In the last issue of YourSpace we discussed the need for visual privacy in the work place and how creative design can fulfill that need. However, research has also shown that conversational and other uncontrollable noises such as: phones, printers, keyboards and conversation are the primary cause of productivity loss in an open office environment. In addition to distracting your Associates, the lack of acoustical privacy can increase error rates, stress and headaches which, in turn, contribute to absenteeism, illness and turnover.
This Issue – Acoustical Privacy
The intent of including acoustical elements in a new design or renovation is not to eliminate all work force sounds, but to reduce significant or offending noises that disrupt work flow. If we focus only on the conversational noise within an office, there are three levels to be aware of:
- Confidential Privacy is when an Associate is able to overhear a conversation but it is not understandable.
- Non-intrusive Privacy suggests that an Associate can make out words or sentences but the message is not completely understood.
- Poor Privacy is when an Associate can not only overhear words and sentences but fully understand the message. This is a distraction because the Associate is listening whether they want to or not.
When planning a new design or renovation, not only should the visual privacy within the office environment be considered but so to should acoustical privacy. You and your design professional can consider the following buffering devices when planning your space:
Components – The materials used in open office environments should have high noise reduction coefficients (NRC) so as to transmit and reflect as little noise as possible.
Ceilings – Often considered the most important acoustical element in an open office, ceilings play an important role in absorbing noise. The amount of noise reflected off of a ceiling is in direct proportion to the number and size of the lighting fixtures. More “task” lighting could be a consideration.
Partitions - Acoustical panels should be a minimum of 5’ high and 8’ feet wide. These dimensions are critical, because when your Associates are seated their mouths are approximately 44 inches off of the floor. Anything less than a 5’ panel provides a direct path from one workstation to another.
For more information contact leighann.turner@mvg.com
It’s autumn already and there are some “to do’s” that should be completed to prepare your lawn and landscape for the winter season. Not only will this maintenance prepare your landscape for the winter but it will make your springtime landscaping easier.
Fall Landscaping Tips
The following are some helpful hints for preparing your commercial and home property for the cold season:
- Fall is the best time of year to plant trees, shrubs and grass seed. Be sure to initially soak what you plant and then nature should take it from there. When installing any new plants be sure to: dig an oversize hole, loosen up the soil, add soil amendments (peat moss, manure, topsoil), and break up the roots a bit to stimulate them to take hold.
- This time of year, turf fertilization is most beneficial to your lawn’s health. Always remember to be conservative when applying fertilizer. Too much Nitrogen will burn your turf. Be sure to slightly overlap when applying fertilizer to avoid dark green stripes in your lawn. Dropping your application rate in half but applying the fertilizer in a crisscross pattern is a good way to avoid noticeable patterns. Always load your spreader on a driveway or patio in case of spills.
- Fall is also a good time to aerate the lawn. Aerators can be rented for a reasonable price and they are relatively easy to operate. Be sure to aerate when the ground is soft for best penetration.
- Rake leaves from your planting beds and mulch them up with a mower. It makes for easy work and the free fertilizer will work its way into the soil. While you’re at it cut your spent perennials to ready your landscape for the spring.
- Add some color to your fall landscape. Mums, decorative kale, cabbage and pansies are good fall annuals. They will add a splash of color during this time of year.
- Winterize your Irrigation System. Winterization can begin in October and can extend until November but should be completed before the first freeze. GroundMaster’s winterization procedure involves using compressed air that maintains over 100 psi, this regulates the amount of air that flows to each zone and assures that all water is blown from the pipes and heads.
One of the best tips for the season: Get out and enjoy the crisp autumn air, have some fun and relax in your garden this season.
The Holiday’s are quickly approaching and it is that time of year to gather with friends and co-workers to reminisce and celebrate your 2006 successes.
The Miller-Valentine Group Design & Renovation team would like to be a part of your holiday celebration! No you don’t have to invite us along but how would you like to sit back, relax and enjoy a lunch or dinner at The Cheesecake Factory on us?
It’s easy to do, click here to register to win a gift card from The Cheesecake Factory. We will draw the winner on Friday, November 17th.
Good luck and Happy Holidays from Miller-Valentine Group’s Design & Renovation team.
Miller-Valentine Design and Renovation offers services in interior
design, space planning, and construction - including recommendations
for everything from what color pallet to use and where to hang
artwork - as well as wiring, plumbing and all facets of construction.
Do You Hear What I Hear?
Win a Lunch or Dinner! 