Introduction
Summary of the book Cubed by Nikil Saval. Let’s begin by briefly exploring the book’s overview. Discover the Hidden Story Behind Your Everyday Office Cubicle Have you ever wondered why so many people spend eight hours a day in an office, surrounded by tiny partitions called cubicles? What led to the creation of these seemingly ordinary workspaces? Join us on an exciting journey through time to uncover the fascinating history of the workplace. From crowded, dimly lit rooms in the 19th century to the towering skyscrapers of today, we’ll explore the major changes that shaped how we work. You’ll meet innovative thinkers who transformed chaotic offices into organized spaces and learn how historical events influenced the way we design our workplaces. This story isn’t just about buildings and desks—it’s about the people who made our modern offices possible. Get ready to dive into the secret history of the workplace and discover why the office cubicle became a staple of our daily lives. Let’s embark on this adventure and see how the places where we work have evolved over time!
Chapter 1: How Industrialization Created the First Office Workers and Changed Work Forever.
In the mid-1800s, a huge shift called industrialization began to change the way people worked. Before this time, most people worked in farms or small workshops, doing manual labor. But with factories growing rapidly, there was a new need for workers who could handle administrative tasks like filing papers, paying bills, and keeping records. These new workers were called clerks, and they needed their own separate spaces to do their jobs efficiently. Imagine trying to organize mountains of paperwork in a crowded, dark room with no windows—that was the reality for many early clerks. Offices were tiny and cramped, often with ten people sharing just 25 square feet, similar to the size of a small bathroom today. This separation of clerks from manual workers marked the beginning of a distinct office culture, where clerks worked closely with their bosses, building strong, trusted relationships.
As more and more clerks were hired, businesses needed larger office spaces to accommodate them. This growth coincided with a clear division between manual and non-manual workers. In many cities, you would find office workers in separate buildings from factory workers, highlighting the different roles and statuses within the workforce. Even when factories and offices were under the same roof, they were often physically separated by different entrances or distinct sections. This separation wasn’t just about space; it was also about creating a hierarchy where office workers were seen as more important and their work more valuable than the physical labor done in factories. The rise of clerks and the expansion of office spaces reflected the changing economy and the increasing complexity of business operations during the industrial age.
Working closely with their bosses, clerks often became indispensable members of the business, acting as trusted assistants and helping to manage the growing complexities of modern enterprises. These relationships were crucial in an era where businesses were expanding rapidly and required efficient management to keep up with the increasing demands. However, as businesses continued to grow, the simple office setups of the past could no longer accommodate the expanding workforce. New challenges emerged, such as how to manage larger teams, maintain productivity, and organize the increasing amounts of information being processed. The need for more efficient office designs and management practices became apparent, setting the stage for the next big changes in the workplace.
As businesses grew and the number of clerks increased, the demand for more organized and efficient office spaces became critical. The cramped and poorly lit offices of the early industrial era were no longer sufficient to support the expanding workforce and the increasing complexity of business operations. This growth highlighted the need for better office management and more spacious, well-designed work environments. The rise of the office worker class and the expansion of office spaces were key factors that drove the evolution of the workplace, leading to significant changes in how offices were organized and managed in the years to come. The stage was set for innovations that would transform the workplace into the more structured and efficient environment we recognize today.
Chapter 2: The Rise of Efficiency: How Early 20th Century Innovations Transformed Offices.
As businesses continued to grow in the late 1800s and early 1900s, office spaces needed to expand and become more efficient. Imagine a clerk in 1860 doing paperwork by hand, working alongside just a few others in a small, dimly lit room. Now, picture that same clerk transported to 1920, walking into a bustling office filled with rows of typewriters, buzzing phones, and hundreds of workers all focused on their tasks. The workplace had changed dramatically, driven by technological advancements and the increasing scale of businesses. Railroads had made markets larger by connecting distant regions, while the telephone and telegraph allowed information to flow quickly over long distances. These innovations enabled businesses to grow faster and require more workers, leading to larger and more complex office environments.
With the expansion of office spaces came confusion and inefficiency. As offices became bigger, it became harder to keep track of who was doing what and where tasks were being completed. Without clear management practices, offices turned into chaotic places with workers spread out and responsibilities overlapping. This lack of organization hindered productivity and made it difficult for businesses to operate smoothly. It was clear that something needed to change to manage the growing number of workers and the increasing complexity of office tasks. The solution came from an unlikely place—a man named Frederick Taylor, an American engineer who developed a groundbreaking approach to office management known as Taylorism.
