the 100% Made in France office soundproof booth
Phone Box
100% manufactured and assembled in France • Express delivery within 15 days • 3-year warranty
The office phone box
Constant noise, overlapping calls, video conferences disturbing colleagues nearby: the open-plan office has transformed the way we work, sometimes at the expense of concentration. The Phone Box, a compact and mobile acoustic booth, gives teams a quiet space right in the heart of the bustling office.
At Essentielle, we design and manufacture our phone boxes in the Drôme region. Our range covers all uses, from single-person acoustic booths to six-person meeting rooms, with sound insulation measured at up to -30.3 dB and express delivery available within two weeks.
- Optimal privacy. A reduction in speech level of -30.3 dB.
- Environmentally friendly manufacturing. A controlled carbon footprint.
- Ultra-quiet ventilation. A complete air change in under 40 seconds.
Discover our range of phone boxes
What is a phone box?
This product goes by several names depending on the context: phonebox, phone-box, office acoustic booth, acoustic box, telephone booth, phonebooth, soundproof booth, or even privacy pod. Regardless of the terminology, the principle remains the same: a self-contained, soundproof enclosure that creates a bubble of silence in a noisy environment.
The concept draws on the idea of old public telephone booths and adapts it to modern office use. With the widespread adoption of open-plan offices, flex offices and the rise in video conferencing, the need for occasional private spaces has emerged as a key design challenge.
A phone box differs from a simple acoustic partition in one key respect: it is an enclosed, self-contained space, equipped with its own ventilation, lighting and connectivity. You step inside, close the door, plug in, and work without any major installation work in the building.
Reducing noise pollution in open-plan offices
Telephone conversations, keyboards, people coming and going, ringing phones: the cumulative noise of an open-plan office quickly takes its toll on concentration. Our phone boxes achieve a measured reduction in speech levels of up to -30.3 dB, thanks to a combination of components designed to trap sound: 8 mm Silence laminated glass, high-density acoustic foam, soundproof seals, … The result is immediately noticeable upon entering the booth. The outside hubbub recedes, the caller’s voice becomes clear, and your attention returns.
Maintaining the confidentiality of your calls
A conversation with a client, an HR matter, a sensitive negotiation, a strategic video conference: all these moments call for a private space. The laminated door with a magnetic closure and the booth’s soundproof enclosure ensure that what is said inside stays inside. For regulated professions—healthcare, finance, law, human resources—the phone box becomes a compliance tool in its own right.
Enhancing concentration and productivity
Beyond calls, the phone box is an excellent tool for deep work. When a task requires sustained focus (writing, analysis, preparing a presentation), a few hours in the booth are better than a whole day in a noisy environment. The benefit is directly reflected in the quality of work and the quality of life in the office.
Adapting to new ways of working
Flexible working, hybrid working, co-working: workspaces are constantly evolving. Our phone boxes are designed to keep pace with these changes. Thanks to their mobile base fitted with built-in castors and height-adjustment legs, they can be moved as and when the layout changes, without the need for building work or dismantling. This is a decisive advantage over traditional partitioning, which locks the space into place and requires a building project every time a change is made.
Why install a phone box in the office?
Open-plan offices encourage interaction and the flow of ideas, but they also have a downside: ambient noise, interruptions and a lack of privacy. The phone box provides a practical solution to these everyday frustrations.
Our range of phone boxes for the office
Every business has its own specific needs: short, frequent calls; long video conference sessions; confidential meetings with several people. Our range covers the five formats most useful for modern workspaces, from the compact solo unit to the six-person acoustic booth.
Phone Box Solo: Model S (1-person acoustic booth)
The Model S is our most compact format: 95 × 96 × 212 cm, taking up just 0.9 m² of floor space. Equipped with a tablet at a height of 103 cm (ideal for making calls whilst standing or leaning against), it offers just the right amount of space for a phone call lasting a few minutes or a quick video conference.
Its column-like shape allows it to fit into a corridor, in the corner of an open-plan office or near a reception area. The ventilation flow rate of 280 m³/h ensures a complete air change in under 40 seconds, for constant breathing comfort.
