One of the benefits of working from home is the ability to create a workspace tailored to your specific tastes. If you’re interested in changing your scenery at certain points throughout the year, why not work outside? Enjoy the benefits of the great outdoors by learning how to create a functional outdoor workspace at home.
Choose the Right Location
Before you move all your office equipment outside, it’s important to choose the right location for your workspace. If possible, a covered porch or gazebo works well to shield both yourself and your supplies from the elements. If you don’t have a covered structure in your backyard, make sure you set up a patio umbrella or canopy near your workstation. After all, working outside is all fun and games until you end up with a nasty sunburn!
If you plan to work outdoors for an extended period and you want to minimize distractions, consider setting up shop in a shed or detached garage. It may take more effort to convert these types of structures into usable workspaces, but you’ll have a clear physical boundary between your home and work life.
Determine Your Layout
The next step in creating a functional outdoor workspace at home is deciding the best layout for your needs. Perhaps the two biggest considerations when determining your setup are clear access to an electrical outlet and a strong Wi-Fi signal. Since you’ll most likely be working on a computer, you’ll need to be able to plug it in and have reliable internet access.
If you spend plenty of time each day on video calls with clients and colleagues, you’ll also need to have a proper lighting solution. You don’t want to be sitting directly in the sun or be completely backlit, so think about the best direction for your desk or outdoor table to face.
Incorporate Flowers and Plants
One of the biggest benefits of working outdoors is the opportunity to be surrounded by nature. You can easily add natural beauty to your workspace with plants and flowers. Plants also reduce stress levels, improve air quality, and provide a beautiful ambience, meaning there are many beneficial reasons to incorporate them into your workstation.
If you don’t exactly have a green thumb or know which plants will work best in your climate zone, head to your local nursery or garden center for suggestions. Additionally, if you’re not interested in regularly maintaining plants and flowers, look for low-maintenance options that will still thrive in your specific outdoor conditions. Regardless of your skill level, you can create a peaceful outdoor office with the help of beautiful flora.
Whether you strictly work from home or occasionally head into the office, the benefits of expanding your exterior footprint cannot be overstated. If you have the space and amenities needed to create a comfortable outdoor office, what are you waiting for? Take advantage of your remote work environment and head outside today!
