Open Plan Offices

Open plan offices are great for collaboration in theory, but the reality can be chaotic. Background noise, lack of private spaces, confidential conversations happening in the open, and a complete free-for-all on desk availability quickly turn a modern workspace into a distraction factory. AV technology can bring order back to the floor and help teams work more efficiently, even when space is limited.

At Universal AV, we design and integrate systems that solve the practical issues that open plan layouts create. From intelligent audio systems that reduce noise spill to desk booking platforms that stop turf wars, we make shared office spaces work smoothly without compromising collaboration.

What is an Open Plan Office?

An open plan office brings teams together in a shared space without partitioned rooms, encouraging movement, collaboration, and flexibility. The challenge is balancing that openness with privacy, focus and access to meeting spaces.

Modern workplaces need to support hybrid attendance, private calls, confidential discussions, and focused deep work, all while making use of smaller footprints and reducing unused space. AV plays a central role in creating spaces that are adaptable rather than chaotic.

Key Problems in Open Plan Offices (and How AV Fixes Them)

Too much noise and no privacy
Sound masking systems and acoustically optimised microphones reduce background noise and stop every conversation becoming a public broadcast.

Not enough meeting spaces
Compact huddle pods with integrated video conferencing create private rooms without building new walls.

Hybrid calls happening in the middle of the office
Headset solutions, small soundproof booths, and pod-based conferencing systems prevent confidential conversations leaking across the floor.

No desk availability or wasted floor space
Desk booking systems stop people guessing where they should sit and give real-time insight into actual space usage.

Poor communication across large teams
Large format displays and audio distribution systems ensure messages reach the whole floor without shouting.

Open Plan Office AV Solutions

The right technology turns open plan spaces from distracting and chaotic into efficient, connected working environments:

• Better focus and reduced noise – sound masking, acoustic zoning and private AV pods create areas for concentration without rebuilding the office.
• Private communication – booth-based conferencing, headset solutions and directional audio stop sensitive conversations carrying across the floor.
• Hybrid working that actually works – integrated video conferencing ensures remote colleagues feel present, not like background noise on a laptop mic.
• Smarter use of space – desk booking systems and multi-purpose AV areas make every square foot count, reducing wasted floorspace.
• Flexible collaboration – wireless sharing and BYOD setups mean teams can work from any zone, not just a formal meeting room.

Sectors We Work With

We deliver open plan office solutions across many industries, adapting to different needs, contexts and expectations:

Why Choose Universal AV for Your Open Plan Office Solutions?

Every organisation has its own way of working, so every open plan space needs a tailored approach. At Universal AV, we don’t just install equipment — we create environments that feel effortless to use and reflect the professionalism of your organization.

• Solutions designed around how you work, not off-the-shelf templates
• Partnerships with leading manufacturers for reliable, future-ready technology
• Demonstrations and proof-of-concept testing before installation
• Expert integration and training so your teams feel confident from day one

Your open plan office should be more than just a workspace. With the right technology, it becomes a central hub for communication, culture, and connection.

Ready to transform your open plan office? Call us on 01242 00280 or email sales@uniav.com today.