Floor-to-Ceiling Cubicles: What You Need to Know Before Buying
Last Updated: October 17, 2023
Reviewed By: Ashley Smith
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Floor to ceiling modular cubicles offer the privacy of enclosed offices without the hassle of major construction. There's no need for fixed studs or sheetrock and you don't have to worry about the time commitment that comes with building renovations. This style of cubicle is the perfect solution for growing and changing businesses. According to Sanaz Ahmadpoor Samani, PhD, more privacy in the office may reduce distractions, increase employee productivity and prevent the spread of illness.
Many people are surprised to learn that floor to ceiling modular cubicles cost the same or more as hiring a contractor to build permanent offices. But, there is huge potential for savings over the long term. You can reconfigure the offices fairly easily and without spending a lot of money. If your space needs change, and modular offices can be transported to a new location if you move.
Floor to ceiling modular cubicles also have major environmental benefits over traditional construction. Instead of tearing down walls and disposing of the materials when you need to remodel, modular cubicles allow you to reconfigure a space with the materials you already have. As companies continue to place importance on environmentally-friendly business practices, many are taking a second look at floor to ceiling modular cubicles.
About Floor to Ceiling Cubicles #
Floor to ceiling cubicles can be used for offices, conference rooms or storage rooms. Some extend as high as 14 feet, but more commonly they're about 10 feet high. You can choose from a variety of materials for the walls, including acoustic fabric, laminate, metal, or glass tiles. Features like windows and locks on the doors are optional.
Like other types of cubicles, you can select the shelving and furniture that best meet your needs. Desks, shelves and filing cabinets can be integrated with the walls and arranged in an endless number of configurations. Floor to ceiling cubicles can also be wired for electrical power and data transmission by running cords through the floor, walls or ceilings.
Despite the perks, floor to ceiling modular cubicles are not the right solution for every company. If your employees need constant interaction, floor to ceiling cubicles might provide too much isolation. You also need to be cautious of safety and code issues. Building floor to ceiling cubicles can create problems with ventilation or make the building's sprinkler system non-compliant. These are issues that you should discuss when discussing these cubicles as an option with cubicle dealers.
Floor-to-Ceiling Cubicles: What You Need to Know Before Buying #
Floor-to-ceiling cubicles deliver maximum soundproofing and privacy for focused work. But they have unique considerations compared to standard cubicles.
1. Costs Are Higher
Due to more materials and complex installation, expect to pay $2,000 to $4,000 more per floor-to-ceiling cubicle compared to standard styles.
**2. Modularity Varies **
Some can be reconfigured but many floor-to-ceiling systems have fixed walls and limited flexibility to change layouts.
3. Installation Is Challenging
The height, weight, and tight fit of floor-to-ceiling panels makes professional installers a must. This adds to costs.
4. Trapped Heat Requires Ventilation
With enclosed floor and ceiling barriers, trapped heat can become an issue requiring properly spaced layouts.
5. Electrical and Data Must Be Pre-planned
Rerouting power or internet after install is difficult. All connections need planning upfront.
6. Privacy Comes at the Cost of Light
More natural light enters standard cubicles. Floor-to-ceiling blocks light and may require supplemental lighting.
7. Used Systems Are Rare
Due to custom sizing, used or leftover floor-to-ceiling cubicles are hard to source compared to standards.
Carefully weigh the pros and cons of heightened soundproofing and privacy versus the higher costs, rigidity, and other considerations that come with floor-to-ceiling workspaces.
Prices Paid for Floor to Ceiling Cubicles #
Here are some examples of real-world pricing people paid for floor to ceiling office cubicles:
"We purchased floor to ceiling Steelcase cubicles with glass panels for our executive offices. They were $8,500 each fully installed."
"We found 8x8 floor to ceiling used Herman Miller Ethospace cubicles in great shape for $3,000 each delivered. Saved over 50% versus new."
"I bought refurbished floor to ceiling Knoll Horizon cubicles with fabric panels for $4,800 per unit. They came with new LED lights installed."
"We ordered custom 9x9 floor to ceiling wooden cubicles from Aussie Workspace for $9,800 each. Pricey but they look amazing."
"Our office purchased recycled felt floor to ceiling panels from Open Office for $2,200 per cubicle. More basic but very affordable."