DIY Office Partitions

An office partition can create a productive workspace for your employees.

Office spaces are not always set up to provide an efficient work environment. If your office space is open, unorganized and encourages constant chatter, consider office partitions. Cubicle systems are often more complex and expensive than a small office needs, but basic office partitions are an affordable alternative. Acquire a few materials and some tools that you probably have around the garage and you will be able to improve your office considerably.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• 2 sheets hardwood plywood, each 3/4 by 48 by 96 inches
• 5 boards lumber, each 2 by 4 by 96 inches
• Miter saw
• Wood screws, 1 box
• Screw gun
• Fine grit sandpaper
• Paint of your choice
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Measure the height from floor to ceiling in the space that you want to place the partition. Cut two boards of lumber to that measurement with a miter saw. These are the sides of the frame for the partition.

2. Place the two partition frame sides parallel to one other approximately 96 inches apart. Place two boards of lumber between the sides, one at the top and one at the bottom. Place the remaining piece of lumber between the sides, 48 inches up from the bottom. Fasten the assembly together using wood screws and a screw gun.

3. Place one sheet of plywood over the assembly. Make sure the panel is flush with the bottom and sides. Fasten the plywood to the frame using wood screws and a screw gun. Turn the assembly over and fasten the remaining plywood sheet in place in the same manner.

4. Sand the entire assembly with fine grit sandpaper. This will be your partition wall. Make as many as needed for your office space. Apply a wood finish to each partition wall with a paint brush. Allow the finish to dry before handling.

5. Position the partition wall in place by tipping it upright. The assembly should be tight against the floor and ceiling. Fasten the top board to the ceiling using wood screws and a screw gun. Space the screws approximately 12 inches apart. This will hold the partition in place safely. Follow the same procedure to install any additional partitions that you made.

Tips & Warnings

• Allow your employees to personalize the partition walls within their workspace.

• Hire an artist to paint a custom art piece on the wall between each partition, to add interest to the space and boost morale.

• Wear eye protection when sanding wood.

References

• Ask the Builder: Temporary Partition Wall

Resources

• Apartment Therapy: How to Keep Distractions a Bay in an Open Office Space