Within the last few years, we have seen how many businesses have accepted and even embraced the shifting norms of office work. In most cases being in the office every day is no longer a stringent requirement. People are working out of home offices, hotels, cafes, and of course traditional office spaces. However, office work is still only conducted within the confines of four walls.
But what if we took work outside? We at Andy Stern’s believe that transforming outdoor spaces from drab uninspired areas to a place of collaboration for coworkers, where they can breathe fresh air, and brainstorm together only increases productivity and a happy team. Let us explore the benefits of having outdoor spaces in an office setting, the impact of working outside on employee well-being, and strategies for maximizing the potential of these collaboration spaces.
Shop outdoor office furniture from Andy Stern
By integrating pieces of outdoor furniture from a reputable source like Andy Stern Office Furniture, companies can create comfortable and inviting spaces that support both the physical and mental well-being of their workforce. This shift towards embracing the outdoors within the professional setting marks a progressive step in office design, recognizing the value of nature in fostering a healthier, happier, and more productive workforce.
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The advantages of incorporating outdoor spaces in office designs
Incorporating outdoor spaces into office designs presents a wealth of benefits that extend beyond mere aesthetics.
These areas serve as:
- Havens for creativity and mental rejuvenation
- The presence of natural elements, such as plants and sunlight, has been scientifically linked to boosting cognitive function and enhancing employee productivity.
- They play a crucial role in promoting physical health by encouraging movement
The impact of outdoor work on employee well-being
Delving into the realm of outdoor work environments reveals profound effects on employee well-being. Research highlights that immersion in nature, even in a work setting, significantly diminishes stress levels and enhances mood, providing a soothing place to shed the day’s pressures and raising morale.
The sensory experience of being outdoors, from the gentle rustle of leaves to the warmth of sunlight, naturally elevates focus and rejuvenates the mind, paving the way for increased creativity and productivity. This interaction with the natural world has nothing but positive effects on mental health. It also cultivates a positive and supportive workplace atmosphere. The opportunity to work in an outdoor setting can also serve as a powerful motivator, enriching the overall job experience and promoting a vibrant, engaged, and satisfied workforce.
Strategies for creating effective outdoor collaboration spaces
To design impactful outdoor collaboration spaces, understanding the multifaceted needs of your team is critical. Andy Stern’s recommends taking interior design concepts and ideas and bringing them outside.
Weather-resistant furniture
Select weather-resistant furniture to ensure comfort and durability for your outdoor collaborative space.
Diverse seating arrangements
Offering diverse seating arrangements like individual workstations and cafe tables and chairs to larger patio tables for team discussions and meetings can cater to varying tasks and group sizes.
Comfort elements
Shade structures and outdoor umbrellas provide relief from the sun, making the space
usable throughout the day. Chair cushions provide comfort to those utilizing the outdoor space.
Integration of technology
Wi-Fi connectivity is essential for uninterrupted work. Andy Stern’s has wi-fi signal extenders so employees can continue their work uninterrupted outdoors. Incorporating interactive elements like whiteboards or outdoor screens can facilitate creativity and dynamic interaction.
Potted plants and vertical gardens
Integrate elements of nature such as potted plants or vertical gardens to enhance the aesthetic appeal and air quality.
Best practices for integrating outdoor time into daily work routines
To effectively incorporate outdoor time into your everyday work experience, it is essential to actively promote use among employees. Facilitating outdoor meetings not only changes the scenery but also injects a fresh dynamism into brainstorming sessions and discussions. Encourage teams to step outside for their next meeting or collaborative project, offering a change of pace that can lead to unexpected bursts of creativity and problem-solving. Establishing “outdoor office hours” can also incentivize individual work time in these natural settings, blending the benefits of fresh air with focused productivity.
Organizing regular outdoor activities is another key strategy. Whether it is through casual brainstorming walks, team lunches under the sun, or creative workshops in the open air, these practices build stronger connections between colleagues and deepen their engagement with their work environment. Additionally, hosting seasonal events outdoors leverages these spaces for company-wide gatherings, fostering a sense of community and belonging among staff.
Create an outdoor office oasis today
Creating and using outdoor areas as collaborative spaces ensures employees can work to their fullest potential while maintaining a balance with the needs of the business. By thoughtfully creating, promoting and scheduling the use of outdoor collaboration spaces, businesses can enhance team cohesion, boost morale, and provide a more versatile and enjoyable work setting that enriches the overall office culture.
Contact Andy Stern Office Furniture today!
