---
title: Herman Miller invented cubicles
date: "2002-12-11T12:00:00Z"
categories:
  - links
wp_id: 1003
description: I discovered that Herman Miller invented the cubicle in the 1950s. While often blamed for office misery, Robert Propst’s original design was modified after early prototypes caused psychological startle reflexes in workers. I secretly kind of like them.
keywords: [herman miller, robert propst, cubicles, office design, furniture history, action office, startle reflex]
---

[Who invented cubicles? Herman Miller, 1950s](http://www.cubesrus.com/itk/historic.shtml). Now we know whom to blame! (However, I must admit to a secret liking for cubicles.) [via MetaFilter](http://www.metafilter.com/mefi/22220)

---

## Comments

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- **L K Tucker** _21 Feb 2007 5:23 pm_:
  Robert Propst is credited with the invention according to a bio on the Herman Miller Inc. site. He denied it. His open plan system was modified when workers using the first prototypes began having mental breaks. The human vision startle reflex had worked in the "special circumstances" those first close-spaced workstations created.

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