Floor Boxes vs. Ceiling Power. Which Is Better for Open Spaces?

As open spaces become the norm in both residential and commercial design, planners are faced with an important electrical decision: 

Should power come from the floor—or from the ceiling? 

Both floor boxes and ceiling-mounted power solutions can work well when applied correctly. Problems arise when the wrong approach is used for the space. 

Why Open Spaces Change the Power Conversation 

Open spaces differ from traditional rooms in keyways: 

• Furniture often floats away from walls
• Layouts change more frequently
• Multiple activities happen in the same area
• Clean sightlines and aesthetics matter

In these environments, perimeter wall outlets alone are rarely sufficient. 

Floor Boxes: Power From Below 

Floor boxes bring power up from the floor surface, placing outlets directly within the usable space. 

Where floor boxes excel: 

• Furniture sits away from walls 
• Power is needed near seating or work areas 
• Flexibility is important 
• Visual clutter must be minimized 

Common applications include: 

• Living rooms with floating furniture 
• Conference tables 
• Open offices 
• Hospitality and event spaces 

Because floor boxes stay close to furniture, they reduce cord length and eliminate trip hazards. 

Considerations With Floor Boxes 

Floor boxes require: 

• Early planning 
• Coordination with flooring 
• Proper traffic ratings 
• Thoughtful placement away from walkways 

When planned early, floor boxes often disappear into the design. 

Ceiling Power: Power From Above 

Ceiling-mounted power typically comes in the form of: 

• Power poles 
• Drop-down cords 
• Pendant-mounted power solutions 

Where Ceiling Power Makes Sense 

Ceiling power works best when: 

• Furniture layouts change frequently 
• Power needs shift often 
• Floor penetration is undesirable 
• Spaces are highly flexible or temporary 

Common applications include: 

• Co-working spaces 
• Training rooms 
• Temporary exhibits 
• Industrial or creative environments 

Limitations of Ceiling Power 

While flexible, ceiling power has drawbacks: 

• Visual clutter in clean or residential designs 
• Limited reach without long cords 
• Potential interference with lighting 
• Less suitable for seated, low-profile furniture 

Aesthetics vs. Adaptability 

The decision often comes down to priorities. 

Floor boxes prioritize: 

• Clean design 
• Permanent infrastructure 
• Seamless integration 

Ceiling power prioritizes: 

• Maximum adaptability 
• Minimal floor modification 
• Easy reconfiguration 

Combining Both Approaches 

Some of the most successful open spaces use both floor and ceiling power strategically. 

Examples include: 

• Floor boxes for permanent seating or tables 
• Ceiling power for flexible or temporary areas 

Code, Safety, and Ratings Matter 

Regardless of approach, all power solutions must meet: 

• Electrical code requirements 
• Traffic and load ratings 
• Proper installation standards 
• Safety and accessibility guidelines 

Planning Early Prevents Compromises 

Late-stage electrical decisions often force: 

• Visible cords 
• Awkward layouts 
• Costly changes 

Early coordination allows power solutions to support both function and aesthetics. 

Application-Driven Power Solutions 

Manufacturers like Lew Electric offer a range of power solutions—from floor boxes to flexible access systems—designed to support open spaces with varying needs. 

Reviewing application-specific options early at www.lewelectric.com helps ensure alignment with design intent and real-world use. 

Final Takeaway 

Floor boxes and ceiling power aren’t competitors—they’re tools. 

The best choice depends on how a space is used, how often it changes, and how important aesthetics are. 

In open spaces, power works best when it’s planned intentionally—whether it comes from above, below, or both.