Question 1

What are office pods?

Accepted Answer

An office pod is an internal "room-in-room" booth solution that provides offices with acoustic meeting spaces such as meeting room pods, office work booths and office phone booths. Indoor office pods are an excellent alternative to traditional construction solutions such as office partitioning. Office pods are flexible, free-standing units designed to be completely self-contained, need no planning permission, and can be easily reconfigured if the company decides to relocate or refurbish their office space.
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Enjoy browsing our aesthetically pleasing indoor office pods and booth options. With clean lines, attractive colours and comfortable seating, these flexible solutions include solo working spaces, as well as meeting rooms that are sound proofed. Many of the below options come with charging plugs for laptops and devices, or screens for presentations.

Question 2

What are the benefits of pods and seating booths?

Accepted Answer

Office pods have become a key component of the modern indoor workplace. They enable privacy in a world where office real estate space has become compressed. They also encourage collaboration, lower stress levels, make space for privacy and boost concentration levels in an open plan office – all crucial factors of a successful working environment. Another benefit is the ease of reconfigurability and the cost-savings that this brings - a pod can be easily relocated from one part of the building to another whereas a built meeting room cannot.

Question 3

Are pods & booths cheaper than building office partitions?

Accepted Answer

At face value, pods may seem more expensive than building office partitions but there are a lot of potential hidden costs involved in building a room that may not be immediately obvious.  For example, many pods come equipped with integral lighting and ventilation.  When building a meeting room, you may have to adapt the lighting and the ventilation to comply with Building Regulations and this can cost more than the partitioning itself.  When you consider the flexibility and ease of relocation of office pods, they are often considerably more cost effective than building partitions in the long-term.

Question 4

How much do office pods cost?

Accepted Answer

Pods and booths vary in price depending on the size and levels of acoustic privacy that they offer, along with the internal configuration.  A very simple phone booth (https://www.fluidfurniture.co.uk/office-phone-booths)with a door and a shelf, to take private phone calls can be as little as £5,000.  However, a large meeting pod (https://www.fluidfurniture.co.uk/office-meeting-pods)to seat 10 people, with sliding doors, high-quality acoustic performance and integral technology would be considerably more.  Why not get in touch (https://www.fluidfurniture.co.uk/contact)with one of our team, who can talk you through the options available and present a solution that meets your requirements and your budget.

Question 5

Do pods contribute to sustainability goals?

Accepted Answer

Pods support circular design because they can be reused, relocated and refurbished rather than demolished. Fluid can also supply pods through rental, which further reduces waste and supports ESG commitments. Many pod manufacturers use recycled materials or low-VOC finishes, which we can advise on during specification.

Question 6

How much sound privacy can I expect from an office pod?

Accepted Answer

Acoustic pods are built to provide confidentiality, allowing you to take calls or hold meetings without being overheard or distracting people nearby. Our pod range can comfortably sit within an open-plan area without sound leaking out into surrounding workstations.

If you’re unsure what level of acoustic performance you need, we can guide you through the different sound ratings and help you choose a pod that suits your workspace.

Question 7

Do office pods need planning permission?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, office pods do not require planning permission or building control approval because they are classed as furniture rather than permanent structures. This makes them a flexible alternative to fixed meeting rooms, particularly for landlords or tenants who want to avoid major alterations to a space.

However, requirements can vary depending on the building and landlord. Some properties may require pods to be integrated with existing fire alarm, sprinkler, or ventilation systems to meet safety and compliance standards. It’s therefore always recommended to check with building management before installation.

Question 8

Where should we position pods in our space?

Accepted Answer

Pods tend to work best when they’re placed close to where people already work and collaborate, rather than tucked away in unused corners. Keeping them visible and easy to reach encourages regular use and makes it simple for teams to spot whether a pod is free, even though some of our pods have integrated booking systems.

It’s also important to think about circulation routes, natural light, and how the pod will sit alongside the rest of your furniture. Our team can help you map out the ideal locations so pods feel intuitive to use, don’t block walkways, and blend seamlessly with your existing layout or planned redesign.

