Archive for the ‘New Cubicles’ Category

Empower Maxon Cubicles Offer Strength and Versatility

Friday, February 26th, 2010

36empower12_smallBusiness owners who are serious about purchasing some of the sturdiest office furniture on the market will be interested in investigating Maxon cubicles. Steel and aluminum are combined to create a panel system that can double as ceiling height walls in the Empower collection. These panels are 3” thick and can be stacked over 10’ high with header tiles. Are you promoting an office worker to a supervisory position? Increase the height of the employee’s cube walls and add a sliding door to create an instant private office.

Frames and Panels

36empower_4_thumbCamlocktm couplers connect these metal frames together. Rather than having two or three points of contact, this patented system runs along the full length of the vertical edge of each frame. This allows you to build a solid, sturdy wall. Initial installation and later changes are fast and simple. All metal surfaces are painted, coated, or naturally corrosion resistant for durability and longevity.

Tiles can be added or replaced at any time to reconfigure or just change the appearance of these Maxon cubicles. Metal tiles are ideal for high traffic areas where more delicate surfaces may be damaged. Laminates and tackable fabrics offer attractive options to match any décor. Glass provides open design alternatives for team workspaces; whiteboards add utility to cube interiors and collaborative areas.

Electrical and Data

You can power your Empower cubicles with cabling run from the floor, walls, or ceiling. Each panel has 2” of interior space to accommodate data and power lines. Run cables through raceways along the floor line or through panel-top channels. Access can be provided at the height of the worksurface or along the baseline – whichever is most convenient.

Customization

36empower_3_thumbWith over 600 sizes and shapes to select from including curved and wraparound styles, Maxon work surfaces can be incorporated to suit any layout. Overhead storage is available with an optional “anti-slamming” option that uses a gas assist cylinder to ease the bin door back into place. Employee storage options range from towers to bookcases and shelving.

To add your company’s personal touch to your Empower Maxon cubicles, send in a digital file with your corporate logo. The manufacturer can apply images with up to 4 colors on laminate or glass segments. For an even more sophisticated look, have your logo etched into the glass tiles. This is an especially nice selection if you are using this versatile panel system to create a reception desk.

AIS Cubicles Vista Finish

Wednesday, February 24th, 2010

34 Vista FabricAre you planning the finish details for a set of AIS cubicles? Vista is one of the choices you might consider if you want neutral tones paired with an interesting texture. This surfacing option is part of the Birdseye collection by Guilford. It features pale, open weave fabric with darker threads woven through for contrast. Random oval shaped patches of light bluish gray add a rough, natural fiber look to this 100% polyester textile.

Like many of the fabrics from this manufacturer, Vista can be gently cleaned to remove soil and stains. You can test this out when you request a sample swatch directly from the Guilford mill in Maine. You should always check physical samples prior to placing a cubicle order with AIS. This gives you a chance to not only verify the color but get a feel for the weight and quality of the textile. Since most office furniture warranties don’t cover normal wear and tear on panel fabrics, you want to invest in a high quality product that will last.

Haworth Cubicle Light Wins iF Award

Wednesday, February 17th, 2010

31 LIM LightThere is no question that Light in Motion (LIM) is an innovative, practical addition to the modern office space. Last year, this Haworth cubicle LED task light took home the silver at NeoCon. Now, the lighting system has been honored with the iF product design award for 2010. It has also been a finalist in other prestigious contests such as 2009 FX International Interior Design tradeshow in the UK.

The LIM comes in 9 different models featuring both panel and worksurface mounted options for use with Haworth cubicles. Pivoting and free standing versions are available to allow these task lights to be used anywhere in the office. The LED bulbs are advertised as having a potential life span of up to 50,000 hours. They use 85% less energy than incandescent lights. This lamp has an ultra-sleek aluminum profile that will put the spotlight on functionality while blending into any work environment.

Allsteel Cubicle Options: Concensys

Tuesday, February 9th, 2010

27ConcensysAdminThere’s one thing you can always count on when you buy an Allsteel cubicle – it will feature all metal, sturdily welded construction and come with a lifetime warranty. The Concensys collection, an entry level panel system, is no exception. Allsteel advertises this product for the budget and space conscious employer. This panel system has a thin profile which shaves inches off the square footage for each workstation. It also reduces the cost of raw materials (steel can be expensive).

Each panel is fully assembled prior to shipping. This makes installation easy for the end user. With the Quick Ship option, these Allsteel cubicles can be delivered within days of order placement. You can add components at any time since newly designed options will retrofit to your existing Concensys workstations.

Helpful Features and Benefits

27 panel componentsThese panels are designed as monolithic units to reduce the number of items customers have to buy and track. To make inventory even simpler, each piece can be bar-coded for future reference. Finishes and fabrics can be selected from a wide range of choices to make these standard workstations fit into your unique business environment. Panels are available in widths from 18-60” so you can plan in 6” increments. They stack up to 108” high and include glass panel options for a more open feel.

