How the Office Cubicle Changed the Way We Work (and Why It’s Coming Back)

The office cubicle, once a symbol of privacy and efficiency, has seen a resurgence in recent years. From its creation in the 1960s to its current-day revival, the cubicle represents a balance between focused work and the flexibility needed in modern workspaces. So, why is this old-fashioned idea making a comeback in today’s offices?

Cubicles revolutionized the way we work, creating private workspaces for employees.

Open-plan offices emphasize collaboration, though cubicles are making a comeback.

The cubicle was initially conceived as a solution to the large, impersonal offices of the mid-20th century. Its creator, Robert Propst, envisioned a space that gave employees both privacy and flexibility, a stark contrast to the open bullpen-style offices that dominated corporate America. When it was first introduced in the 1960s, the cubicle was revolutionary—allowing workers a personal space while still fostering collaboration within teams. Its modular nature made it easy to reconfigure office layouts, offering companies a practical way to grow or downsize without needing costly renovations.

However, by the late 20th century, cubicles had become symbols of monotony and stifling work environments, largely due to their mass implementation and often poor design. Open-plan offices, with their emphasis on collaboration and transparency, became the new standard in the early 2000s. Tech companies, in particular, embraced the open office trend, encouraging interaction and breaking down traditional workplace hierarchies.

Yet, the promise of open-plan offices came with significant downsides: noise, distractions, and a lack of privacy made it difficult for many employees to focus. Studies began to reveal that workers in open environments often felt more stressed and less productive. In this context, the humble cubicle started to regain its appeal. As businesses sought a balance between privacy and collaboration, modern cubicle designs began to offer more flexibility, with improved acoustics, integrated technology, and ergonomic features that addressed the shortcomings of earlier models.

Cubicles have since evolved into adaptable spaces designed to meet the diverse needs of the modern workforce. Today’s cubicles can be customized to offer more or less privacy, depending on the task at hand. They are also outfitted with smart technology, such as integrated charging ports, soundproofing panels, and height-adjustable desks, making them suitable for both focused work and occasional collaboration. This versatility allows companies to create a hybrid office environment that caters to various work styles.

Moreover, the resurgence of cubicles reflects broader changes in workplace culture, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As businesses adopt hybrid work models, where employees split their time between home and office, the need for personal, quiet spaces has grown. Cubicles provide an ideal solution for these hybrid environments, offering employees the option to work in a semi-private space when they are in the office, while still maintaining the flexibility needed for collaboration.

Ultimately, the cubicle has come full circle. From its initial success, through its decline during the rise of open-plan offices, to its resurgence today, the cubicle continues to play a vital role in shaping how we work. Its ability to balance personal space with collaborative potential ensures that it remains an integral part of modern office design.

Cubicles for the Modern Workplace

The office cubicle has proven its staying power, balancing privacy and productivity. At McMillan Business Interiors, we understand the evolving needs of businesses and design workspaces that combine the best of both worlds—privacy and collaboration. With our expertise in office design, we help companies create environments where employees thrive.

McMillan Business Interiors creates flexible workspaces that adapt to changing needs.