Question 9

How many pods does a typical office need?

Accepted Answer

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, as every office has its own rhythm. That said, offices with frequent ad-hoc conversations, hybrid meetings or focus-heavy tasks generally benefit from a balanced mix of solo pods and small meeting pods. This helps reduce noise across the floorplate and ensures people always have somewhere private to step into.

The right number depends on factors like team size, how often people are on calls, and the overall layout of the space. If you’d like something more precise, we can review your working patterns and noise levels to recommend a pod ratio tailored specifically to your office.

Question 10

Are office pods wheelchair accessible?

Accepted Answer

Most multi-person pods offer low thresholds or floorless designs that support wheelchair access. Some manufacturers also offer fully compliant accessible models. If accessibility is a key requirement, we can advise on which brands and configurations will work in your space.

Question 11

Do pods provide their own ventilation and lighting?

Accepted Answer

Yes,  all of the pods we supply come with integrated lighting and active ventilation as standard. The lighting is designed to be comfortable for video calls and focused work, while the ventilation refreshes the air continuously whenever the pod is in use.

Because these systems are built in, pods don’t need to connect to your building’s existing services, which makes installation quick and disruption-free. This also means they stay comfortable during longer meetings or extended periods of concentrated work. If you have specific lighting or airflow requirements, we can recommend pod models that offer enhanced performance or adjustable settings.

Question 12

How are pods powered?

Accepted Answer

Pods are designed to be straightforward to install - they simply plug into a standard 13A wall socket, so there’s no need for specialist electrical work or building modifications. Once connected, the pod’s internal system powers the lighting, ventilation and any built-in charging points. Most models provide standard UK power outlets inside the pod, along with USB-A or USB-C charging, so users can plug in laptops and devices with ease. Larger pods often include multiple outlets or optional connection points such as HDMI or data ports.

If you’d like to position pods away from walls or in the centre of an open-plan space, we can look at solutions such as floor boxes, cable trays or discreet ceiling feeds to keep power neat and unobtrusive.

Question 13

Can an office pod be moved if our layout changes?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Pods are modular and designed to be relocated, which is why they’re so popular with growing teams and landlords who want to keep spaces flexible. Our installation team can move pods between floors or buildings whenever your needs evolve.

Question 14

Are office pods sustainable?

Accepted Answer

Yes, pods can be a very sustainable alternative to building fixed meeting rooms. Because they’re classed as furniture rather than construction, they avoid the plasterboard waste, heavy materials and carbon footprint associated with traditional fit-outs. Pods can also be relocated, refurbished and reused across different projects, which supports a more circular approach to office design.

Many leading pod manufacturers now use recycled metals, low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials, and their modular designs make individual components easy to repair or replace rather than disposing of a whole unit.

If sustainability or ESG performance is a priority for your organisation, we can guide you towards low-carbon pod options, pods with recognised environmental certifications, or even rental models that maximise reuse and minimise waste.

Question 15

Is it cheaper to rent an office pod rather than buy one?

Accepted Answer

Rental is ideal for companies wanting flexibility, short-term projects, or those avoiding upfront capital spend. Buying can be more cost-effective for long-term use. Fluid offers both routes - including short-term pod rental - so you can choose the model that suits your budget and plans.

Question 16

What kind of maintenance do pods need?

Accepted Answer

Pods are generally very low-maintenance, but a little routine care helps keep them performing at their best. Over time, things like door hinges, seals and latches may need small adjustments, and ventilation systems benefit from the occasional filter change to maintain good airflow.

In busy offices or high-traffic areas, it can be useful to schedule periodic checks just to ensure everything is running smoothly. If you buy or rent pods through Fluid, we can organise maintenance, servicing or part replacements as needed - keeping downtime to a minimum and ensuring your pods stay comfortable, reliable and ready to use.

Question 17

How long does it take to install a pod?

