Open vs. Closed Offices: Which Layout Is Right for Your Team?

Office design isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about performance, culture, and flow. And one of the most important decisions you’ll make is this:

Open layout or closed layout?

At CBD Projects, we’ve designed hundreds of workspaces across the UAE — from bustling sales floors to private clinics and boutique agencies. What we’ve learned is this: there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

But there is a right solution for your team — and it starts with understanding how each layout impacts focus, communication, and the day-to-day rhythm of your business. Let’s break it down.

The Open Office: Collaboration, Visibility, Energy

Open-plan offices became wildly popular in the 2010s — and for good reason. They promote cross-team interaction, flatten hierarchies, and can make small spaces feel expansive.

Pros:

Easier communication between departments

Natural light flows more freely

Promotes transparency and connection

Flexible use of space for growth

Cons:

Higher noise levels = lower concentration

Lack of privacy for sensitive calls or focused work

Can feel chaotic or overwhelming

Best for:
Creative teams, startups, agencies, and roles that thrive on collaboration and rapid iteration.

The Closed Office: Focus, Privacy, Structure

Traditional closed layouts — think private offices and enclosed meeting rooms — offer something the open plan can’t: silence and control.

Pros:

Ideal for focused work and deep thinking

Easier to host confidential conversations

Creates a clear sense of role and responsibility

Cons:

Can create isolation or silos

Less flexible for team-based workflows

May require more square footage per person

Best for:
Legal, financial, or medical teams. Senior leadership. Hybrid teams that rotate in-office presence.

The Hybrid Model: The Best of Both Worlds?

Today’s most effective offices blend both styles. They offer collaborative zones for energy — and quiet pods or rooms for privacy. This model supports every type of task, from brainstorming to bookkeeping.

Key Features:

Breakout areas with lounge seating

Phone booths or soundproof pods

Hot desks + assigned desks

Meeting rooms with acoustic treatment

At CBD Projects, we specialize in designing this kind of thoughtful hybrid environment. One that adapts to your team’s needs — not the other way around.

What to Consider When Choosing a Layout

Before jumping into trends, ask:

What percentage of our work is collaborative vs. independent?

Do we have roles that require privacy or sound control?

What’s our company culture — fast-paced and open, or structured and secure?

How often is our team in-office vs. remote?

A space should match your workflow, not just your aesthetic preferences.

Built Around Your Team, Not Just a Trend

Whether you need wide-open floors or private corners — or a smart mix of both — we can help.

At CBD Projects, we design and build commercial interiors that reflect your operations, your team, and your future growth.
All design, MEP, fit-out, and compliance handled in-house.