Working outside? Great for body and mind!

As children, we used to play outside for hours on end. But as we grew older, we seem to have gotten increasingly stuck to our chairs. According to the American Environmental Protection Agency, we spend a mere seven percent of our lives outside. It wouldn’t hurt to add a couple of percentage points to that figure. Living and working outside is healthy for body and mind. Plus, research shows that working in a natural setting improves well-being and productivity. The weather is great, time to head out and get some work done in the fresh air.

There is a wealth of scientific research confirming that the brain functions better and more creatively outside. The Scandinavian countries are particularly aware of this fact. They spend a much larger part of their lives in the outdoors. Working people meet outside much more often there, for a meeting or some friendly drinks, for example. But we still tend to limit our focus to the physical well-being of employees with a lot of emphasis on exercise and physical health. Much less attention is paid to the mental aspect while the younger generation in particular has higher expectations than that. They hold sustainability and vitality very dearly as well. And working outside aligns with that need very well.

Working outside as a third word mode?

It is easier to relax and find peace of mind when surrounded by nature. Our brain simply works better. Outdoor air makes us much more effective and creative. Employees who work outside on a regular basis are much more productive and healthier, which reflects back onto the employer. So, why spend our lives working at home and in the office if the outdoors bear a better return? They call it the ‘outdoor effect’. It also offers you as an employer a competitive advantage in the war for talent.

Working outside deserves its place as a third work mode in addition to working at the office and at home. The fact that office tenants often look for office space with lots of natural daylight, view of greenery and healthy air confirms the desire for that healthy work environment. As a result, outdoor workspaces are becoming increasingly popular.

Working outside, how to go about it?

First and foremost, a thorough analysis of the existing situation is required. What is the current conference culture like at your company? What physical possibilities does your office environment offer for working outside? What about sunlight and what direction does the wind usually come from? The second step is to determine what kind of workstation best fits the tasks of your employees. Only then can the tailoring begin. We are happy to help. Feel free to enlist our help and expertise.

Practical checklist

Are you eager to head out with your laptop, table and chair? These tips will help you create an excellent outdoor work environment:

• Create spots with enough privacy. With natural fencing, for example.
• Provide enough shade and shielding from sun and rain.
• Offer technical facilities (power sockets, wi-fi, etc.).
• Choose furniture suitable for outdoor use with a maintenance-friendly finish.
• Opt for round tables to promote collaboration. Go for a cheerful colour to stimulate creativity.
• Install a cosy lounge corner for relaxing and breaks.
• Are you about to renovate or build a new commercial property? Grab this opportunity to integrate the outdoor area into your office environment from the start.

Allow your employees’ summer vibes to flourish. Explore your options to turn your outdoor area into a permanent fixture. An expert in office interior, we are happy to help you get started. Contact us today for more information or an informal introductory chat.

Fun fact

Which American president used to work outside regularly? Former president Barack Obama practiced weeting: walking + meeting. He would venture out into the yard of the White House with a certain problem in mind. After a wholesome and refreshing walk, he would make his decision.