Introducing the Work Pod—the Chic Answer to Office Chaos

HushFree by Haworth (above)

From Zoom fatigue to open-office overload, it’s no wonder workers are craving their own little slice of quiet. Enter the work pod: privacy, focus, and a dash of futuristic cool—all packed into one sleek soundproof space.

As project manager for Best of NeoCon—the official awards program of the commercial design world—I’ve watched pods go from novelty to necessity. Since 2021, manufacturers have been rolling out everything from solo phone booths to soundproof huddle spaces to alcoves lined with acoustical panels.

Last year, newcomer bubl snagged a coveted gold award in the work pod category, and in 2025, submissions in that category doubled—proof that this market is booming. Here are a few standouts worth checking out. 

bubl

A couple of ex-Uber minds disrupted the design world in 2020 with bubl: AI-powered soundproof pods that are like souped-up ergonomic phone booths. They keep evolving their flagship product, and we’re here for what’s next.

Schiavello

Like a VIP lounge for one, the Focus Quiet Phone Room Plus brings extra space, a refined design, flattering lighting, and whisper-quiet airflow. Built for top-notch acoustics, it’s everything your open office has been missing.

Silen

The Silen Zen Pod is no ordinary booth—it’s a luxe little sanctuary that blends acoustic performance with wellness features. Smart glass, mood lighting, and calming soundscapes support focus, privacy, and wellbeing in today’s shifting work settings.

Haworth

HushFree pods come in every size you might need—XS for private calls, XM for two-person huddles, XL for team powwows, S.Hybrid for deep focus. All pods rock slick designs, Class A acoustics, and on-demand comfort controls.

Dauphin

Big on privacy, light on footprint, Bosselino Uno fits focus, fresh air, and aesthetics into just 40 inches. Quick to assemble, whisper-quiet, and sustainably built, it’s the chic little booth that proves small spaces can make a big impact.