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Why Gen Z Will Demand Better Acoustic Environments at Work and Play

There’s a new generation stepping into the workforce and they’re not quietly slipping in. Gen Z is making noise, and ironically, they want less of it. Born between the mid-90s and early 2010s, Gen Z grew up in a world of AirPods, curated playlists, sensory experiences, and smart everything. They’ve been raised on digital experiences that are personalized, immersive, and hyper-aware of mood and vibe. So, it’s no surprise that when it comes to the physical spaces they work, shop, or socialize in, sound matters more than ever.
So, brands, employers, and designers are going to want to pay attention.

Sound as a Sensory Expectation, Not a Background Detail

 

 

For Gen Z, acoustics aren’t just functional, they’re emotional. In fact, a study by Poly and Future Workplace found that 52% of Gen Z workers say they’re most productive when there’s some level of background noise. This means not total silence, not chaotic buzz, but a curated, ambient sound environment that supports focus without distraction, especially the mitigation of sound generated by noisy co-workers.

Elegant wooden wall panels enhance the aesthetic of a spacious lobby area
This generation has grown up with headphones on, playlists tailored to every mood, and an appreciation for sonic environments that enhance rather than detract. So, when physical spaces, whether an office, a retail space, or a lounge, fail to consider sound design, Gen Z feels it instantly.

That’s where design-forward acoustic materials like EzoBord’s Tac Panels, Office Dividers and Ceiling Systems provide sound-proof assistance. These aren’t your average dull-gray noise blockers. They’re customizable, colorful, and built to look as good as they sound fitting seamlessly into the curated, branded environments Gen Z values.

From the Office to the Lounge: Sound Design Follows Them Everywhere

A reception desk set against a green wall with acoustic panels for improved acoustics.
Gen Z doesn’t believe in hard boundaries between work and life; it’s all one experience. That’s why acoustic expectations follow them:

  • In offices, they want spaces that shift from focus-friendly zones to creative collab areas – often in the same day.
  • In cafés, lounges, and stores, they’re drawn to places where they can actually hear their conversations, without background clatter.
  • In campuses and co-working spaces, they expect areas to be acoustically zoned, intuitively designed, and aesthetically pleasing.

Solutions like EzoBord’s Ceiling Baffles or Modular Ceiling designs are being used in flexible environments where form meets function, softening noise while adding visual interest and energy.

Acoustics = Wellness = Retention

Evidence shows employees who feel their well‑being and recognition are supported at work are significantly less likely to look for opportunities elsewhere, revealing the value of thoughtful workplace design and experience.

Whether it’s Work Zone Dividers that create visual and acoustic boundaries or Wall Panels that double as art and sound control, EzoBord products help organizations design for performance and wellness which is something Gen Z expects by default.

Ejemplo

Designing for What’s Next

This isn’t just about chasing trends. It’s about designing spaces that actually feel good to be in, and Gen Z is just the beginning. As we all become more attuned to how our environments affect us, acoustics are rising from the background into the spotlight.
Gen Z is loud about what they want. Ironically, it starts with creating quieter, better-sounding spaces.