Hello everyone, I am currently setting up a home office and have decided to use the KALLAX shelving unit from IKEA as a room divider and storage. However, I have a problem: the shelf is open and made of relatively thin wood, so it doesn’t really dampen noise. When I work on a quiet afternoon, certain sounds from other rooms or conversations in the hallway are clearly reflected by the shelf and become noticeable in the office.
My question is: how can I modify or add to the KALLAX shelving unit in the office to significantly reduce noise transmission? Which materials or construction methods have proven effective for improving sound insulation without completely ruining the simple design of the shelf?
I have already considered inserting foam or filling materials, but I lack the know-how on how to do it effectively so that it really makes a difference. I look forward to your tips and experiences!
My question is: how can I modify or add to the KALLAX shelving unit in the office to significantly reduce noise transmission? Which materials or construction methods have proven effective for improving sound insulation without completely ruining the simple design of the shelf?
I have already considered inserting foam or filling materials, but I lack the know-how on how to do it effectively so that it really makes a difference. I look forward to your tips and experiences!
Hello Ferenc10,
Your question about sound insulation for KALLAX shelves in the home office is very well considered. I have experience with similar situations and can recommend a multi-step approach:
1. Insulation layer behind the shelf: To stop sound transmission through the shelf, you can install soundproofing panels, such as acoustic foam or mineral wool, on the back wall behind the shelf. This works especially well if the shelf is placed against a wall.
2. Closing compartments: Open shelves provide little sound insulation. It is advisable to close individual KALLAX compartments with so-called compartment closure panels. You can make these from wood or dense plastic, or use ready-made glass or plexiglass panels. It is important that the panels fit tightly to minimize sound bridges.
3. Internal filling: You can place rigid foam panels or acoustic foam inside the compartments. This absorbs sound within the compartments instead of reflecting it.
4. Soft materials: Placing a large rug around the KALLAX and using fabric elements (e.g., curtains in front of the shelf) also help improve the overall room acoustics.
A common mistake is lining the shelf only with insulation material without using solid backing, which is not very effective because sound otherwise just passes through.
In summary: Sound insulation is always a combination of sealed surfaces, absorbent materials, and avoiding air gaps. I hope this helps you!
Your question about sound insulation for KALLAX shelves in the home office is very well considered. I have experience with similar situations and can recommend a multi-step approach:
1. Insulation layer behind the shelf: To stop sound transmission through the shelf, you can install soundproofing panels, such as acoustic foam or mineral wool, on the back wall behind the shelf. This works especially well if the shelf is placed against a wall.
2. Closing compartments: Open shelves provide little sound insulation. It is advisable to close individual KALLAX compartments with so-called compartment closure panels. You can make these from wood or dense plastic, or use ready-made glass or plexiglass panels. It is important that the panels fit tightly to minimize sound bridges.
3. Internal filling: You can place rigid foam panels or acoustic foam inside the compartments. This absorbs sound within the compartments instead of reflecting it.
4. Soft materials: Placing a large rug around the KALLAX and using fabric elements (e.g., curtains in front of the shelf) also help improve the overall room acoustics.
A common mistake is lining the shelf only with insulation material without using solid backing, which is not very effective because sound otherwise just passes through.
In summary: Sound insulation is always a combination of sealed surfaces, absorbent materials, and avoiding air gaps. I hope this helps you!
teyosef schrieb:
Typical mistakes include lining the shelf only with insulation material without using solid back panels, which is of little useI basically agree with that. However, it should not be overlooked that KALLAX units are usually not designed as soundproof walls but primarily provide storage space.
Therefore, the question arises how much noise reduction you actually want to achieve and what the sources of noise are. Often, simple measures like laying down a rug, installing tightly closing doors to the study, or even using earplugs are more effective than merely modifying the shelf.
Especially when conversations and other human voices are the main issue, shelves alone can hardly improve the situation, since sound is also transmitted indirectly through walls and ceilings. A holistic approach is necessary here.
Could you please add which types of noises are most disturbing and whether you use the KALLAX completely as a room divider or if it is placed against a wall?
Hello Ferenc10,
I think your approach makes a lot of sense, and I would like to add that when it comes to soundproofing, not only the materials matter but also the positioning and room layout.
That is at least partly true. I have had good experiences when equipping the KALLAX shelf as an acoustic barrier—especially if you don’t keep the shelf completely open but close off some compartments with solid panels and add absorbers inside.
One idea that has often worked well combines the following steps:
- Attach a back panel made of MDF or plywood, well sealed
- Mount a layer of acoustic foam (at least 2–3 cm (1 inch) thick) behind it
- Possibly add heavy curtains next to the shelf to reduce side sound transmission
This way, the shelf becomes a combination of visible storage and a functional acoustic barrier. It is important to seal the panels carefully so that no air gaps remain that could transmit sound.
If you want to stay flexible, there are also ready-made soundproofing panels you can attach inside the compartments. These are often thinner than DIY solutions and look quite appealing.
I hope this gives you some more ideas. If you like, I can also share some product names or sources.
I think your approach makes a lot of sense, and I would like to add that when it comes to soundproofing, not only the materials matter but also the positioning and room layout.
faso31 schrieb:
Especially when conversations and other human voices are the issue, shelves alone hardly improve the situation
That is at least partly true. I have had good experiences when equipping the KALLAX shelf as an acoustic barrier—especially if you don’t keep the shelf completely open but close off some compartments with solid panels and add absorbers inside.
One idea that has often worked well combines the following steps:
- Attach a back panel made of MDF or plywood, well sealed
- Mount a layer of acoustic foam (at least 2–3 cm (1 inch) thick) behind it
- Possibly add heavy curtains next to the shelf to reduce side sound transmission
This way, the shelf becomes a combination of visible storage and a functional acoustic barrier. It is important to seal the panels carefully so that no air gaps remain that could transmit sound.
If you want to stay flexible, there are also ready-made soundproofing panels you can attach inside the compartments. These are often thinner than DIY solutions and look quite appealing.
I hope this gives you some more ideas. If you like, I can also share some product names or sources.
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