Phone Box Bureau: S Bureau model (single acoustic booth with bench)
Same footprint as the S model, but with a different configuration: the high shelf is replaced by a desk (43 × 79 cm, 73 cm high) and an integrated 88 cm bench. The S Bureau becomes a genuine private mini-office.
This is the ideal solution for long calls, one-to-one meetings and periods of deep concentration. You can settle in with your computer and files and work in peace for an hour or two without any constraints.
Phone Box Duo: Model M (2-person acoustic booth)
The M model opens up the booth for two people to work together. Measuring 95 × 190 × 212 cm (1.8 m² floor area), it features a central table measuring 51 × 78 cm flanked by two face-to-face benches. Ventilation increases to 575 m³/h, powered by six fans to cope with increased occupancy.
Ideal for two-person video conferences, face-to-face meetings, quick briefings or manager-staff check-ins. The face-to-face bench creates a natural dynamic for discussion, more human than a shared desk.
Phone Box Meeting: Model L (4-person acoustic booth)
With the L model (136 × 190 × 212 cm, 2.4 m² floor area), we move to a mobile mini-meeting room format. The 78 × 92 cm table comfortably seats three to four people, ventilation increases to 750 m³/h, and two LED spotlights illuminate the space with soft light.
It’s the perfect solution for those thirty-minute to one-hour meetings that don’t require a large room, yet used to tie up the only one available. The Phone Box L frees up your meeting rooms for matters that truly deserve them.
Phone Box XL: XL model (6-person acoustic booth)
The most spacious model in the range. 160 × 190 × 212 cm, 3 m² floor area, a central table measuring 78 × 115 cm and two benches, each 153 cm long. Six people can work comfortably inside, in a fully soundproofed bubble.
This is the ideal solution for steering committees, collaborative workshops and confidential meetings that require both space and privacy. The 750 m³/h ventilation system maintains impeccable air quality, even during long meetings.
The technical specifications of our acoustic phone boxes
A phone box is not just an insulated cube. It is a technical product that must function flawlessly under intensive use. Here is what goes on beneath the shell of our booths.
Acoustic performance of up to -30.3 dB
Speech level reduction reaches -30.3 dB on the S reference model, as measured by an independent acoustic consultancy. This performance is based on four components working in tandem:
- 8 mm Silence laminated glass,
- high-density acoustic foam on the interior walls,
- perimeter acoustic seals between each panel,
- and an airflow system specially designed as an acoustic trap
where air enters and exits via pathways that absorb sound as it passes through.
An efficient and silent ventilation system
The classic pitfall of low-end booths is a lack of air. When the door is closed, CO₂ levels rise quickly, and so does the feeling of being trapped. Our phone boxes completely renew the ambient air in under 40 seconds, with a maximum variation of 200 ppm CO₂ compared to the outside environment.
The airflow adapts to the size of the booth: three fans for the S and S Bureau models (280 m³/h), six for the M (575 m³/h), and eight for the L and XL models (750 m³/h). The system remains quiet, so as not to compromise the acoustic benefits.
LED lighting and touch-sensitive dimmer
One or two 800-lumen LED spotlights depending on the model, in warm white 3000 K. The light is soft, non-intrusive, and remains pleasant even during extended sessions. A touch-sensitive dimmer positioned at eye level allows you to adjust the brightness and, at the same time, the ventilation; depending on the time of day and individual preference.
A comprehensive, integrated range of connections
The socket panel is integrated into the centre of the column and is accessible from any position. A 220V PC socket, two USB-C ports, one USB-A port and an RJ45 socket are all you need to connect the entire modern work ecosystem: computer, phone, headphones, monitor. No visible cables, no need for adapters.
For the M, L and XL models, a monitor mount option adds a fixed mount, a dedicated 220V PC socket and a cable grommet to transform the booth into a fully-fledged video conference room.
Mobile base and reversible door
The phone box sits on an ultra-slim 2.8 cm base fitted with integrated castors and eight levelling feet to compensate for uneven floors. The booth can be moved without dismantling, which makes all the difference when rearranging the workspace.
