How to Create an Outdoor Workspace
Seven Things You Need for Optimal Productivity Outside
For many professions, remote working is here to stay. But who wants to work when the weather is beautiful outside? One way to combat your restlessness is to create a comfortable workspace outdoors. So, even if you have to work, at least you can do it in a beautiful setting.
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1) Shade
Designing an outdoor workspace has the added challenge of protecting your work and yourself from outside elements. You may wish to work outdoors, but you don't want to get sunburned. Shade protects you from harmful UV rays and makes work more pleasant on hot days. Most importantly, it reduces the glare on your computer screen, so you can get something done.
Shade can be as simple as an umbrella or tree or as extravagant as a freestanding building. Check out our Patio Shade 101 post for a range of options.
If you already have a covered patio for your outdoor office, you could consider adding patio shades to control the sunlight throughout the day. We have some beautiful and functional options to choose from in our showroom. Stop by to see!
2) Comfortable Seating
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Just like working indoors, you will benefit from using comfortable seating. Soft yet firm options are best because they offer padding while helping you maintain good posture, ultimately assisting with your productivity.
If you plan to purchase new pieces for your outdoor office, being able to test them is vital. The second best option is ordering new furniture someone else has recommended.
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3) Work Surface
Don't let the name deceive you; laptops are not for laps and can even be dangerous. You'll want a designated work surface if you plan to make working outside a regular habit. We love these desks that attach to railings for people with limited space. Or, consider investing in a lovely patio table that compliments your comfortable seating.
4) Power Outlet
Nothing kills productivity more than running out of power. Make sure you station yourself near a power outlet. If you don’t have one available outside, you could also use an extension cord or have a mega battery handy.
5) Organizer
Image Credit: Delphi Leather
An organizer will help you keep up with your essential items and papers as you move inside and outside your home to work. You don't want to rush inside to escape a thunderstorm and realize you left something important in the rain. What you use to organize yourself could be as simple as a clipboard or as involved as a portable filing system. We like this leather case from Delphi Leather as an option.
6) Bug Repellant
If bugs are a problem in your yard, you need to have a strategy for keeping them from biting and bothering you.
Here are some options:
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A screened-in area to keep them out
Fans to blow them away
Bug-repelling plants or essential oils such as citronella, lavender, marigolds, nasturtiums, rosemary, basil, and mint
Bug-repelling candles
Bug repellant spray
7) Background
If your job requires video meetings, you should consider your background. Your yard may already have the perfect setting. If not, a living wall is an attractive option. Also, you could invest in screens or sheers, such as the ones we offer at the design center from Hunter Douglas. These ideas offer the added benefit of sectioning your work area away from other parts of your outdoor space, which is especially helpful if children may be playing outside while you are working.