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15 Practical Ideas for Noise Control in Open Plans

Check Out the Floor-to-Ceiling Bookshelves Enhancing This Quiet Space
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Open-plan homes are spacious and visually appealing, but they often come with the challenge of managing noise. Echoes and sound carry easily across large areas, making it harder to create peaceful spaces. These practical ideas will help you control noise while maintaining a stylish and functional layout. From adding soft textures to incorporating clever design elements, these solutions will make your open-plan space both quieter and more comfortable.

Soften Floors with Plush Area Rugs

Create a Relaxed Reading Nook With Built-In Bookshelves
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Plush area rugs help reduce noise by absorbing sound that bounces off hard floors in open spaces. They create a quieter environment while adding warmth and texture to the room. Opt for thick rugs with dense fibers to maximize their noise-dampening effects.

Install Stylish Acoustic Ceiling Panels

Notice the Unique Coffered Ceiling Enhancing This Spacious Living Room
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Acoustic ceiling panels are a practical way to control noise in open plans while maintaining a modern look. These panels absorb sound waves that typically echo in large spaces, creating a more pleasant atmosphere. Choose sleek designs or panels that blend seamlessly with your decor for a functional yet stylish solution.

Divide Spaces with Tall Bookcases

Maximize Quiet Spaces With Expansive Built-In Bookshelves
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Tall bookcases act as sound barriers, breaking up open floor plans and reducing noise from different areas. The books and shelving absorb sound, while the structure creates defined zones for better acoustics. A well-organized bookcase also adds character and functionality to the space.

Drape Heavy Curtains Over Windows

Layered Curtains Add Elegance and Function to Your Living Space
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Heavy curtains over windows block external noise and reduce echo inside open spaces. Opt for materials like velvet or thickly lined drapes to absorb sound effectively. These curtains also enhance privacy and add a touch of elegance to the room.

Use Large Indoor Plants to Absorb Sound

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Large indoor plants, like the one pictured, are an excellent solution for reducing noise in open floor plans. Their dense foliage absorbs sound waves, minimizing echoes and creating a calmer atmosphere. Strategically placing these plants between different zones not only helps with noise control but also adds a natural, stylish element to the space.

Hang Canvas Wall Art

Notice the Chic Acoustic Panels in This Modern Multifunctional Space
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Enhance sound absorption in your home with stylish acoustic panels like these that double as art pieces. This open-plan living area seamlessly integrates a cozy seating nook with a dining space and compact kitchen. The blend of neutral tones and greenery creates a calm and organized environment, ideal for efficient living.

Choose Plush Upholstered Furniture

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Plush upholstered furniture absorbs sound and minimizes echo, making open spaces feel quieter. Sofas, chairs, and ottomans covered in soft fabrics like velvet or chenille add a cozy touch while improving acoustics. These pieces also contribute to a comfortable, inviting atmosphere.

Create Quiet Corners with Soft Textiles

Create a Plush Corner with Layered Cushions for an Instant Hideaway
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Soft textiles and throw pillows help control noise by reducing echo in quiet corners of open spaces. Layering cushions and blankets creates cozy, sound-absorbing zones for relaxation or reading. These elements add color and texture, enhancing both style and comfort.

Use Sliding Doors for Flexibility

Optimize Privacy and Style With Sliding Glass Doors
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Sliding doors provide a flexible way to divide open spaces and control noise when needed. Glass or frosted options maintain an airy feel while reducing sound transfer between areas. These doors are practical for creating quieter zones without permanently closing off the layout.

Install Natural Cork Flooring

Enhance Privacy and Style With Elegant Floor-Length Curtains
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Cork flooring is a sustainable choice for noise control, as it absorbs sound and reduces impact noise. Its natural texture adds warmth to open spaces while improving acoustics. Cork is also durable and easy to maintain, making it an ideal flooring option for busy households.

Use Decorative Room Screens

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Decorative room screens divide spaces and block noise while maintaining an open plan’s flexibility. Their materials, such as wood or fabric, absorb sound and reduce echo. Choose screens with intricate designs to add a stylish element that complements the room’s aesthetic.

Hang Thick Tapestries on Walls

Enhance Your Living Room Acoustics With Wall Tapestries
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Thick tapestries on walls absorb sound waves and reduce echo in large open areas. They provide a functional yet decorative solution, bringing texture and color to the space. Hanging them near noisy zones, like kitchens or entertainment areas, can help control sound more effectively.

Lay Sound-Dampening Underlayment

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Installing sound-dampening underlayment beneath flooring reduces impact noise and improves acoustics. This material works well with hardwood, laminate, or tile floors, making it versatile for open plans. It’s a subtle yet effective way to maintain a quieter space without altering the room’s design.

Use Decorative Acoustic Tiles

Transform Your Space With Bold Acoustic Panels and Colorful Patterns
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Decorative acoustic tiles absorb sound and enhance the design of open floor plans. These tiles come in various colors and patterns, allowing you to create a stylish focal point while managing noise. Install them in high-echo areas to significantly improve sound quality.

Cover Tables with Thick Textiles

Illuminate Your Dining Experience With Built-In Shelf Lighting
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Covering tables with thick textiles, like tablecloths or runners, helps absorb sound from clattering dishes or items being placed down. This is especially useful in dining or work areas within open plans. Textiles also soften the overall look, adding warmth and style to the space.

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