Accepted Answer

Most pods can be installed within a few hours, and the process is clean and straightforward. Even larger meeting pods only take a little longer. There’s no need for building works or major disruption - our team handles everything on-site so your team can carry on as normal.

Question 18

What are typical lead times?

Accepted Answer

Lead times depend on the brand and the level of customisation you choose, but most pods are delivered within 4-8 weeks once the order is confirmed. Bespoke finishes or larger meeting pods may take a little longer.

If you need a quicker turnaround - for example, during an office move, a refurbishment, or to support hybrid working changes - we can often supply rental pods or fast-track options to get you up and running much sooner. Our team will always advise you on the fastest and most practical route based on your timeline.

Question 19

Can we trial a pod before committing?

Accepted Answer

Yes - many clients choose to trial a pod first to understand how their teams use it day-to-day. We can arrange a short-term rental or bring in a demo unit so you can test acoustics, comfort, and placement within your space. It’s a straightforward way to make sure the pod you choose genuinely supports the way your people work.

Question 20

What size pods are available?

Accepted Answer

Pod sizes range from single-person phone booths all the way up to larger meeting rooms for 6–8 people. The right size depends on how your teams work - for focused calls, hybrid meetings, 1:1s or small group sessions. We’re happy to recommend a mix based on your office activity.

Question 21

How many office pods will our team need?

Accepted Answer

There’s no single formula, but as a general guide most organisations benefit from a mix of solo pods and small meeting pods spread across their workspace. For many offices, a single-person pod for roughly every 8–12 people works well, with larger meeting pods added in line with how often teams collaborate.

If your space has a lot of ad-hoc conversations, hybrid calls or background noise, you may need a few more to keep things running smoothly. We’re always happy to review your layout, working patterns and team size to recommend a pod mix that feels right for the way your people actually work.

Question 22

Can the electronic parts inside a pod be repaired or replaced?

Accepted Answer

Yes - the electronic components in high-quality pods, including Framery models, are designed to be serviceable. If a light, fan, sensor or control unit develops a fault, it can usually be replaced without affecting the rest of the pod. This helps extend the pod’s lifespan and keeps downtime to a minimum. If anything does need attention, our team can identify the issue, source the correct parts and organise the repair for you, whether the pod is owned or rented through Fluid.

Question 23

What’s the expected lifespan of a pod, and does it come with a warranty?

Accepted Answer

Pods from leading manufacturers are designed for long-term use, with modular construction that allows for servicing or refurbishment. Warranty periods vary by model and brand, but premium pods typically come with warranties of 5+ years - get in touch (https://www.fluidfurniture.co.uk/contact)with our team for specific warranty details.

Question 24

Can we rent pods instead of buying them?

Accepted Answer

Yes - through our FluidSpace Flex programme, you can rent acoustic pods and phone booths on a fully flexible basis, with a minimum term of just three months. This is ideal for businesses that are growing, trialling hybrid working, managing temporary teams, or want to keep capital free for other priorities.

Rental includes delivery, installation and ongoing support, and you can scale your pod provision up or down as your space evolves. If you’d prefer a longer-term arrangement without a large upfront cost, we also offer leasing options with fixed monthly payments over 12–60 months, or even fully flexible leases with as little as 90 days’ notice to make changes.

Our team can walk you through the differences between renting, leasing and buying to help you choose the most cost-effective option for your plans and budget.

Question 25

What does pod rental include - delivery, setup and maintenance?

Accepted Answer

When you rent a pod through Fluid, everything you need to get up and running is included. Our team will deliver, install and position the pod for you, making sure ventilation, lighting and power are all set up correctly so it’s ready to use straight away. There’s no building work, no disruption and no need for additional trades.

Your rental also comes with ongoing support for the duration of the hire. If anything needs adjusting, repairing or replacing, we’ll take care of it - keeping your office running smoothly with minimal downtime. And because our rental service is designed to be flexible, we can also swap, add or remove pods as your needs change, all managed by our in-house team.

If you’re renting pods alongside other furniture through our broader rental offering, we can coordinate everything through a single point of contact, making the whole process simple from delivery to long-term support.