The door is reversible: the opening direction is selected at the time of ordering, depending on the intended location. The magnetic closure ensures consistent soundproofing throughout use.
How to choose your office phone box?
Choosing the right model depends on three factors: who will use it, for what purpose, and how often. Here are the questions to ask yourself before ordering.
Identify the use: solo calls, meetings, video conferences
An employee who makes three to four short calls a day does not need the same equipment as a sales team holding back-to-back video calls. For brief, frequent calls, the S model is more than sufficient. For longer sessions or when concentration is required, the S Bureau is the better choice. For two-way video conferences or interviews, the M model is the right choice. The L and XL models really come into their own when you need to bring a team together. In large open-plan offices, it is often smarter to combine several formats; for example, two or three S models for quick calls, an M for video conferences, and an L for team meetings. Rather than relying solely on a single model.
Assess the available space
Floor areas range from 0.9 m² (S and S Office) to 3 m² (XL), including 1.8 m² (M) and 2.4 m² (L). The height of 212 cm is compatible with almost all office ceilings, including those fitted with technical suspended ceilings. One point often overlooked: ensure there is sufficient clearance in front of the door to allow for comfortable opening and movement. Our team will assist you with the layout plan when providing a quote.
Check the sound insulation level
Insulation is what distinguishes a proper phone box from a soundproof cupboard. Our booths achieve -30.3 dB on the S model’s reference measurement, a level that allows you to switch from a bustling open-plan office to an environment truly conducive to concentration and privacy.
Compare options and connectivity
Beyond the basic configuration, several options may influence your choice. The glass back panel maintains the brightness of the workspace and reduces the feeling of being in a closed-off box. This is often a deciding factor for users who feel claustrophobic. The screen mount transforms the M, L and XL models into proper video conferencing rooms. And the M1 fire-rated Category B fabric is essential for installation in public access buildings.
Anticipating mobility and scalability
If you’re planning to move, reorganise a workspace or test the setup before investing further, the booth’s mobility makes all the difference. Our models are designed to be moved easily, without dismantling and without technical intervention.
Phone boxes made in France and eco-friendly
Choosing an Essentielle phone box means choosing a product entirely made in France, with all that this implies in terms of reduced environmental impact and support for local employment.
Manufactured in France in the Drôme
Our booths are manufactured and assembled in our 9,000 m² workshop located in Beaumont-lès-Valence, in the Drôme. A team of 80 employees works there using a constantly updated fleet of machinery.
The supply chain is short: the foam comes from the Ardèche, the seating and carpet cutting from the Isère, and the metal, glass and electrical components from the Drôme. Everything converges on Valence, which significantly reduces transport distances.
Certified Origine France Garantie
Our phone boxes carry the Origine France Garantie label, which certifies that the majority of the added value and the entire assembly process take place in France. This commitment is verified by an independent body, not merely a commercial claim.
Rated Critère A by Eco Impact
All our acoustic booths are certified Critère A. The highest rating on a scale from A to E by Eco Impact. The score takes into account the entire life cycle: the nature and origin of raw materials, manufacturing conditions, distribution and packaging methods, modularity and durability in use, and end-of-life. In practical terms, 60% of the material used in an Essentielle booth comes from recycled sources.
Environmentally friendly materials
The wood used comes from sustainably managed forests (PEFC certified). The acoustic foam is 100% recycled and manufactured locally in Ardèche. The fabric is OEKO-TEX certified. The electrical system is designed for low energy consumption.
Beyond manufacturing, the product follows the Cradle to Cradle principle: components can be 100% dismantled and recycled at the end of their life. The booth is as easy to dismantle as it is to assemble, and each material is returned to its respective recycling stream.
A tried-and-tested acoustic solution, already adopted by over 100 companies
Essentielle is already used in open-plan offices, co-working spaces, training centres and corporate offices.
A 100% customisable phone box
An acoustic booth rarely goes unnoticed in a workspace. It might as well blend seamlessly with your visual identity. Our phone boxes are fully customisable, from the exterior panel down to the smallest detail of the fabric.
