An office pod is a self contained workspace designed to sit within a larger office environment. In recent years, the office pod has become a familiar sight in modern workplaces across Ireland, particularly in open plan offices where privacy and quiet space can be hard to find. From single person focus booths to small meeting booths for collaborative work, these modular units offer flexibility without the need for permanent construction.
As businesses continue to rethink how their offices function, office pods are increasingly seen as a practical solution rather than a design trend. They support concentration, improve acoustics, and make better use of floor space, all while fitting neatly into a wider office interiors strategy.
Key Takeaways
- An office pod is a freestanding enclosed workspace within an open office
- Meeting booths are a type of office pod designed for 2 to 6 people
- Pods and Booths improve acoustic control and reduce distractions
- They provide privacy without building permanent walls
- They support hybrid working and video calls
- They can be relocated or reconfigured as your business grows
The above Office Pods were installed as part of our recent office interiors project for Presidio’s 4,500 sqft European Headquarters, at Parkwest Business Park in Dublin. Check out the details here:
If you are looking for a clear example of what an office pod looks like in practice, the Hush Pods range by MikoMax is a useful reference point. The collection includes compact phone booths for individual calls, focus pods for quiet work, and larger meeting booths designed for small team discussions.
They show how an office pod can combine acoustic panels, built in ventilation, lighting, and power within a freestanding structure. Rather than being part of the building itself, these pods sit within the wider office layout and can often be repositioned if the space changes.
As an introduction to office pods, ranges like Hush help illustrate the variety available. From single person booths to enclosed meeting spaces, they demonstrate how flexible and adaptable these solutions can be within modern office interiors.
What is an office pod?
Defining the modern office pod
An office pod is a prefabricated, enclosed structure that sits within an existing office layout. Unlike traditional meeting rooms that require walls, ceilings, and sometimes planning permission, a pod is typically delivered in modular sections and assembled on site. It creates a defined space within a larger open plan floor.
Most office pods are designed with acoustic panels, integrated lighting, ventilation systems, and power connections. Some are built for individual focus work, while others function as compact meeting booths for team discussions. The key feature is enclosure – they provides a sense of separation from the surrounding office without isolating the user completely.
How office pods differ from traditional meeting rooms
Traditional meeting rooms form part of the building’s fixed layout. They require construction work, potential disruption, and a long term commitment to that configuration. A meeting pod, by contrast, offers flexibility. It can be installed quickly and repositioned if the office layout changes.
There is also a difference in scale. Meeting rooms are often designed for 6, 8, or even 12 people. Many meeting pods cater for 2 to 6 people. This makes them ideal for short conversations, video calls, or focused tasks that do not require a full boardroom setting. In busy offices, that distinction can dramatically improve space efficiency.
What are meeting booths?
Meeting booths are a specific type of office pod designed for small group interaction. Typically seating between 2 and 6 people, meeting booths are enclosed enough to provide acoustic privacy while still feeling connected to the wider workspace.
In practice, meeting booths are used for quick project updates, one to one discussions, and virtual meetings. They reduce the need to book large meeting rooms for short conversations. In a well designed office, meeting booths sit alongside breakout areas, open desks, and quiet pods to create a balanced environment.
Why are office pods becoming essential in modern offices?
The impact of open plan design
Open plan offices were introduced to encourage collaboration and communication. They remove physical barriers and allow teams to interact more easily. However, the downside of open plan design is noise. Phone calls, informal chats, and general movement can make concentration difficult.
An office pod provides a solution within that environment. Instead of reverting to fully enclosed private offices, companies can introduce targeted quiet zones where they are most needed. This maintains openness while offering relief from distraction.
Privacy and acoustic control
Acoustics play a major role in workplace comfort. Even moderate background noise can reduce productivity and increase fatigue over the course of a working day. Office pods are designed with sound absorbing materials that limit both incoming and outgoing noise.
For confidential conversations, this is particularly important. HR discussions, performance reviews, and client calls require discretion. A meeting booth or pod allows these conversations to take place without the risk of being overheard in the main workspace.
Supporting hybrid and flexible working
Hybrid working has changed how offices are used. Many employees now visit the office primarily for collaboration, meetings, and focused tasks that benefit from shared infrastructure. At the same time, video conferencing has become a daily activity.
An office pod provides an ideal setting for virtual meetings. Integrated lighting, acoustic control, and power connections create a professional environment for calls. Rather than taking video meetings at an open desk, staff can step into a dedicated space designed for that purpose.
Different types of office pods and meeting booths
Single person focus pods
Single person office pods are designed for concentration. They typically include a small desk surface, comfortable seating, lighting, and ventilation. These pods are perfect for tasks that require deep focus, such as report writing or financial analysis.
In busy offices, even 30 minutes of uninterrupted work can be valuable. A focus pod offers that opportunity without requiring a private office. It also signals to colleagues that the occupant should not be disturbed.
Two person collaboration booths
Two person meeting booths are slightly larger and often include bench seating and a central table. They are ideal for quick catch ups, mentoring sessions, or informal interviews.
These office pods encourage efficient use of space. Rather than occupying a larger meeting room, teams can use a compact booth that meets their needs without affecting overall room availability. Over time, this can significantly improve how meeting spaces are managed.
Small meeting pods for teams
For slightly larger groups, 4 to 6 person office pods offer an enclosed environment for project meetings and client discussions. These pods often include integrated screens and connectivity to support presentations.