Question 26

How long can we rent or lease pods for?

Accepted Answer

Our rental plans start from as little as 3 months, perfect for short-term projects or trial periods, and you can continue renting for as long as your needs require. For more structured furniture rental or lease-to-own contracts (desks, chairs, pods, etc.), Fluid offers flexible terms from 12 up to 60 months, or a “fully flexible” package with just a 90-day notice period for changes.

Question 27

Can pods be relocated if we change offices or reconfigure layout?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our pods are modular and designed with flexibility in mind. They can be disassembled, relocated and reinstalled, which makes them ideal for growing teams or businesses that anticipate change. As part of our relocation and reconfiguration service, we can handle transport, reinstallation and any adjustments needed - minimising disruption to your business.

Question 28

Can we combine pod rental with furniture leasing or other services?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. One of the advantages of working with Fluid is that you can bring everything together under one roof. Alongside pod rental, we also offer furniture rental, long-term leasing, procurement, office design, fit-out and full relocation services. This means you can create or refresh your space as a single joined-up project rather than coordinating multiple suppliers.

Whether you’re opening a new office, trialling hybrid working, reconfiguring a floorplate or planning a full refurbishment, we can supply the pods, desks, chairs, storage and soft seating you need - and install everything in one seamless programme. It’s a simple, flexible way to scale your space as your organisation evolves.

Question 29

Are pods suitable for landlords and serviced offices?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Pods are an excellent solution for landlords, serviced office providers and managed operators because they create usable meeting and focus spaces without committing to permanent fit-out. They can be added or removed quickly, which helps keep floors agile, market-ready, and easy to adapt between tenants.

Pods also allow landlords to enhance the value of their space - offering ready-made touchdown areas, call booths and small meeting rooms that appeal to modern occupiers without the cost, disruption or rigidity of built construction. And because pods are fully relocatable, they support flexible leasing models, dilapidation requirements and short-term tenant agreements.

Fluid frequently works with landlords and office operators to specify pods that integrate seamlessly with existing furniture, brand aesthetics and operational needs, whether that’s a single phone booth or a full suite of private meeting pods across multiple floors.

Question 30

Do pods get hot inside?

Accepted Answer

Good-quality pods include continuous mechanical ventilation that refreshes the air throughout the day. They’re designed to stay comfortable even during long calls. If your building has warm areas or you’re concerned about airflow, we can recommend models with higher ventilation performance.

Question 31

Can pods be customised to match our interior design?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many brands offer a choice of colours, finishes, upholstery and glass options. Whether you want your pods to blend into the space or make a statement, we can help you specify finishes that complement your overall design scheme.

Question 32

Are pods compliant with workplace health and safety standards?

Accepted Answer

All pods supplied by Fluid meet the necessary office space health and safety requirements, including:

• Fire-tested materials
 • Safe electrical systems
 • Integrated lighting that meets office standards
 • Built-in mechanical ventilation for adequate airflow
 • Tempered or laminated safety glass, depending on the manufacturer
 • Acoustic materials tested to recognised standards

Many pods also offer low thresholds or floorless designs to support wheelchair access, along with options that meet accessibility guidelines.

If your building has specific regulatory needs - such as fire strategies, escape route requirements, landlord approvals, or accessibility criteria - we can advise you on suitable pod models and provide technical documentation to support your compliance process.

Question 33

Do pods contribute to sustainability goals?

Accepted Answer

Pods support circular design because they can be reused, relocated and refurbished rather than demolished. Fluid can also supply pods through rental, which further reduces waste and supports ESG commitments. Many pod manufacturers use recycled materials or low-VOC finishes, which we can advise on during specification.

Question 34

Do Framery’s smart features require a subscription?

Accepted Answer

The essential functions, such as ventilation and lighting controls, are included as standard. Optional analytics and advanced digital features may be available as a paid service in the future, but the basic functionality does not rely on a subscription.

Question 35

What makes Framery pods different from other brands?

