Soundproofing vs Sound Absorption – What’s the Difference?

|Graeme Winship

Koala Wall and Room Acoustic Panels

In today’s modern open-plan offices, classrooms, and shared spaces, managing sound effectively is more important than ever. At That’s My Office, we help clients improve their environments through our Koala range of PET acoustic panels – offering both function and style for any workspace.

acosutic wall panels and office screens

Understanding the Difference

Soundproofing is designed to prevent sound from entering or leaving a room. It’s a physical barrier that stops noise transmission.

Sound absorption, on the other hand, improves the acoustics within a space. It reduces reverberation and echo, making it easier to hear conversations or presentations without distractions.

sound proofing and sound absorption

When Do You Need Sound Absorption?

If your office, classroom, or conference room suffers from echo or poor audio clarity, then sound absorption is the answer. This is where our Koala Acoustic Wall Panels, Ceiling Panels, and Room Dividers shine.

  • Wall Panels: Ideal for reducing echo and adding visual appeal.
  • Ceiling Panels: Absorb sound in high-ceiling spaces like halls or collaborative zones.
  • Room Dividers: Create quiet zones in open offices while also reducing noise.

What Are Koala Acoustic Panels Made From?

recycled and environmentally sustainable office screens and furniture

All our Koala acoustic solutions are made from PET (polyethylene terephthalate), a sustainable material derived from recycled plastic bottles. These panels are lightweight, durable, and effective at absorbing sound. Better yet, they’re available in a range of colours, sizes, and patterns to suit your brand or décor.

Benefits of Koala Acoustic Products:

  • Manufactured from 100% recycled PET
  • Excellent sound absorption properties
  • Flexible installation – wall-mounted, suspended, or freestanding
  • Customisable shapes and sizes
  • Ideal for offices, schools, healthcare and shared spaces

Does Sound Absorption Make a Room Quieter?

Yes – by reducing echo and controlling reverberation, sound absorption improves clarity and creates a calmer, quieter environment. However, it doesn’t block sound from entering or exiting the space. That’s where soundproofing is needed.

Which One Do You Need?

Choose sound absorption if your space has an echo, poor sound clarity, or high background noise.

Choose soundproofing if you need to stop sound travelling between rooms – such as in a meeting room next to a quiet workspace or a music studio.

Explore Our Koala Acoustic Range

Whether you need acoustic wall panels, ceiling baffles, or stylish room dividers, our Koala acoustic collection offers a smart and sustainable solution for reducing noise and improving comfort.

View Koala Acoustic Products

That’s My Office – helping you build quieter, more productive workspaces with sustainable acoustic solutions.

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