A cubicle oroffice cubicle is a partially enclosed workspace, separated from neighboring workspaces by partitions that are generally five to six feet high. A cubicle is partially or entirely open on one side to allow access. A cubicle's purpose is to isolate office workers from the sights and noises of an open workspace, the theory being that this allows workers more privacy and helps them to concentrate without distractions. Horizontal work surfaces are usually suspended from the partitions of cubicles with the use of cantilevers, as is shelving, overhead storage, and other amenities.
On the positive side the cubicle offers an occasion for customization by its users which is not comparable to other desk forms, past or present. The secret is that it can transform all of the walls surrounding the white collar worker into productive work surfaces, or nooks for personal expression. Because all of the walls are within grasp or reach all of the time, and because many of them offer holes and hooks for hanging small shelves, bulletin boards or other accessories, elements which were once placed only on the horizontal surface of the desktop can be moved to the vertical surfaces all around. While the makers of cubicle desks usually employ proprietary standards for their fasteners and accessory hooks, this has not stopped the makers of small-scale desktop accessories from producing and marketing myriads of pen holders, magazine racks, and other items which are made to fit the most popular brands of cubicle desk partitions.
Note that it is also possible to create a cubicle-filled office environment without the use of cubicle desks by combining traditional free-standing desk forms like the pedestal desk with special types of free-standing partitions.
Used Cubicles. Significant savings can be found when purchasing used cubicles. For example, a new cubicle can cost up to $5,000.00 per workstation, including cubicle installation. However, used office cubicles can be bought at a fraction of the price of new - often ranging around $500.00 to $1,100.00 per cube.
Refurbished Cubicles. Another option to consider is "refurbished" or remanufactured cubicles. Here, the refurbisher will use new cubicle fabric, powder-coat paint and new laminate worksurfaces. These cubicles typically go for around $1,300.00 to $2,200.00 per cubical, depending on the size and options selected. This option is also environmentally friendly.