In recent years, the modern office has undergone a dramatic transformation. Gone are the days of cubicle farms and fluorescent lighting. Today’s companies are embracing more flexible, dynamic work environments, prioritizing creativity, productivity, and employee well-being. One of the most exciting trends of this shift has been the rise of the outdoor workspace.
The Allure of the Outdoor Workspace
While the idea of working outside might seem unconventional, it’s fast becoming a cornerstone of modern office design. Outdoor workspaces provide a refreshing alternative to traditional indoor settings that benefit employees in multiple ways. Studies show that exposure to nature reduces stress, improves mood, and enhances focus, boosting employee wellness. Fresh air and natural light can also fuel creativity and out-of-the-box thinking, making these spaces ideal for brainstorming and collaboration. The growth of hybrid and remote work models also makes the workplace more adaptable. Outdoor workspaces take that flexibility further, giving employees more choices on where and how they work. These spaces transform work from a routine task into an engaging, nurturing, and inspiring experience.
A Talent Recruitment Tool
Innovative companies have been experimenting with outdoor workspaces for some time, with rooftop terraces and landscaped courtyards becoming common features at many startups and co-working spaces; over the last decade, these areas have evolved from being merely desirable perks to essential tools for attracting and retaining top talent. Property owners are recognizing that integrating outdoor workspaces is among the top amenities sought by both employers and employees, prompting them to explore open-air options to entice companies and drive occupancy. A survey conducted for L.L. Bean revealed that nearly 90 percent of employees aged 22 to 65 prefer spending more time outdoors during the workday, and employers have found that access to these spaces not only strengthens employee bonds and fosters a dynamic, collaborative culture but also enhances their brand image with both employees and clients.
Designing an Outdoor Workspace
Outdoor workspaces can take many forms, from rooftop terraces and landscaped seating areas to shaded courtyards and pop-up co-working spaces. But what they all share is flexibility and a restorative exposure to nature. Whether you already have a dedicated outdoor space or want to incorporate one, the trick is to think outside the confines of traditional office design and create a relaxed, informal setting where employees can collaborate, converse, bond, and build relationships. Here are a few of our favorite iterations of outdoor workspaces.
Green and Serene Escapes
Landscaped areas such as courtyards, patios, or rooftop terraces allow workers to escape behind screens and immerse themselves in nature. Create a tranquil setting for employees to unwind, recharge, and rejuvenate with lush plants, comfy seating areas, and water features. Some of our favorite brands for transforming an outdoor space into an oasis include Andreu World, which is renowned for its sustainable, high-quality furniture designs for both indoor and outdoor spaces, particularly seating and tables, and Botton + Gardiner, which features furniture for public spaces, including park and commercial picnic furniture.
Flexible Garden Workspaces
Spaces like these allow employees to bring their tasks outdoors, blending nature with productivity. They can also be easily assembled with durable tables and chairs, shade structures, power outlets, and Wifi connectivity. Workspaces like these can enhance individual focus and encourage connection, creativity, and casual collaboration. After hours, they can even double as a spot for a networking reception or social event. Create a versatile and inviting garden workspace with brands like Landscape Forms, which produces sleek and functional furniture, including tables, chairs, umbrellas, benches, planters, lighting, charging stations, and other accessories designed to enhance outdoor spaces.
Source From Sustainable Brands
Discover sustainable furniture brands for a stylish, timeless workspace. Eco-friendly materials and craftsmanship offer durability while meeting modern design and environmental goals. Sustainable furniture combines quality with aesthetics, from recycled wood desks to renewable-resource chairs. Notable brands include Watson, which crafts furniture from reclaimed wood; Humanscale, using discarded fishing nets for ergonomic chairs; and Keilhauer, known for environmentally-conscious tables and storage. Choosing these brands lowers your carbon footprint and enhances your office’s contemporary look.
Outdoor Meeting Hubs
Alfresco meetings can boost creativity, enhance communication and foster a more relaxed yet focused work atmosphere. They provide a dynamic and engaging alternative to conventional meeting rooms and may help with team building. Turn any outdoor space into a meeting hub with long tables, lounge chairs and sofas, shade structures, heaters, and outdoor technology.
Wellness-Infused Spaces
Creating spaces where employees can be active and engage in healthy habits helps cultivate a more creative, productive work environment. From social areas with outdoor games like ping-pong, Jenga, and cornhole to yoga and fitness areas, wellness-infused spaces allow employees to take a break and recharge together. Offering dining options, either adjacent to an office space or within the office complex, can also improve productivity and well-being. Outdoor spaces are ideal for these gatherings, providing a stimulating experience that encourages repeated visits. A few of our favorite brands for furnishing spaces like these include Loll, which makes vibrant and durable outdoor furniture from partially recycled materials; Sixinch, which makes highly stylized modular furniture with foam-coated finishes; and Tropitone, which features a diverse line of outdoor cafe furniture.
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