How does moss affect office acoustics? Modern offices face the challenge of creating a work environment that supports employee productivity, concentration, and well-being. In an era of open-plan offices, where noise and a lack of privacy are commonplace, natural and aesthetic solutions are gaining importance. One of the most effective elements of biophilic design is stabilized moss – not only visually appealing but also functional.
Stabilized moss improves office acoustics, reduces noise, and supports employee concentration—without the need for watering or maintenance. Its structure absorbs sound waves and improves work comfort in open-plan spaces.
Why are acoustics crucial in office spaces?
office acoustics lead to decreased productivity, increased fatigue, and increased error rates. Employees are more likely to report irritability, difficulty concentrating, and withdrawal from teamwork.
open- plan offices, background noise often exceeds 55–60 dB. This level is comparable to street traffic. Phone calls, meetings, and the sounds of keyboards and devices can significantly impede concentration.
Research shows that improving acoustics by just 5 dB increases mental performance by 15–20%. This means that a small interior design change can have a real impact on team productivity.
That is why it is so important to implement sound-absorbing materials – such as stabilized moss.
How does moss affect acoustics?
Stabilized moss acts as a natural sound absorber, absorbing acoustic waves and reducing reverberation. In laboratory tests, lichen moss demonstrates a sound absorption coefficient of up to 0.96 in the mid-frequency range.
For comparison, standard plastic wall panels have coefficients in the range of 0.4–0.6. Moss significantly outperforms them, while also looking much more natural and aesthetically pleasing.
Noise reduction isn't just about "soundproofing." It also involves eliminating sound reflections and reverberations, which intensify the perception of noise. Moss, thanks to its structure, works most effectively in this area.
What types of moss have the best effect on acoustics?
Three types of stabilized moss are best for improving acoustics:
- Reindeer moss – high sound absorption, large absorption surface, soft texture. Ideal for covering large walls and creating logos.
- Cushion moss – a three-dimensional shape with an irregular texture – is ideal for damping mid- and high-frequency sounds. Often used in ceiling panels.
- Flat moss – a good complement when combined with other types, it provides an even finish and basic insulation. It works well in entrance areas and stairwells.
The combination of different types of moss increases the efficiency of the entire acoustic surface and improves its aesthetic value.
Other properties worth mentioning include: moss doesn't attract dust, doesn't grow mold, and doesn't emit volatile organic compounds. Therefore, it's allergy-friendly and safe for any space.
How does moss support employee concentration?
Silence and limited noise in the office promote concentration, reduce stress, and improve work quality. Moss, by dampening noise, creates a more favorable environment for work requiring concentration.
Studies show that office workers exposed to constant noise (over 50 dB) make, on average, 23% more errors than those in quiet environments. Acoustic plants like moss counteract this phenomenon.
Moreover, visual contact with greenery—even artificial or stabilized—has a calming effect. Our experience shows that green moss walls create visual balance and reduce screen fatigue.
Additionally, they create a sense of nature's presence, which translates into improved mood and reduced tension. As a result, employees are more focused, calm, and productive.
Where should you use moss in your office to improve acoustics?
The best results are achieved by placing moss on large vertical and horizontal surfaces.
Recommended locations:
- Open space walls (e.g. behind workstations);
- Walls in conference rooms and meeting rooms;
- Ceiling panels (above relaxation areas and dining areas);
- Partitions between desks (as green "walls");
- Column and pier casings (to reduce reflections);
- Telephone booths and individual work rooms.
It's also worth considering moss as a visual identity element. A green moss company logo can serve both a decorative and acoustic function – something we often recommend to our clients in the IT and financial sectors.
Is investing in moss worth it?
Yes – investing in stabilized moss panels is a long-term solution that combines aesthetic, health and organizational functions.
Unlike traditional acoustic panels, moss requires no maintenance, doesn't fade, and doesn't lose its properties for many years. In practice, a well-designed installation can last 8–10 years.
Companies that have incorporated moss into their offices report improved team satisfaction, reduced noise complaints, and a more attractive space for recruiting.
Summary
Stabilized moss is an effective tool for improving acoustics and concentration in modern offices. It is maintenance-free, durable, and aesthetically pleasing, making it an ideal choice for companies concerned with workplace comfort.
It reduces noise, supports concentration, creates a calm atmosphere, and fosters creativity. It's an investment in team well-being and improves the quality of daily work.
Want to learn more? Contact a Vikingmoss consultant and see how moss can transform your office.
Hi, my name is Marian Sikora and I am the founder of the company Sikorka and Vikingmoss in which since 2018 we have been producing wooden maps of the world on the wall and moss walls. My comprehensive experience and qualification allowed you to achieve success. I started my professional path in the IT industry, where for many years I dealt with creating websites, graphic design, programming and implementation of marketing campaigns. Over time, however, I wanted to change and decided to transfer my passion for creating into a more tangible one.