Multiple Storage Options

This collection can integrate with other Allsteel lines such as Reach, a fully functional storage system that doubles as a space division concept. Essentials and Persona are other collections that interface seamlessly with Concensys. You can incorporate personal towers, pedestals, and overhead cabinets.  Or, you might select mobile storage products that allow you to relocate files at a moment’s notice. This is a useful option in collaborative workspaces. Moving a storage unit out of the way opens up space to accommodate an extra team member during a special project.

27ConcensysTeamingElectrical and Data Capabilities

An Allsteel cubicle wouldn’t be complete without state-of-the-art data and power access. The Concensys line provides base and desktop routing for cables. You can choose the Flexconnect option for adaptability and reliability in electrical delivery to your workstations. You can also include the AMP NETCONNECT consolidation boxes to distribute wiring to each zone in your office environment. This system can be readily reconfigured and increases the adaptability of your workstations as your company grows.

Teknion Cubicle Space Planning Tool

Friday, February 5th, 2010

25 Teknion planning toolThe next time you are in the market for a Teknion cubicle cluster, check out the free space planning tool on the manufacturer’s website. This lets you see various configurations and sort cubicles by size or product. Besides diagrams, there are also plenty of photos with clearly labeled components. The drop-down sort fields allow you to search for systems furniture by function. You can view collaborative setups, linear workstations, and compact designs that save room.

This is, of course, just a first step. You can only get a general idea of what will fit into your office using this tool. Fortunately, you have access to another free resource to help you with in-depth planning. We can help you figure out innovative ways to maximize your space and minimize your costs. Check out the refurbished Teknion cubicle selection in our Warehouse and be prepared to save some serious money.

Knoll Cubicles: Reff Stands for Refined

Wednesday, January 27th, 2010

22Reff CubicleSometimes, modern plastic laminates and grey steel just don’t give your workspace the feel you are looking for. When this happens, you can turn to Knoll cubicles in the Reff line for a solution. They are bringing back the most basic of furniture materials – wood. These quality veneer products come in 18 different finishes that deliver beauty and refinement throughout your work environment. The theme can be carried into your executive offices to supply the same distinctive appearance.

Even with the wood based nature of this system, it still meets Knoll’s high standards for sustainability. It also doesn’t leave anything out when it comes to handling your technical needs. The Reff collection just makes high-tech look high-class. You can mix in glass, metals, fashionable textiles, and trims to create a vision of confident success for your office space.

Fun Facts: Telemarketing Cubicle Art

Monday, January 25th, 2010

21In_Out_againWhen most people talk about telemarketing cubicle art, they are referring to a print or poster you can put in your cube to make it more visually interesting. However, there is another kind of artwork that has to do with the modern, enclosed workstation. Simon Currell is a British artist who brings his creative talent to bear on this seemingly mundane topic.

Currell’s piece “In Out Again” features a row of identical cubes with overhead fluorescents shining their stark light over the commoditized workplace environment. Simon’s says he draws inspiration from his own experience as a call center employee. Art aficionados will no doubt find the repetitious nature of these telemarketing cubicle images reminiscent of Warhol’s famous soup can painting. The whole Currell collection is brilliant, so take a moment to browse – just don’t get lost in the maze!

Maxon Cubicles – Verse and Versatility

Thursday, January 21st, 2010

19verseworkstationsThe Verse collection of Maxon cubicles is a grow-as-you go dream for the DIY office manager. These ultra simple panels can be integrated with the manufacturer’s modular Series 1000 & 2000 desks, but they are also intended for use with any system. Just slap together a few panels and use them to wrap your existing workstations. Make a cubicle or series of enclosures in minutes and simply add on new ones as needed.

Partitions can also be connected to construct dividers of any length to break up your office into sections. All that’s required for this are some extra T-base stabilizing feet to keep the “wall” from being knocked over. With plenty of widths and heights to choose from, you will be sure to find a set of panels to fit your space. You can even use them to create a reception station for your front office.

Verse Connection

19verseconnectorsThese Maxon cubicles are super easy to assemble. No tools are required. There are two connection angles available: 180 degree straights and 90 degree corners. Snap on 2, 3, or 4 way connecters at the top and bottom of each panel. Slide the panels together until they touch, and voila – a Verse workstation is born!

When you use Verse with Maxon desking systems, the panels may also be fastened to the desk surface to make the entire structure more resilient. Partitions can also be connected to the wall with brackets for additional support.

Partition Accessories

19versepanelsYou’ll definitely want extra reinforcement if you plan to attach shelving (which can also be installed tool-free). Secure overhead cabinets complete with locking mechanisms are another option to consider.  These steel-door bins flip open for easy access. Shelves and cabinets can both be finished to match the paint on the panel frames.

Cost-Saving Panels

If you are looking for the most budget-friendly Maxon cubicles, Verse is where you should start. You can select their basic partitions with no padding (just fabric over MDF board) or the P-Series with 1/8” of added foam. For offices with limited data and power needs, the manufacturer offers panels with no raceway.

