Office Design

LET THE SUN SHINE IN

Cubicles often cut out daylight, which can be a huge psychological blow. And although originally designed to encourage interaction, cubicles can make workers feel disconnected or closed off.

Analysis: "Loss of daylight and views is a problem in a lot of cubicle environments," Heerwagen says. "Views help you feel connected to what's going on outside the building."

Solution: Lowering the panels lets more natural light to pass through, but also allows for more distractions. An alternative would be to panel the top of dividers with glass or glazing so that light—but not sound—passes through.