But is there a benefit to having cubicles that an open workspaces loses out on?
Has anyone changed from a cubicle space to something else and there were regrets?
Any suggestions on updating office floor/work space?
EDIT: ok, more natural light, that is a plus of many open spaces
Over offices...
- Less real estate per worker. In theory you get more return on your workspace lease/rent/mortgage expenses with cubicles than offices or WFH.
- Ambient signal (vs noise). You learn more about what else others in your area are doing through audio/visual leaks into your space. Easier to become known to neighbors.
- Togetherness (vs isolation). You're with others AND have your own space.
- Flexibility. Cubicles used to be fast/cheap/easy to reconfigure and rearrange. Less so now.
Over shared spaces...
- Lockable elements. You can secure work-in-progress and tools and confidential materials in drawers, cabinets, and cupboards.
- Visual privacy. You don't have others looking over your shoulder as much, even incidentally.
- Visual isolation. You don't have others intruding on your peripheral vision.
Personally, I prefer an office for headsdown concentration but cafe style workspaces are cool sometimes too for the interactions. And I've grown very used to working from home but miss the watercooler effects of a workplace.
Some offices you could use for the day, some long conf tables.. some cafe style booths, rooms with projectors, areas with couches and coffee tables, heck even had a tree house you could book meetings in.
Personally i'd like the options. sometimes im heads down on a solo task other times i need 3-5 other people around.