Frederick Taylor introduced the concept of breaking down work into specialized tasks, ensuring that each worker knew exactly what to do and could perform their job as efficiently as possible. This method, called Taylorism, focused on maximizing productivity by optimizing each step of a task and minimizing wasted time and effort. By dividing work into specific segments, Taylorism made it easier to manage large numbers of workers and maintain a high level of efficiency in the office. This approach quickly became synonymous with productivity and mass production, transforming the way businesses operated and leading to the establishment of formal management practices. Taylor’s ideas helped businesses cope with their rapid growth and laid the foundation for modern office management.
As Taylorism took hold, the administrative branches within businesses began to grow and develop. Offices were no longer just places where clerks filed papers and managed accounts; they became organized, efficient environments where each worker had a specific role to play. The focus on efficiency and specialization allowed businesses to handle larger volumes of work and expand their operations even further. Management became a distinct field of knowledge, with professionals dedicated to overseeing and improving office processes. This shift not only increased productivity but also changed the dynamics within the workplace, as employees became more specialized and their roles more clearly defined. The advancements in office management set the stage for the continued evolution of the workplace, paving the way for the next wave of innovations in office design and organization.
Chapter 3: The Birth of Skyscrapers: How Tall Buildings Revolutionized Office Spaces.
Have you ever looked up at a towering skyscraper and wondered how such massive buildings came to be the home of countless offices? By the mid-20th century, skyscrapers had become symbols of ambition and success, reshaping the modern office landscape. These towering structures allowed businesses to stack multiple offices vertically, maximizing space in crowded urban areas. Cities like Chicago and New York saw a boom in skyscraper construction, with millions of square feet of office space being built to accommodate the growing number of businesses and workers. These buildings weren’t just tall; they were designed to impress, showcasing the prosperity and power of the companies that occupied them.
Inside these impressive skyscrapers, however, the reality was quite different from their grand exteriors. The offices themselves were often dull and utilitarian, focused more on functionality than aesthetics. Despite the impressive facades, the interiors were designed to meet the practical needs of office workers, with rows of desks, filing cabinets, and basic furnishings. To make office workers feel valued and distinct from factory workers, businesses added various amenities to these buildings. Libraries, barber shops, dentists, and other facilities were included to enhance the work environment and provide conveniences for employees. These additions aimed to create a sense of community and well-being among office workers, making them feel special and important within the larger business enterprise.
The rise of skyscrapers also reflected the growing divide between labor and capital in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As labor movements gained momentum, workers began to demand better wages, working conditions, and rights. In response, business leaders sought to distinguish their office workers from factory workers, who were often seen as part of the labor movement and potential agitators. By creating luxurious office environments with various amenities, businesses aimed to cultivate a separate and privileged class of workers who were loyal and less likely to support labor unrest. This strategic separation helped maintain control over the workforce and reinforced the social hierarchy within the workplace, ensuring that office workers remained a stable and productive part of the business.
The construction of skyscrapers also had a significant impact on urban development and the organization of cities. These tall buildings became landmarks, shaping the skylines of major cities and attracting businesses from all over the world. The concentration of offices in skyscrapers created bustling business districts, where commerce, innovation, and industry thrived. The vertical expansion of office spaces allowed cities to accommodate more businesses without spreading out horizontally, preserving valuable land and creating more efficient urban environments. This trend continued into the 20th century, as skyscrapers became the preferred choice for businesses looking to establish a prominent presence in major cities. The legacy of skyscrapers lives on today, as they remain central to the identity and functionality of modern urban workplaces.
Chapter 4: Post-War Innovations: How War Changed Office Design for the Better.
After World War II, the way offices were designed underwent a significant transformation, leading to more open and flexible workspaces. During the war, many European cities were heavily bombed, destroying buildings and forcing architects and planners to rethink how office spaces should be organized. In post-war Germany, the devastation provided a blank slate for innovative urban design ideas. Two brothers, Wolfgang and Eberhard Schnelle, emerged as pioneers in creating more human-centered office environments. They founded a space planning firm called Quickborner and introduced a new concept called Bureau Landschaft, or office landscape, which focused on making offices more comfortable and efficient for the people working in them.
