Today, more companies have witnessed the benefits of allowing their employees to work from home. The work arrangement is a refreshing setup that encourages flexibility and productivity. Considering this, why not try to move your home office outdoors? Designating an outdoor office can provide you a nice breeze, focus, and scenery. Likewise, it’s a great way to get sufficient vitamin D.
With summer right in the corner, you would want to take this opportunity to move your office and spend time outdoors. Surrounding yourself with nature’s beauty can help you squeeze your creative juices. On top of this, not only will this outdoor work station serve as your office, but it can also become a mini living space.
However, going to this direction will need thorough planning. Whether your station is situated in a backyard, patio, or portable container office, here are tips for setting up an outdoor office:
Consider the space
When setting up your outdoor office, you initially need to examine your space. Measure its size, identify its shape, and determine its other proportions and elements. Doing so will come in handy in helping you plan and make an informed decision regarding certain furniture items and décor.
Likewise, determining the practicality of your space will help you decide whether or not it has checked off certain requirements on your list. This can also help you decide whether it’s suitable to work there for long-term or temporarily. For instance, if the area has slippery floors, you might have to move inside every time it rains. Reconstructing your floor area might not be within your budget.
Moreover, checking the space helps you prepare for certain contingencies. For example, if bugs tend to crop up in your work corner, you need to have a bug repellent on hand. Having these solutions in arm’s reach can help support your productivity and boost your performance.
Prioritise ergonomics
Shifting to a new work area doesn’t change the fact that ergonomics matter. Comfort is the key to help you stay focus and productive at work. While it might be easy to settle with your patio chair, this may not be ideal, especially if you plan to stay in your outdoor station for quite a while.
For the meantime, you can place lumbar support pillows to support your back and a cushion to make you feel comfortable. However, if you already have enough money to spare, make sure to explore your ergonomic options.
When it comes to your seating and desk choices, select one that’s of high quality, fits your priorities, and has enough flexibility. For instance, a standing desk allows you to move freely, stay awake, and may help you develop proper posture. Alternatively, if you opt for a seating option, choose a chair that has sufficient back support to prevent strains and even injury.
Apart from this, invest in a laptop stand, wrist guard, wireless keyboard, and the like. All these can step up your work setup and help you stay sharp as you type for long periods.
The role of ergonomics can’t be underestimated. It can make your office productive, favourable, and safe. It can also help you perform better due to its comfortable and straightforward design options. Ticking off tasks from your to-do list may become a breeze, too.
Moreover, apart from your ergonomically designed pieces, make sure that your furniture pieces are comfortable. You’ll be hanging out in the place for the entire day; hence, you need to have a cosy sofa where you can relax.
Opt for weatherproof furniture
If you’re about to move your office outside, you can’t simply use the available furniture items in your house. Interior furniture isn’t designed to withstand direct sunlight and changing temperatures.
While purchasing furniture can be costly, this doesn’t mean you’ll opt for the cheap, low-quality ones. This isn’t a savvy way to save money. Instead, when buying outdoor furniture, consider weatherproof items. This can survive for long periods, ensuring a positive return of your money.
Weatherproof furniture, such as ones made of plastic, are great for outdoor work stations. If your work corner is located in an open area, this can help you stay calm even if it seems like it’s about to rain. Apart from being weather-resistant, these are also durable and need less maintenance. There are also furniture pieces that appear like furnished wood, making them visually pleasing.
Alternatively, if your office has a shady, secure spot, you can opt for quality wood furniture. However, make sure that they’re fade-resistant and they don’t rot easily due to constant environmental exposure.
Wrapping it up
Every employer wants to receive quality output from their employees. Hence, make sure to create an optimal outdoor office that’ll support you and help you stay sharp. By following the tips above, you can create a work station that’s both your place of productivity and solace.