Frames feature 1” steel tubes on the sides and the top edge. The metal surfaces are powder coated with epoxy that is baked on to create a rust and chip resistant finish. Color options for the frames are limited to black, gray, charcoal, and taupe. However, you have more choices when it comes to the panel fabric. Mauve is a particularly attractive selection for these Maxon cubicles if you want a break from earth tones.

AIS Systems Furniture – From A to Z

Tuesday, January 12th, 2010

16ao2AIS systems furniture options are noted for their simplicity, flexibility, and budget conscious style. This doesn’t keep the manufacturer from relying on high quality materials and sturdy construction methods. Many of the company’s components carry a lifetime warranty. Here’s an overview of a few of the top selections from AIS.

AO2

This second generation Action Office collection provides steel framed panels with a 2” honeycomb core. These are available in 3 different heights and twice that many widths; so you can create workspaces of any size. In addition to standards tackable surfaces, panels can be ordered with fabric laid over a hard substrate or with added acoustic control. Cubicle walls can also feature full, half, or quarter panes of glass for varying levels of privacy or openness.

The AO2 tool rails and shelving make it easy for employees to organize materials on their work surfaces. Pedestal filing cabinets with loop pull handles provide under-desk storage space. Flipper door bins can also be added above the workstation for extra capacity. These can be fabric covered or laminated to match the panels or desktop respectively. Need a full AIS systems furniture package delivered ASAP to get your office up and running? This manufacturer offers a 5-day expediting option on request.

MWall

16mwallThe MWall design features heavy duty steel frames/raceways and metal-to-metal connections. Powder coated finishes are used for this AIS systems furniture collection adding a layer of protection to these highly durable components. 10 working-day shipping is included at no extra charge for as many as 300 workstations in a single order.

Panels come in ten styles and can be finished in any of 400+ fabrics to suit the surrounding office environment. Work surfaces are available in 3 dozen shapes including wrap-around desks that extend stations around the edges of the panel frames. Whiteboards in 12 different sizes can be readily installed in MWall cubicle interiors. Keyboard trays improve workstation ergonomics for data-entry intensive tasks.

ZPanel

Wire management at beltway height is provided by the ZPanel system (which is fully compatible with MWall). This raceway cavity runs the width of the panel and is open at the edges of each section for cable continuity. Dual power is made accessible at desk height or at floor level – it’s your choice. Corner post fillers can be added to cover exposed wires. This allows power and data management to blend seamlessly with the surrounding trim on your AIS systems furniture.

Resolve Herman Miller Cubicles – An Alternative to Panel Systems

Tuesday, January 5th, 2010
Art Display Screens

Art Display Screens

Not all Herman Miller cubicles are rectangular, and not all of them actually use panels either. The Resolve collection by Turkish designer Ayse Birsel is a perfect example of how workspaces can be reinvented in unlimited ways. This happens when assumptions are tossed out so novel ideas can flourish.

What does a busy office environment really require to be functional? It needs multiple workspaces with some form of dividing structure to give employees a sense of having their “own” space. The screen and canopy concept showcased in the Resolve design addresses this essential requirement by delineating space without being restrictive.

Open and Enclosed

The 120 degree configuration of the Resolve system permits the development of a honeycombed office layout. These wider angles make Herman Miller cubicles feel more spacious while making full use of the space available. Instead of panels that are set on the ground, poles and screens are used to separate work areas. They can also be used to create pathways winding through the floor plan.

Some screens are stretched horizontally between poles. They leave open space above and below to permit the free movement of light and air throughout the office. Retractable screens furl down in sailboat fashion to create a curved cocoon of privacy for individual workers. Canopies arc loftily overhead to complete the sense of being surrounded but not boxed in.

Canopy

Canopy

Up In the Air

The vertical poles are available in sizes up to 96” and feature trusses that contain data and power cables. This is a departure from traditional routing that takes place along the baseboards of panel cubicles. Cables drop down to user level through horizontal support arms so that power outlets can be supplied at workspace height.

Artistry and Imagery

Honey Comb Layout

Honey Comb Layout

The display screens are furnished with Bubbletack fabric in a wide range of natural color combinations. Acoustic inserts may be layered between the screens to reduce noise distractions. To punctuate the office environment and add interest, graphics can be printed on these screens. Designs include outdoor scenes (beaches, trees in winter) and more iconic images like the DOT Girard daisy sculpture motif. Customization is also offered for branding these Herman Miller cubicles with a client’s logo.

Roll Down Curved Screens

Roll Down Curved Screens

Decorative Touches

The Resolve design offers lots of opportunities to add finishing touches that can make a space feel more inviting. Poles can be equipped with bud vases, coat hooks, and semi-circular shelves that allow employees to personalize their workstations. Pole-top lamps with old fashioned shades give the whole office a home like quality that puts people at ease.