Unlike the rigid, hierarchical office layouts of the past, the Schnelle brothers believed that office spaces should be designed around how people interact and work together. They emphasized the importance of communication, collaboration, and the natural flow of work processes. Instead of placing desks in neat, straight rows, they arranged them in more organic patterns that allowed for easier movement and interaction among workers. This approach recognized that offices are not just places to work but environments that influence how people think, communicate, and collaborate. By prioritizing the human experience, the Schnelle brothers’ designs aimed to create more dynamic and productive workplaces.
The Bureau Landschaft concept quickly gained popularity across Europe and beyond, as businesses saw the benefits of more flexible and engaging office environments. In Sweden, architects began adopting these ideas, creating offices that encouraged teamwork and creativity. The concept even spread to England and the United States, where companies were eager to modernize their workspaces and move away from the dull, cramped offices of the past. The shift towards more open and organic office designs reflected a broader change in how businesses viewed their employees—not just as workers, but as individuals whose well-being and creativity were essential to the company’s success. This new perspective helped foster a more positive and productive work culture, setting the stage for further innovations in office design.
In the United States, the adoption of organic office designs marked a significant departure from traditional office layouts. Companies began to prioritize creating environments that supported both individual work and collaborative efforts. This led to the introduction of features like open workspaces, flexible seating arrangements, and areas designated for meetings and brainstorming sessions. The goal was to create offices that could adapt to the changing needs of the workforce, promoting both efficiency and employee satisfaction. As businesses continued to evolve, the demand for more adaptable and human-centered office designs grew, encouraging architects and designers to push the boundaries of traditional office architecture even further.
The post-war innovations in office design also had a lasting impact on how businesses operated and how employees experienced their work environments. By creating spaces that fostered better communication and collaboration, companies were able to enhance their productivity and creativity. Employees felt more connected and engaged in their work, leading to higher job satisfaction and better overall performance. These changes not only improved the immediate work environment but also influenced future trends in office design, paving the way for the open office layouts and collaborative workspaces that are popular today. The legacy of the Schnelle brothers and the Bureau Landschaft concept continues to shape modern offices, demonstrating the enduring importance of thoughtful and human-centered design.
Chapter 5: The Noise Problem: How Open Offices Led to the Invention of the Cubicle.
Imagine walking into a bustling office with an open floor plan, where everyone is typing, talking, and moving around. It sounds lively, but it can also be incredibly noisy and distracting. In the 1960s, as open office designs became more popular, the noise levels in workplaces skyrocketed, making it difficult for employees to concentrate and be productive. To tackle this problem, designers experimented with different solutions, such as placing sound screens between desks. These screens were meant to block out some of the noise, but they often failed to make a significant difference. Moreover, the availability of these sound screens depended on an employee’s position in the company hierarchy, with executives more likely to receive better noise protection than lower-level workers.
The sound screens ended up being more of a status symbol than an effective solution to the noise problem. High-pitched sounds and ringing phones could still be heard clearly, making the screens largely ineffective at reducing overall noise levels. Additionally, the unequal distribution of sound screens reinforced the existing social hierarchy within the office, further separating executives from general workers. Employees who did not receive sound screens continued to struggle with the constant noise, leading to frustration and decreased productivity. It became clear that more substantial changes were needed to create a more conducive working environment in open office spaces.
Around the same time, another innovative idea emerged from the U.S. firm Herman Miller Furniture Company. They hired art professor Robert Propst to help expand their office furniture business, focusing on improving the physical environment for office workers. Propst believed that since office work was primarily mental, the physical workspace should support both the mental and physical well-being of employees. He introduced the concept of the Action Office, which promoted a balance between standing and sitting, and included features like movable display surfaces and modular walls. These elements were designed to provide employees with the flexibility to adjust their workspaces according to their needs, enhancing both comfort and productivity.
Despite the promising ideas behind the Action Office, the reality was that such innovative office designs were too expensive for many businesses. Companies were more focused on finding affordable solutions to their immediate problems, rather than investing in progressive ideas that required significant financial outlay. This economic pressure led to the invention of the cubicle—a cheap, small, and enclosed workspace that could be easily implemented in large numbers. Cubicles offered a cost-effective way to create individual workspaces within open offices, providing a semblance of privacy and reducing some of the noise without the high costs associated with more advanced office designs. The rise of the cubicle marked a pivotal moment in office design, as it became a practical solution to the challenges posed by open office environments.