A small meeting pod can act as a flexible alternative to a permanent meeting room. It is particularly useful in growing businesses where team sizes and space requirements may change over time.
Custom finishes and branding
Office pods are available in a wide range of finishes, fabrics, and glazing options. This means they can be aligned with your overall office design scheme. Colours, materials, and lighting can all be selected to complement the surrounding interior.
When integrated thoughtfully, a pod does not feel like an afterthought. Instead, it becomes part of a cohesive design language that reflects your brand and company culture.
The benefits of installing an office pod
Improved productivity
Reducing distractions has a direct impact on productivity. An office pod offers a controlled environment where employees can focus without constant interruption. Over the course of a week, the time saved by minimising distractions can be substantial.
There is also a psychological benefit. Stepping into a defined space for focused work can help create a mental shift. It signals that this time is dedicated to a specific task, which can improve efficiency and output.
Better use of space
Large meeting rooms are often underused. They may sit empty for long periods or be occupied by small groups who do not need the full space. By introducing office pods and meeting booths, businesses can redistribute how space is allocated.
This approach can reduce the need for additional construction. Instead of building more walls, companies can use modular solutions that maximise flexibility within the existing footprint.
Enhanced wellbeing
Workplace wellbeing is influenced by many factors, including noise levels and access to quiet areas. Continuous background noise can increase stress and reduce concentration. An office pod provides a retreat within the office, allowing employees to reset and refocus.
In offices where wellbeing is prioritised, pods are often combined with breakout spaces and soft seating areas. This creates a variety of environments that support different working styles.
Flexibility without major construction
One of the most appealing aspects of an office pod is flexibility. If your team grows or your layout changes, the pod can often be relocated. This adaptability makes it a sensible investment for businesses planning future expansion.
Compared to permanent construction, they can also reduce disruption during installation. They are typically assembled quickly, allowing normal operations to continue with minimal interruption.
What should you consider before choosing an office pod?
Size and layout
Before selecting an office pod, consider how it will sit within the wider layout. Circulation routes, sight lines, and natural light should all be taken into account. Poor placement can create bottlenecks or disrupt the overall flow of the office.
Working with an experienced office interiors provider can help ensure the pod enhances rather than hinders the space. Careful planning at an early stage avoids costly adjustments later.
Technology integration
Modern meeting booths often include power sockets, USB charging points, and screen mounting options. If your team regularly uses video conferencing platforms, ensure the pod supports these requirements.
Lighting should also be considered. Integrated lighting designed for video calls can improve both appearance and comfort during meetings.
Acoustic performance and ventilation
Not all office pods are equal. Acoustic performance varies depending on materials and construction. It is important to understand the level of sound reduction required for your environment.
Ventilation is another key factor. A well designed office pod should include integrated airflow systems to maintain comfort, particularly during longer meetings.
How office pods fit into a wider office fitout strategy
Planning from the outset
Office pods work best when they are considered as part of the overall design rather than added later. During the space planning stage, designers can identify where quiet zones, collaboration areas, and meeting booths should be located.
At iGate Interiors, our pods and meeting booths are often incorporated into broader fitout projects to ensure they align with circulation, branding, and acoustic strategy. This integrated approach delivers a more cohesive result.
Visualising the layout
Modern office design increasingly uses 2D and 3D visualisations to test layouts before installation. Visual previews allow businesses to see how office pods will sit within the space and how they interact with other elements.
This level of planning reduces uncertainty and ensures the final layout supports both function and aesthetics.
Are office pods right for your workplace?
Small and growing businesses
For smaller companies, an office pod can provide meeting space without sacrificing valuable desk area. Instead of building a fixed meeting room, a modular pod offers privacy while preserving flexibility.
As the team grows, the pod can be repositioned or supplemented with additional units. This makes it particularly suitable for businesses in expansion phases.
Larger corporate environments
In larger offices with high staff density, office pods help manage noise and improve meeting room availability. Multiple meeting booths distributed across the floor can reduce pressure on centralised meeting spaces.
They also support a culture of agile working. Employees can choose the environment that best suits their task, whether that is open collaboration or focused concentration.
Comparing cost and value
The cost of an office pod varies depending on size, specification, and finish. While there is an upfront investment, it is often more cost effective than constructing new meeting rooms.
When evaluating value, consider long term flexibility, improved productivity, and enhanced employee satisfaction. These factors contribute to a strong return over time.
FAQs
What is an office pod used for?
An office pod is used for focused work, private calls, and small meetings within an open plan office. It creates a defined, enclosed space without permanent construction.
Are office pods soundproof?
Most office pods are sound insulated rather than completely soundproof. They significantly reduce noise transfer, making conversations private and minimising external distractions.
How much space does an office pod require?
The space required depends on the size of the pod. Single person pods have a compact footprint, while larger meeting booths require more clearance for access and circulation.
Can office pods be moved once installed?
Many office pods are modular and can be relocated if the layout changes. This flexibility is one of their key advantages.
Are meeting booths suitable for video conferencing?
Yes, many meeting booths are designed with integrated lighting, power, and screen options that make them ideal for video calls.
How much does an office pod cost in Ireland?
Costs vary based on size and specification. A professional office interiors provider can offer guidance based on your specific requirements and budget.
Final Thoughts
An office pod is more than a piece of furniture. It is a strategic addition to the modern workplace. By balancing openness with privacy, pods and meeting booths help create environments where people can collaborate, concentrate, and feel comfortable throughout the working day.
