The first 2 startups I worked for back in the early 2000's were open offices, though there were only 6 of us in one room at the first startup, and 3 at the othe

The first 2 startups I worked for back in the early 2000's were open offices, though there were only 6 of us in one room at the first startup, and 3 at the other. At the first startup, thankfully, customer service was in an open office in another part of the small building. Couldn't imagine having to work next to those conversations. In the first company it wasn't so bad, we had all our computers circled and pointed toward the center (mostly) which afforded us a little bit of privacy at least, but it was awkward looking up to have a thought and making eye contact with a fellow coder across from me. Though sometimes it was funny. I think the hardest part was the distraction of being the end-point for anyone's conversation at any time they felt like talking to me - no matter how good a coding groove I was in. Or maybe it was having to listen to 2 other coders figure out a problem together in the same office where I was trying to work. Hmm. Either way, I prefer private offices. At the next startup I went to, the computers faced the wall in the office. It was designed this way so the management could look over our shoulder all day long. Needless to say, I quit within months. Constantly being questioned why I was working in a certain file, or viewing part of the project's website that the boss didn't understand made me cringe. I'd go home grumpy everyday. I'd eat in my car at a creepy park across the street just to get away from the place. It was awful. Worked for myself ever since. In an office.