The introduction of cubicles fundamentally changed the office landscape, offering a middle ground between the noisy, chaotic open offices and the expensive, flexible designs of the Action Office. While cubicles provided some level of privacy and noise reduction, they also had their own set of drawbacks. Employees often felt confined and isolated within their small partitions, leading to a less collaborative and more segmented work environment. Despite these issues, the cubicle became a popular choice for many businesses due to its affordability and ease of installation. Over time, cubicles became synonymous with the modern office, shaping the way workplaces were organized and influencing employee experiences for decades to come.
The story of how cubicles came to dominate office spaces highlights the complex interplay between innovation, practicality, and economic factors in workplace design. While the desire for more open and flexible work environments continued to grow, the need for cost-effective solutions often took precedence, leading to the widespread adoption of cubicles. This balance between idealistic design and practical implementation remains a key consideration in modern office planning, as businesses strive to create environments that support both productivity and employee well-being. The evolution of the office—from crowded, inefficient spaces to organized cubicles and beyond—reflects the ongoing quest to find the perfect balance between functionality, comfort, and cost in the workplace.
Chapter 6: Beyond the Cubicle: Exploring Modern Office Designs That Break the Mold.
As the years went by, the limitations of cubicles became more apparent, prompting businesses to explore new ways of designing office spaces that better meet the needs of their employees. While cubicles provided a cost-effective solution, many workers found them restrictive and uninspiring. Companies began to seek alternatives that could foster greater collaboration, creativity, and employee satisfaction. This led to the development of various modern office designs that aimed to break free from the traditional cubicle layout and create more dynamic and engaging work environments.
One popular trend that emerged was the open office layout, which removed many of the barriers between employees and encouraged more interaction and teamwork. Open offices often feature large, shared spaces where workers can easily communicate and collaborate on projects. This design aims to create a more inclusive and flexible work environment, where ideas can flow freely and employees can work together more seamlessly. However, open offices also come with their own set of challenges, such as increased noise and distractions, which can impact productivity and focus. To address these issues, some companies have incorporated designated quiet areas or private meeting rooms within open office spaces, providing a balance between collaboration and concentration.
Another innovative approach to office design is the use of flexible workspaces, which allow employees to choose where and how they work based on their individual preferences and tasks. Flexible workspaces can include a mix of different environments, such as open areas for collaboration, private booths for focused work, and comfortable lounge areas for relaxation and informal meetings. This variety of spaces caters to different working styles and needs, helping employees stay productive and engaged throughout the day. Additionally, flexible workspaces can be easily reconfigured to accommodate changing team sizes and project requirements, making them a versatile and adaptable solution for modern businesses.
In recent years, the concept of the ‘activity-based workspace’ has gained popularity, emphasizing the importance of aligning office design with the specific activities that employees perform. This approach involves creating distinct zones within the office, each tailored to different types of work, such as brainstorming sessions, individual tasks, or client meetings. By providing a variety of environments that support different activities, activity-based workspaces aim to enhance productivity and employee satisfaction. This design philosophy recognizes that a one-size-fits-all approach is no longer effective, and that providing employees with the right tools and environments for their tasks can lead to better outcomes for both individuals and the organization as a whole.
The evolution of office design continues to adapt to the changing needs of the workforce and advancements in technology. With the rise of remote work and digital collaboration tools, businesses are rethinking how they utilize physical office spaces. Many companies are adopting hybrid work models, where employees have the flexibility to work from both the office and remote locations. This shift has led to the creation of more versatile and technology-enabled office environments, designed to support seamless communication and collaboration regardless of where employees are working. As office designs continue to evolve, the focus remains on creating spaces that enhance productivity, foster innovation, and support the well-being of employees.
Chapter 7: The Future of Workspaces: How Technology and Innovation Will Shape Offices Tomorrow.
Looking ahead, the future of office design promises to be even more exciting and transformative, driven by rapid advancements in technology and changing work habits. As businesses continue to embrace digital tools and automation, office spaces will need to adapt to support these new ways of working. Smart office technologies, such as automated lighting, climate control, and interactive displays, are becoming increasingly common, creating more efficient and responsive work environments. These technologies not only enhance the functionality of office spaces but also contribute to a more comfortable and personalized experience for employees.
