Optimizing Outdoor Workspaces

As outdoor dining and time spent outside continue to be staples of the warmer months, the workplace is evolving right along with it, with outdoor workspaces becoming an increasingly valuable extension of the office. Instead of being tied to desks all day, employees are looking for more flexibility in where and how they work. Brining the open air into the workday can support both productivity and overall employee experience.

Depending on your location, there may be room to transform outdoor spaces, such as patios, surrounding green space, or even smaller entryways, into an outdoor oasis for employees. Create areas for collaboration or solitary work with a few easy upgrades. No matter the climate, you can take advantage of seasonal weather and create long-lasting outdoor spaces that employees will love

Step Up the Wi-Fi for Outdoor Workspaces

A major hurdle for outdoor productivity starts with technology. Employees can only do so much work without laptops, and meetings require reliable connectivity. Add Wi-Fi extenders and additional routers to outdoor areas to ensure there’s a strong enough signal to support day-to-day work from anywhere.

Choose the Right Seating

Choose seating and tables that can facilitate all sorts of working needs. While there's always room for laid-back, relaxing options, more traditional tables and benches can accommodate meetings, lunches, or independent work.

Outdoor mainstays are readily available for these workspaces. Picnic benches can even serve as alternative meeting tables, while modular or movable furniture allows teams to easily adapt the space to their needs.

Materials Matter when Outdoors

Use materials designed and proven for outdoor use to protect against the elements and ensure long-term durability. Solid plastics, resin and outdoor laminates are all great options for indoor/outdoor use. If you're considering metal, look for stainless or powder-coated finishes that resist corrosion and rust.

Create Shade in Outdoor Workspaces

To keep laptops glare-free and employees comfortable, make sure your space includes adequate shade. Umbrellas—either mounted through tables or in a cantilever style—offer flexibility, while awnings or partial overhangs can provide more permanent coverage. These solutions also help protect your furniture and extend its lifespan.

Expand Your Area

Not all offices have large patios or dedicated outdoor zones, but even smaller spaces can make an impact. A few chairs out front, simple benches or side-area seating can provide a refreshing change of scenery

Seating alone doesn’t suit every work style. Even in tighter areas, consider keeping a few folding or lightweight tables nearby so employees can easily create a functional workspace when needed. Movable furniture can encourage more frequent use without requiring a permanent setup.

Power Up

Make sure employees can stay charged with access to power. Extension cords or portable power stations can help support longer work sessions outdoors without requiring employees to head back inside.

Embrace the Great Outdoors

When the weather’s right, incorporating natural elements can elevate the entire space. Add potted plants or enhance existing landscaping to create a more inviting atmosphere. Taller greenery can also help define different areas or provide subtle separation between work zones

Don’t Stop the Cleaning 

Just because you're outdoors doesn’t mean maintenance can be overlooked. Regular cleaning helps preserve furniture and keeps the space ready for use. Keep supplies nearby so surfaces can be quickly wiped down and maintained as needed..