembles an abstract floral pattern made from 100% polyester felt fiber.

The Airbloom panels resemble an art installation more closely than a typical office element, but their functionality is second to none. Additional options in this series of acoustic privacy panels include the Aircone, Airflake, and Airleaf designs. 

Comprehensive Soundproofing Ideas Beyond Walls

These soundproofing solutions, alone or in combination with walls, can create a calmer, more professional, and more focused environment.

•         Ceiling Solutions: Ceiling tiles are made of sound-absorbing materials to absorb ambient sound and prevent it from reflecting.

Also, for dropped ceilings or open-plan environments, MLV (Mass Loaded Vinyl) layers or other sound barriers can be used between the suspended ceiling and the main ceiling.

Floating panels or baffles that hang from the ceiling are both aesthetically pleasing and effective in controlling sound echoes in open spaces.

•         Floor Coverings: Using thick rugs and carpets, especially in hallways or high-traffic areas, reduces footfall and echoes.

Another soundproofing solution for hard floors such as parquet or laminate is to install soundproofing layers underneath them, which significantly reduces sound transmission.

•         Wall Insulation with Installation Equipment: Acoustic wall panels include various types of fabric panels, mesh wood, or acoustic foam, which play an important role in sound absorption.

Acoustic foams are also an economical and quick option for covering parts of walls that reflect a lot of sound.

•         Sound Masking Systems: These systems make other sounds less audible by emitting a uniform background sound.

Sound masking is usually used in conjunction with physical insulation to achieve the desired result.

Conclusion

In workplaces where focus, effective interaction, and employee well-being play a fundamental role in the success of organizations, demountable walls and soundproofing solutions are considered one of the most practical and effective choices.

These solutions not only reduce noise and increase audio and visual privacy but also directly impact productivity, reduce stress, and improve the quality of teams’ work.

Also, the use of these systems shows that an effective balance can be achieved between functionality and beauty.

Modern acoustic walls and equipment can, in addition to their technical performance, give the environment a beautiful appearance that is in harmony with the brand identity.

To create a modern and productive office, you can use removable walls and soundproofing solutions at Collaborative Office Interiors and be a winner in the competitive business world.

At Collaborative Office Solutions, we provide smart, stylish products to enhance the form and function of your workspace.

Our selection of soundproofing partitions and dividers includes a wide range of designs, so you can find options that align with your specific needs. From basic desktop privacy screens to full-scale workstation paneling, we have something to suit every office.

Contact our team today for more information about how to soundproof an office using partitions, dividers, and other products.

Photo Credits: Zastolskiy Victor / waii waii

John Ofield

John Ofield is the owner of Collaborative Office Interiors. Houston’s trusted source for premium office furniture, office cubicles, demountable walls, office desks and tables, and complete workspace solutions. With more than 40 years of experience, he combines deep product knowledge with hands-on space-planning expertise to create ergonomic, productivity-focused work environments for businesses across Southeast Texas.