I'm a millennial who thought cubicles were a dreary relic from the '90s — then I realized they can be social and personal

Fri, 03/15/2024 - 05:00

Sydney Baker sitting in front of an office cubicle. There is a chair behind her and a desk with a laptop and computer monitor on it. — Sydney Baker started working in an office cubicle in July 2023.
Courtesy of Bradley McKee

Sydney Baker, 27, previously thought office cubicles were outdated and dreary.
When she started working in one, she decorated it to make it feel like her own space.
She said cubicles can actually mean more socializing — but it can be hard to maintain focus.

This as-told-to essay is based on a transcribed conversation with Sydney Baker, 27, about her experience working in office cubicles. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I was raised by a single mother who worked long hours.

Sometimes, she'd take me to work with her. It introduced me to the daily grind. You get your coffee, add sugar, sit at your desk, answer calls, and take notes.