Exterior finishes: white, anthracite or light oak
A choice of three finishes in PPSMHD compressed melamine: E1 White, E2 Anthracite or E3 Light Oak. White blends into modern, bright environments; anthracite asserts a more contemporary character; light oak brings a natural warmth that aligns with current biophilic trends.
Interior upholstery: six colours in the A Élégance range
The interior fabric is made of polyester with a Teflon finish, with a Martindale abrasion resistance of over 100,000 cycles; a wear rating designed for intensive professional use. Six colours are available: light grey, anthracite, sea green, navy blue, burgundy and mustard yellow.
You can mix and match fabrics across the side panels, back, ceiling and seating to create a visual identity unique to your brand.
Category B Gabriel Chili fabric: M1 fire-rated and 100% recycled
For public access buildings or for companies committed to sustainability, the B Gabriel Chili range is made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester (made from recycled plastic bottles). M1 fire-rated, Martindale resistance exceeding 60,000 cycles, available in four colours.
Options: glass rear panel and screen mount
The glass rear panel (8 mm Silence laminated glass) opens the booth to the outside and preserves natural light on the set. This is the option most requested by users who fear a feeling of confinement.
The screen mount kit, available on M, L and XL models, adds a fixed screen mount, a dedicated 220V PC socket and a cable grommet for connections. A valuable asset for intensive video conferencing use.
Delivery and installation of your phone box
An acoustic booth is only of value if it is up and running quickly and installed properly. Our logistics are designed to minimise lead times and make your daily life easier.
Express delivery within two weeks
For the S, S Bureau, M and L models in standard configuration, your booth can be dispatched within two weeks of ordering.
For customised configurations (other colours, options, Category B fabrics), standard delivery takes six weeks, allowing time for bespoke manufacturing.
Transport and installation coordinated by our teams
Transport and installation are coordinated by our approved teams. Installation takes between 40 minutes (S model) and 60 minutes (M, L, XL models), carried out by two to three people depending on the size.
No preparatory work is required on your part: all that is needed is a 220V electrical socket nearby and access routes wide enough for the components to pass through. Our team will inform you in advance of any logistical constraints to be anticipated.
FAQ - Everything you need to know about phone boxes
What is the difference between a phone box and an acoustic booth?
These are two names for the same product. “Phone box” is the English term (literally “telephone booth”), whilst “acoustic booth” is the French equivalent. You may also come across the terms phonebox, acoustic box, phonebooth, office telephone booth or soundproof booth. They all refer to the same solution: a closed, mobile and self-contained booth designed for calls and concentration.
How many people can a phone box accommodate?
Our range covers all needs, from 1 to 6 people. The S and S Bureau models are designed for one person, the M model accommodates two people, the L up to four people, and the XL up to six people.
How do you install a phone box in an open-plan office?
No building work is required. All you need is a nearby 220V power socket and a floor space of between 0.9 m² (S model) and 3 m² (XL model). The booth is delivered and installed by our teams in 40 to 60 minutes, depending on the model.
What is the sound insulation of an Essentielle phone box?
Our booths offer a measured speech level reduction of up to -30.3 dB, based on a test carried out by an independent acoustic consultancy. This allows you to switch from a busy open-plan office to a quiet environment conducive to concentration.
Can a phone box be moved?
Yes. All our phone boxes sit on a mobile base fitted with integrated castors and eight adjustable levelling feet. You can move it around your premises without dismantling it or requiring technical assistance.
Does a phone box require any installation work?
No. The booth arrives as a kit, is assembled on site in under an hour by our team, and plugs into a standard 220V socket. No drilling, no fixing to the floor or ceiling.
Can the phone box be customised?
Yes, completely. Three exterior finishes, three finishes for the column and table, ten fabric colours across two ranges, glass back panel and screen mount options: your booth can be configured to fit perfectly into your visual scheme.
What options are available?
The main options are the glass back panel (8 mm Silence laminated glass) to maintain natural light, the screen mount (available on M, L and XL models) for video conferencing, and the Gabriel Chili Category B fabric, classified as M1 fire-retardant, which is essential for installations in public buildings.