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are also set to play a significant role in the future of office design. These technologies can revolutionize the way we visualize and interact with office spaces, allowing for immersive planning and customization of work environments. For example, VR can be used to create virtual office tours, enabling employees to experience different layouts and configurations before any physical changes are made. AR, on the other hand, can provide real-time information and interactive elements within the office, enhancing collaboration and productivity. By integrating VR and AR into office design, businesses can create more engaging and adaptable workspaces that cater to the evolving needs of their workforce.
Sustainability is another key focus for the future of office design. As environmental concerns become increasingly important, businesses are seeking ways to create more eco-friendly work environments. This includes using sustainable materials, implementing energy-efficient systems, and designing spaces that promote natural light and air flow. Green office designs not only reduce the environmental impact of businesses but also contribute to the health and well-being of employees. Research has shown that sustainable workspaces can improve air quality, reduce energy costs, and create a more pleasant and motivating environment for workers. As a result, sustainability is becoming a central consideration in modern office design, driving innovation and encouraging businesses to adopt more responsible practices.
The rise of remote and hybrid work models is also shaping the future of office design, as businesses seek to create spaces that support flexibility and connectivity. Offices of the future will likely feature a mix of traditional workstations, collaborative hubs, and remote-friendly areas equipped with advanced communication tools. This hybrid approach allows employees to seamlessly switch between in-office and remote work, ensuring that they remain connected and productive regardless of their location. Additionally, the integration of cloud-based technologies and digital collaboration platforms will enable more efficient and effective teamwork, further enhancing the versatility of modern office spaces.
As the workplace continues to evolve, the importance of employee well-being and mental health will remain a top priority in office design. Future workspaces will likely incorporate elements that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and physical health, such as wellness rooms, meditation spaces, and fitness areas. By prioritizing the holistic needs of employees, businesses can create environments that not only support productivity but also foster a positive and healthy work culture. This focus on well-being will help attract and retain top talent, as employees increasingly seek workplaces that value their overall health and happiness.
In conclusion, the future of office design is poised to be shaped by a blend of technology, sustainability, flexibility, and a deep commitment to employee well-being. As businesses continue to innovate and adapt to the changing landscape of work, office spaces will become more intelligent, sustainable, and human-centered. By embracing these trends, companies can create work environments that not only enhance productivity and collaboration but also support the long-term success and satisfaction of their employees. The journey of office design is far from over, and the offices of tomorrow hold endless possibilities for creating better, more inspiring places to work.
All about the Book
Explore the evolution of office culture and design in ‘Cubed’ by Nikil Saval. This insightful book examines how workspaces shape our lives, offering a compelling commentary on modern labor and its architectural implications.
Nikil Saval is a celebrated writer and critic, known for his insightful analysis of contemporary society and architecture, offering unique perspectives on how our environment affects our work and life.
Architects, Urban Planners, Human Resource Managers, Corporate Strategists, Workplace Designers
Architectural Design, Sociology, Interior Decorating, Office Organization, Workplace Analysis
Workplace Culture, Employee Wellbeing, Architecture and Design, The Evolution of Office Spaces
The spaces we inhabit shape our interactions and thoughts, reminding us that our environment is a critical component of our productivity.
Malcolm Gladwell, Richard Florida, Jane Jacobs
Prose Award for Best Social Science Book, Best Non-Fiction Book of the Year 2023, National Book Critics Circle Award Nominee
1. How do office spaces shape our work habits? #2. What is the evolution of the modern workplace design? #3. How did cubicles become the staple of offices? #4. What role does architecture play in employee productivity? #5. How do layouts influence team dynamics and collaboration? #6. Can we trace the origins of corporate culture here? #7. How do open offices affect concentration and privacy? #8. What historical factors influenced office design trends? #9. How do spatial arrangements impact employee wellbeing? #10. What is the significance of the desk as a symbol? #11. How do different industries require unique space configurations? #12. What are the psychological effects of cubicle work? #13. How does design reflect corporate values and identity? #14. What are the pros and cons of remote work spaces? #15. How do employee needs shape office design choices? #16. What lessons can we learn from failed office designs? #17. How does technology influence the future of workspaces? #18. What is the relationship between office aesthetics and morale? #19. How can we balance personal space with collaboration needs? #20. What innovations are emerging in modern office environments?
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