Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of remote workers is on an increase. What’s more, the crisis is likely to cause a permanent shift towards telecommuting. However, many people who thought that working from home is way better than working at a regular office now want to go back to their cubicles.
While it does come with numerous benefits, remote working also has its disadvantages. The biggest of these is that you have to deal with constant distractions and interruptions. And, with no boss around, it’s much easier to fall behind schedules.
Fortunately, there’s a simple solution to this problem, and it’s called a garden home office. By building a small log cabin in your garden and outfitting it as a home office, you’ll be free of distractions and able to focus on your work.
Here’s a short guide on how to plan a garden home office that will boost your productivity:
Check Planning Permission Requirements
First things first – just like with all other construction projects, you’ll have to take planning permission requirements into account.
In Ireland, the law is clear and simple – you won’t need permission in case your garden home office won’t be taller than 3.9 meters and larger than 25 square meters.
In case you live somewhere else, make sure to check your local laws concerning planning permissions. You can’t leave this to your contractor – it’s as simple as that.
Find the Right Balance Between Cost and Quality
Once you obtain the necessary permissions, the next thing you’ll have to do is find the right balance between cost and quality.
A good solution would be a log cabin that won’t take up your whole garden but will still be big enough to house all of your working equipment. Something simple, with a low construction cost, is likely to meet all of your needs.
The lifespan of a log cabin is not something you should worry about. In fact, these kinds of buildings typically outlive their owners, especially when they’re built by professionals who use the right materials.
Consider the Size
Next up, you’ll have to consider the size of your garden home office. How much space do you actually need?
As mentioned above, something that’s not too big or too small is usually the best choice. However, maybe you’ll want something bigger. Are you planning on holding meetings? Do you need extra space for storage? Take these considerations into account.
Also, keep in mind that a garden home office shouldn’t only boost your productivity, but should also be comfortable to spend time in. Therefore, consider adding a toilet and plumbing – with these, you’ll be entirely independent of your home.
Take Care of Insulation and Heating
Another important consideration is which type of insulation and heating you’ll be using in your new garden office.
It goes without saying, but a building such as this one needs to be comfortable during every season. Fortunately, you should be able to take care of both cold and warm weather by installing suitable heating and ventilation.
If you want your garden office to retain as much heat as possible during winter, remember that the key is in insulation. Also, keep in mind that log cabins retain more heat than the block or brick-constructed buildings and that they can be fitted with all standard forms of heating.
Make Your Garden Office Safe and Secure
With your garden home office housing all kinds of valuable equipment, make sure to consider your security needs.
In other words, the doors and windows of your log cabin should have locks. Establishing a security routine is very important – keep your stuff safe by locking the office every time you leave it.
Another security measure you may want to consider is the installation of an alarm and a PIR light. A simple gravel path can be of great help, too – it will make noise in case of unwanted intruders. In addition, keep in mind that you can always place your valuables in secure casings, or have them fastened to the walls.
The Aesthetics Are Important, Too
Never underestimate the importance of workplace aesthetics.
If you decide to build a home office in your garden, you’ll have a unique opportunity to combine great design with natural beauty. Try to make the best out of the relationship between your new home office and your garden.
If your budget allows you, build a garden office with a porch – it will come in very handy during hot summer months. Furthermore, make sure to maximize natural light by installing large, double-glazed windows
There’s nothing like a well-designed garden office. It’s your own, private little haven that keeps you free of distractions and allows you to focus on your work.
By planning ahead and taking into account the factors mentioned above, you’re bound to end up with a gorgeous garden office that will keep you happy and productive.
Michael has been working in marketing for almost a decade and has worked with a huge range of clients, which has made him knowledgeable on many different subjects. He has recently rediscovered a passion for writing and hopes to make it a daily habit. You can read more of Michael’s work at Qeedle.