Accepted Answer

Framery is known for exceptional acoustic performance, strong build quality and very user-friendly design. Their latest office pods also include smart controls. The fans and lighting are managed automatically through built-in sensors, so the pod adjusts itself as soon as someone steps inside. On top of that, features like occupancy data, touchscreen controls and software updates help future-proof the pod as your workplace evolves.

We supply Framery alongside a wide range of other manufacturers, so tell us your needs and we can give you an objective view of what will work best for your people and your space.

Question 36

Can Framery pods integrate with our booking or office systems?

Accepted Answer

Framery’s smart pods can be connected to their own platform, Framery Connect, which allows for room booking, occupancy insights and optimisation data. If you’re already using office technology, we can advise whether Framery’s ecosystem will complement your wider set-up.

Question 37

Are Framery pods sustainable?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Framery has a strong focus on recycled materials, low-emission manufacturing and long product lifecycles. Their modular steel structures allow pods to be refurbished and reused repeatedly, helping organisations meet ESG and circularity goals. If sustainability is a key driver for your project, we can talk you through the different certifications and materials used.

Question 38

Do Framery pods interfere with Wi-Fi or mobile signals?

Accepted Answer

No, Framery tests their pods extensively to ensure they don’t disrupt wireless performance, and in our experience users have no issues connecting calls or devices inside the pods.

Question 39

What power and connectivity options do Framery pods include?

Accepted Answer

Framery pods come with built-in, country-specific power outlets so users can plug in laptops and devices straight away. Most models also offer optional USB-C, USB-A, LAN or HDMI ports, depending on how you plan to use the space.

As a guide, single-person pods typically include one or two power outlets with additional ports available, while larger meeting pods provide multiple outlets and a broader range of connection points. If you need support with AV setups or choosing the right configuration, we can walk you through the options and recommend the best fit for your space.

Question 40

What is the lighting like inside a Framery pod?

Accepted Answer

Framery pods are designed to feel as bright and comfortable as a well-designed workstation, with lighting levels that support focused work and video calls. The light has a natural, neutral colour tone to avoid harsh shadows or glare, and it activates automatically when the pod is in use.

If you need detailed technical specifications for a project or compliance requirement, we can share the full product information and talk you through the options.

Question 41

Can you adjust the lighting and ventilation in a Framery pod?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Framery’s smart pods let you control the lighting and airflow through a simple on-screen interface. The system automatically increases ventilation when someone is inside and switches to a lighter “refresh” mode when the pod is empty, helping keep the space comfortable throughout the day. If you prefer, you can fine-tune the settings to suit how your teams use the pod.

Question 42

What sizes do Framery pods come in?

Accepted Answer

Framery pods are available in several sizes depending on how many people you need to accommodate:

Framery One
225.5H × 122W × 100D cm
With casters: +3 cm in height
With air filter: +6.5 cm in height

Framery One Compact
225H × 103W × 100D cm
With casters: +0.5 cm in height

Framery Four & Framery Four Accessible
232.9H × 235.2W × 129.2D cm

Framery Six
209.7H × 215.4W × 254.6D cm

If you need floorplans, clearance requirements or help planning pod placements, we can provide full drawings and installation guidance.

Question 43

How does Framery handle data from their smart pods?

Accepted Answer

Framery collects only the data needed to run the smart features of their pods, and everything is managed with privacy and security built in from the start. Their software is developed in-house, and each pod is securely authenticated so that any information it sends is protected.

The system runs on trusted cloud infrastructure and follows recognised industry standards, including ISO 27001 for information security. All keys and credentials are stored only when required and always in a secure way.

If you’d like more detail on how Framery manages data or how it fits with your organisation’s IT policies, we can share their full security documentation and talk you through it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Trusted by some of the biggest brands on the planet.

Upcoming furniture project?
Talk to an expert!

Frequently Asked Questions

Trusted by some of the biggest brands on the planet.

Upcoming furniture project? Talk to an expert!

Upcoming furniture project?
Talk to an expert!