Leveraging Colour Psychology in Office Design

Colour is far more than a decorative choice in the workplace; it can actively influence mood, behaviour, and productivity. For specifiers, interior designers, and architects, understanding how colour shapes experiences is essential when designing offices that support both wellbeing and performance. How Colour Shapes Mood and Behaviour Research in colour psychology shows that different hues […]

How to Achieve Acoustic Comfort in Open-Plan Workspaces

Open-plan workspaces remain a dominant feature of modern office design. They encourage collaboration, flexibility and efficient use of space, but they also introduce one of the most persistent challenges faced by designers and specifiers: noise. Acoustic discomfort is consistently cited as a leading cause of reduced productivity, poor concentration and workplace dissatisfaction. For commercial interior […]

Creative Workspaces: Inspiring Innovation Through Design

In today’s fast-paced commercial environment, workplaces are no longer just spaces for completing tasks—they are environments that shape behaviour, foster collaboration, and influence innovation. Design is at the heart of this shift, with thoughtfully planned creative workspaces increasingly seen as a catalyst for problem-solving and idea generation. Brainstorming Zones: Structured Freedom Spaces dedicated to brainstorming […]

Acoustics in the Hospitality Industry

Creating Memorable Guest Experiences In hospitality, experience is everything. Whether it’s a restaurant, boutique hotel, or event space, people remember how a place made them feel, and sound is one of the most powerful (and overlooked) elements shaping that emotional response. Great acoustics don’t just reduce noise; they influence atmosphere, comfort, behaviour, and even revenue. For […]

The Hybrid Office: Balancing Remote and In‑Person Work

The shift to hybrid work has fundamentally changed how offices are used. Gone are the days when every square metre had to be planned for 100% occupancy. Instead, workplaces now need to be flexible: supportive of heads‑down, deep work for individuals who come in for focus days; adaptable for dynamic team collaboration; and safe and […]

Commercial Acoustic Trends 2026

A Soundscape That Works As workplaces evolve, so too does the way we manage sound. Commercial interiors are increasingly recognising that acoustics are not just functional; they’re an integral part of the experience, design, and wellbeing of occupants. At ekko acoustics, we’ve been tracking what’s really happening on the ground, and here’s what’s emerging. Acoustics […]

Incorporating Brand Identity into Office Design

In a world where businesses compete not only for customers but also for talent, an office is more than a place to work; it’s a physical expression of a company’s culture, values, and creativity. The most memorable workplaces are those that seamlessly blend brand identity into their design, creating spaces that feel authentic, inspiring, and […]

Choosing the Right Acoustic Solutions for Different Sectors

No two spaces sound alike. A busy open-plan office doesn’t behave acoustically like a restaurant, and a classroom presents challenges that a retail store never will. That’s why there is no such thing as a “one size fits all” acoustic product. Each sector demands tailored solutions, chosen not just for their performance, but for how […]

The Role of Lighting in Modern Office Design

Lighting has always been central to the way we experience space. In modern office design, however, it plays a far more complex role than simply “making things visible.” Today, lighting is expected to enhance productivity, support employee wellbeing, align with sustainability goals, and even contribute to the acoustic performance of a space. When thoughtfully integrated, […]

Acoustic Standards and Measurable Design for Commercial Interiors

When designing commercial spaces — from open-plan offices to coworking lounges and client-facing showrooms — acoustics can’t be left to chance. Good design is measurable, and acoustic performance is no exception. In this instalment, we’ll explore the science behind acoustic standards, the role of reverberation time, and the measurable targets that designers and specifiers should […]