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What Are the Different Types of Cubicle Parts?

K.C. Bruning
K.C. Bruning

Cubicle parts can include everything from the pieces for a basic structure to accessories that customize a workspace to a user’s particular specifications. All cubicles have walls and the connectors, bases, and brackets necessary to hold them together. Beyond this, there are numerous possibilities for storage, work spaces, privacy, and electrical connections. Different configurations and accessories can be combined in a variety of ways to customize this endlessly flexible space.

Most cubicle walls are fabric-covered panels inserted into metal frames with plastic or rubber covering. A typical cubicle will have three walls, with an opening for access. Some systems also have glass panels installed in portions of the wall. Cubicles can also have ceilings and rigid or accordion style doors for added privacy.

Office cubicles.
Office cubicles.

The basic components for assembling cubicle parts include wall tracks, connectors, brackets, and bases. Wall tracks fit along the top of the cubicle walls. The connecters fit into the wall tracks at each corner in order to attach the walls. Support brackets provide additional support for the top of the walls where they connect, while bases provide support for the bottom portion in addition to holding the panels erect.

Cubicles in an office building.
Cubicles in an office building.

There are other cubicle parts which can help to reinforce or protect the assembled module. Many systems have baseboards of metal, rubber, or plastic which add stability in addition to providing protection for the base of the cubicle panels. Some systems also have end caps which provide a finishing touch by snapping onto the corners of the walls. Filler strips can be applied to the gaps between cubicle walls in order to achieve a tighter fit and increased privacy.

Cubicles can be customized to accommodate space, professional requirements, tastes and office budgets.
Cubicles can be customized to accommodate space, professional requirements, tastes and office budgets.

Beyond the basic cubicle parts, modules can be customized to accommodate space, professional requirements, tastes, and budget. Some other cubicle parts that are commonly found in offices include overhead storage bins, desk drawers, shelves, filing systems, and work surfaces. Most cubicle storage pieces tend to be made of metal, while many desk tops are made of a laminate designed to look like wood. Configuration, color, and style vary widely among these pieces, though they tend to be conservative in appearance overall. Many cubicles also have electrical outlets and overhead task lights.

There are several other cubicle parts that can be used to customize the workspace for comfort and efficiency. These include holders for paper, cups, and other supplies. There are also light shields that can be affixed to the top of the cubicle.

Discussion Comments

John57

I am an organized person and like to keep my work area clean and organized. I have worked in cubicles where all you have around you are some walls and not much else for storage.

At my current office I have a lot of overhead storage, drawers and more electrical outlets than I need. This cubicle also has very good lighting which helps keep me focused.

When it comes to office cubicle accessories, some companies will spend more money to make sure you have a little nicer place to work.

I really appreciate this and find that I am a better employee when I feel comfortable and organized in my work space.

My supervisor has a door that he can pull shut to give him more privacy in his cubicle. I can think of a lot of times when this would be nice, but I have never been in a position where I had this extra perk.

bagley79

Even though cubicles might be constructed a little differently, they are not designed to be very sound proof.

I have a co-worker who thinks that just because we have office cubicle walls that separate us, nobody can hear what she is saying.

She is on the phone a lot with personal calls and everyone who works around her can hear her end of the conversation. Even when she thinks she is talking in a soft voice, you can still hear most of what she is saying.

Even though the cubicles provide some sense of privacy, I am always aware that people can still hear my voice when I am talking.

LisaLou

I think a person's office cubicle can tell a lot about someone. Just by looking at the items they decorate their cubicle with, you get a good idea of who their family is, and what type of things they enjoy.

I have seen some cubicles that are over done though. They have so much stuff and clutter that I don't know how they can concentrate and get any work done.

I have one co-worker who even brought in a couple small pieces of used furniture to put in her cubicle. One of these was a plant stand where I think she has enough plants for everyone in the office.

Everyone has a different way of functioning, and I have to have a clean desk and minimal clutter in order to concentrate on my work.

In my cubicle I have a few pictures of my family and try to keep any other decorations simple and minimal. Those people who have a cubicle with a lot of decoration probably think mine is pretty boring.

andee

I have never given much thought before to the construction of a cubicle. My biggest concern is how my cubicle decoration can keep me inspired and motivated.

I once worked for a large insurance company where we each had an individual desk, but there were no cubicles. It was just a large open room with desks lined up next to each other.

We could have plants and pictures at our workspace during working hours, but had to take everything down at night. I had never heard of this before and so many people just didn't bother decorating at all.

I remember this being a cold, stark place to work. Now that I work in an office where I have my own cubicle, I like to keep it decorated with a lot of family pictures and things that are special to me.

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    • Office cubicles.
      By: Jesse Kunerth
      Office cubicles.
    • Cubicles in an office building.
      By: dbvirago
      Cubicles in an office building.
    • Cubicles can be customized to accommodate space, professional requirements, tastes and office budgets.
      By: naftizin
      Cubicles can be customized to accommodate space, professional requirements, tastes and office budgets.